Virtual Manufacturing Engineer

Location: Tyn Llidiart, Tyn Llidiart Industrial Estate, Corwen, Denbighshire, LL21 9RR

Monday to Friday 8am – 5pm ~ Office based with local travel between sites as required ~ 33 days holiday per year

The Manufacturing Engineer plays a key role in driving continuous improvement across manufacturing operations, focusing on the development, implementation, and optimisation of processes to support safe, efficient, and cost-effective production.

The role involves:

• Analysing performance, improving quality, and working closely with production teams to achieve operational targets and enhance overall business performance.
• Developing and implementing manufacturing processes for new and existing products.
• Supporting production with technical problem solving and root cause analysis.
• Supporting continuous improvement initiatives to improve productivity, quality, and efficiency.
• Supporting new product introduction (NPI) and production ramp-up activities.
• Analysing production data and identifying opportunities for improvement.
• Working with quality teams to resolve manufacturing defects and implement corrective actions.

Key attributes include:

• A desire to learn and grow the role, with a “Can-Do” attitude and the ability to accept guidance on manufacturing engineering practices.
• A flexible and enthusiastic team player with a passion for problem solving.
• Computer literate and understanding of Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook etc).

Responsibilities:

• Working closely with Design, Manufacturing Engineers, Site Leaders, and Quality Engineers to deliver a Right First-Time solution.
• Having a practical understanding of Fabrication and Welding, including Weld Symbols and usage on drawings.
• Being experienced in the use of SolidWorks 3D CAD Software and the creation of Engineering Drawings.
• Willingness to travel between all sites to ensure a working process or procedure is delivered.
• Taking responsibility for identifying process improvement opportunities and delivering measurable manufacturing outcomes.
• Ensuring engineering changes and improvements are implemented effectively and sustained in production.
• Acting promptly to resolve process, quality, and efficiency issues within manufacturing operations.

Quality & Right First Time Mindset:

• Promoting high standards in process design, validation, and control to achieve right-first-time manufacture.
• Applying root cause analysis techniques to eliminate defects and prevent recurrence.
• Ensuring all process improvements support product quality, compliance, and customer requirements.
• Actively engaging on the shop floor, supporting production and understanding real-time process challenges.
• Applying Lean manufacturing and continuous improvement tools to develop practical engineering solutions.
• Balancing structured engineering methods with operational practicality to deliver effective outcomes.
• Continuously seeking opportunities to improve manufacturing efficiency, quality, and productivity.
• Challenging existing processes using engineering insight while valuing team experience and input.
• Using data analysis, KPIs, and performance metrics to drive informed decision-making and improvements.
• Delivering results in a fast-paced, multi-site manufacturing environment.
• Adapting engineering approaches to meet varying production needs and operational priorities.

Qualifications:

• Degree or HNC/HND in Manufacturing, or Manufacturing / Production Engineering (or equivalent experience).
• Good knowledge and experience in sheet metal and fabrication/welding.
• Experience in manufacturing or production environments.
• Knowledge of lean manufacturing principles.
• Experience using engineering drawings and manufacturing documentation.
• Experience using SolidWorks 3D CAD Software, that can be demonstrated at an interview.
• Extensive experience in the creation of Drawings generated from the 3D model that can be demonstrated at an interview.

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. 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.