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Your chance to join the UK’s number one excavator supplier!
For over 50 years, Hitachi Construction Machinery (UK) has been a leading provider of construction equipment and solutions, renowned for excellence and innovation. With a global presence and commitment to sustainability, we deliver top-quality machinery that empowers our customers to succeed.
We are recruiting a Process Improvement Engineer at our Head Office in Hebburn who will lead the identification, design, and implementation of process optimisation projects across HCMUK’s manufacturing functions.
Benefits & Rewards:
- 25 days Annual Leave + Bank Holidays + option to purchase up to an additional 5 days
- Company Pension Scheme
- Critical Illness Cover
- Private Medical Insurance
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Death in Service
- Benefits Hub
- Cycle to Work Scheme
Responsibilities:
- Lead value stream mapping, process flow analyses, and Kaizen events to eliminate waste and reduce cycle times.
- Design, pilot, and implement process changes; validate improvements through metrics and sustainment plans
- Develop process control plans, failure mode effects analyses (FMEA), and poka-yoke solutions
- Project manage large scale CAPEX projects.
- Extract, analyse, and visualise production and quality data to uncover performance gaps and areas for opportunity.
- Perform advanced root cause analysis (5 Whys, fishbone, DMAIC) and propose corrective actions to re-occurring problems.
- Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and present regular performance reports to stakeholders.
- Create and update standard operating procedures (SOPs), machine guides, and work instructions with engineering accuracy.
- Ensure documentation adheres to regulatory and safety requirements and drives best‐practice consistency.
- Lead cross-functional improvement projects, managing scope, timeline, budget, and resource allocation
- Liaise with procurement, facilities, product development, and external suppliers to coordinate seamless implementation.
- Mentor and coach the Process Improvement Assistant, fostering skill development and accountability.
- Provide lean and Six Sigma training and workshops to production and support teams.
- Champion a culture of experimentation, feedback, and iterative learning.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
Essential
- HNC / HND in Engineering, Manufacturing, or related discipline.
- Minimum 3-5 years’ experience in process engineering or continuous improvement within a manufacturing environment.
- Certified Six Sigma Green Belt (Black Belt preferred).
- Proven expertise with lean tools (5S, Kanban, SMED) and DMAIC methodology.
- Proficiency with data analysis software (e.g., Minitab, Power BI).
- Excellent project management and facilitation skills.
- Strong communication skills, with the ability to influence at all levels.
- Experience in project managing CAPEX projects.
Preferred
- Experience with ERP/MES systems (e.g., SAP) for process monitoring and optimisation.
- Prior success in leading multi-site or high-volume production improvement programs.
- Familiarity with health and safety legislation and compliance standards (Eg PUWER and applicable ISO standards).
Why Should You Apply?
A Process Improvement Engineer role at HCMUK is ideal for someone who enjoys identifying opportunities, solving problems, and creating smarter, more efficient ways of working. You’ll play a key part in improving operational performance, reducing waste, and shaping how the business continues to grow and innovate. It’s a role where your ideas genuinely matter and where you can see the positive impact of your work across the organisation.
Joining HCMUK means stepping into a culture that actively supports improvement, collaboration, and new ways of thinking. You’ll be part of a team that values curiosity and empowers you to experiment, refine processes, and drive meaningful change. It’s an environment where your ideas are welcomed, your development is encouraged, and your contributions make a visible difference—making it an excellent place to build a fulfilling and future‑focused career in process improvement.
*You will be contacted within 14 working days to discuss your application if your application meets the essential criteria for this role. If you are not contacted within that time, please assume your application has been unsuccessful on this occasion.
Process Improvement Engineer in Hebburn employer: Hitachi Construction Machinery (UK)
At Hitachi Construction Machinery (UK), we pride ourselves on being a leading employer in the construction equipment sector, offering a vibrant work culture that fosters collaboration and innovation. As a HCT Technical Support Engineer, you'll benefit from extensive training opportunities, a strong commitment to work-life balance, and a supportive team environment that values your contributions. Join us in Hebburn, where you can grow your career while working with cutting-edge technology and making a meaningful impact in the industry.
Contact Details:
Hitachi Construction Machinery (UK) Recruitment Team
