At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead exciting projects to improve manufacturing processes and boost productivity.
- Company: Join Ifor Williams Trailers, a family-owned business with a strong heritage.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, 33 days holiday, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Work in a dynamic environment with stunning North Wales scenery nearby.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by driving meaningful change across multiple sites.
- Qualifications: Experience in Continuous Improvement or Manufacturing Engineering is essential.
The predicted salary is between 42000 - 42000 € per year.
Location: North Wales (Multi-site travel required)
Salary: Up to £42,000 dependant on experience.
Summary:
- Monday to Friday 8am – 5pm
- Office based with local travel between sites as required
- 33 days holiday per year
About the role
As a Continuous Improvement Engineer, you will play a key role in identifying, analysing, and delivering process improvements across multiple manufacturing sites. Working closely with Site Leaders, Production Teams, Quality, Engineering, and Planning functions, you will lead structured improvement initiatives that enhance productivity, reduce waste, improve quality, and strengthen overall operational performance. This is a hands-on role requiring strong analytical capability, practical implementation skills, and the ability to influence and engage teams across the business.
What you will be responsible for:
- Lead continuous improvement projects across manufacturing and operational areas
- Identify inefficiencies using data analysis, observation, and root cause analysis techniques
- Implement Lean manufacturing principles and structured problem-solving methodologies
- Facilitate Kaizen events, improvement workshops, and review sessions
- Drive waste reduction initiatives across time, materials, process, and defects
- Monitor KPIs and support performance improvement strategies
- Conduct time studies and process mapping activities
- Collaborate cross-functionally to deliver sustainable process improvements
- Standardise best practices across multiple sites
- Support Quality and Operations teams in resolving recurring issues
- Report progress, savings, and performance improvements to Senior Management
What we are looking for:
- Proven experience in a Continuous Improvement, Process Engineering, or Manufacturing Engineering role
- Strong knowledge of Lean, Six Sigma, or similar improvement methodologies
- Experience within a fast-paced manufacturing environment
- Practical understanding of production processes and manufacturing technologies
- Strong analytical and data-driven mindset
- Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills
- Ability to challenge existing processes constructively and professionally
- Proficient in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel
- Willingness and flexibility to travel between North Wales sites
The behaviours that matter most:
- Ownership & Accountability: Takes personal responsibility for identifying improvement opportunities and delivering measurable results. Follows through on actions, ensuring improvements are embedded and sustained. Acts decisively when performance, quality, or efficiency issues arise.
- Quality & Right‑First‑Time Mindset: Champions high standards in process design, execution, and control. Focuses on eliminating root causes rather than treating symptoms. Ensures improvements support product quality, safety, and customer expectations.
- Practical & Hands‑On Approach: Works comfortably on the shop floor, engaging directly with processes and people. Translates Lean and CI tools into simple, workable solutions that fit a manufacturing environment. Balances structured methodology with pragmatism and operational reality.
- Collaborative Working: Builds strong working relationships with site leadership, production teams, and support functions. Involves operators and stakeholders in improvement activity to drive ownership and engagement. Communicates clearly, openly, and professionally at all levels of the business.
- Continuous Improvement Focus: Demonstrates curiosity and a desire to find better, more efficient ways of working. Challenges existing processes constructively while respecting experience and knowledge. Uses data, KPIs, and evidence to drive decisions and measure success.
- Pace, Resilience & Adaptability: Maintains momentum in a fast‑paced, multi‑site manufacturing environment. Adapts approach to suit different teams, sites, and operational priorities. Responds positively to change and overcomes resistance with persistence and professionalism.
Desirable Qualifications:
- Degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, or a related discipline
- Lean / Six Sigma certification (Green Belt or above)
- Experience with value stream mapping and advanced process optimisation tools
Why IWT:
Ifor Williams Trailers is a family‑owned business with a strong heritage, long‑term stability, and a clear commitment to continuous improvement. Founded in 1958 and operating across five advanced manufacturing sites in North Wales, we offer the scale, complexity, and operational depth to genuinely challenge and develop improvement professionals. This role provides the opportunity to work across diverse manufacturing operations, including assembly, fabrication, finishing, and process‑led environments, giving real breadth and impact. As a Continuous Improvement Engineer, you will have the visibility, authority, and support to drive meaningful change and embed best practice across multiple sites. We invest in our people, offering genuine opportunities for professional development, exposure to senior leadership, and the chance to make a measurable difference in a business that values quality, practicality, and long‑term improvement. North Wales also offers an outstanding quality of life, with the coast and Eryri (Snowdonia) on the doorstep and Liverpool and Manchester just over an hour away.
How to apply:
Send your CV and a one-page covering note what attracts you to this role, why you are applying, and what relevant experience you would bring to HR@iwt.co.uk. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to a site visit and a multi-stage competency-based interview. We will be in touch with all applicants and thank you in advance for taking the time to apply.
Continuous Improvement Engineer employer: Ifor Williams Trailers Ltd
Ifor Williams Trailers is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and collaborative work culture that prioritises continuous improvement and professional development. With a strong commitment to quality and innovation, employees have the opportunity to engage in meaningful projects across multiple manufacturing sites in North Wales, all while enjoying a healthy work-life balance and the stunning natural beauty of the region. The company values its people, providing them with the authority and resources to drive impactful change, making it an ideal place for those looking to grow their careers in a dynamic environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Continuous Improvement Engineer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees at Ifor Williams Trailers on LinkedIn or through mutual connections. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions related to continuous improvement and Lean methodologies. We recommend using the STAR method to structure your answers – it’s all about showcasing your experience effectively!
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your analytical skills! Bring examples of how you've used data analysis to drive improvements in past roles. This will demonstrate your hands-on approach and ability to influence teams.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of the Ifor Williams family.
We think you need these skills to ace Continuous Improvement Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Continuous Improvement Engineer role. Highlight your relevant experience, especially in Lean and Six Sigma methodologies, and showcase any hands-on projects you've led.
Craft a Compelling Covering Note:Your covering note is your chance to shine! Explain why you're excited about this role and how your skills align with what we're looking for. Keep it concise but impactful!
Showcase Your Analytical Skills:Since this role requires strong analytical capabilities, be sure to mention specific examples where you've used data analysis or problem-solving techniques to drive improvements in previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ifor Williams Trailers Ltd
✨Know Your Lean Principles
Brush up on your knowledge of Lean and Six Sigma methodologies. Be ready to discuss how you've applied these principles in past roles, especially in a manufacturing context. This will show that you understand the core of what the Continuous Improvement Engineer role is all about.
✨Prepare for Data-Driven Questions
Since this role requires strong analytical skills, expect questions that assess your ability to analyse data and identify inefficiencies. Prepare examples where you've used data analysis to drive improvements, and be ready to explain your thought process clearly.
✨Showcase Your Hands-On Experience
This position is practical and hands-on, so be prepared to share specific instances where you've engaged directly with processes on the shop floor. Highlight any Kaizen events or workshops you've facilitated, as well as how you’ve collaborated with teams to implement changes.
✨Demonstrate Strong Communication Skills
Effective communication is key in this role, especially when engaging with various stakeholders. Practice articulating your ideas clearly and confidently. Think of examples where you've successfully communicated complex concepts to non-technical team members.
