At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead manufacturing processes and drive continuous improvement in aerospace operations.
- Company: Join Independent Forgings and Alloys, a top aerospace manufacturing company in Sheffield.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 33 days holiday, pension scheme, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Long-term career growth in a dynamic and advanced manufacturing environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in aerospace manufacturing with cutting-edge technology and processes.
- Qualifications: Degree in Engineering and experience in aerospace manufacturing required.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
Independent Forgings and Alloys (IFA), one of Europe's leading aerospace forging and precision manufacturing companies, is expanding and looking to recruit a Lead Manufacturing Engineer to join its Sheffield-based team. This is an excellent opportunity for a Lead Manufacturing Engineer to join a highly respected aerospace manufacturing organisation. Working at the interface of Production, Quality and Metallurgy, the successful candidate will play a critical role in improving process capability, product quality and operational performance across one of the most technically advanced forging operations in Europe.
As the Lead Manufacturing Engineer, you will be based at the Sheffield manufacturing facility, working closely with Quality, Production and Metallurgy teams to drive continuous improvement and operational excellence across aerospace manufacturing operations. The role will focus on improving manufacturing processes, investigating technical and quality issues, supporting customer requirements and ensuring products consistently meet demanding aerospace and engineering specifications.
A key requirement for this position is proven experience working within an aerospace manufacturing environment and a strong working knowledge of AS13100, including the deployment, management and continuous improvement of AS13100 requirements across manufacturing operations. You will be a key technical resource within the business, helping to improve process capability, product conformity and operational performance through data-driven decision making and engineering expertise. This position would suit an experienced engineer from a manufacturing environment with a strong background in quality improvement, process engineering, metallurgical processes or operational excellence.
Key Responsibilities- Act as the technical interface between Production, Quality and Metallurgy teams across the manufacturing operation
- Lead the deployment, compliance and continuous improvement of AS13100 requirements across manufacturing processes, ensuring adherence to aerospace customer expectations, quality standards and operational excellence objectives
- Lead investigations into manufacturing non-conformances, quality concerns and process deviations
- Conduct root cause analysis and implement corrective and preventive actions to improve performance
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on product quality, process capability and operational efficiency
- Support metallurgical investigations and process validation activities
- Analyse manufacturing and quality data to identify trends, risks and opportunities for improvement
- Develop and optimise manufacturing processes, procedures and controls
- Support customer quality requirements, audits and technical investigations
- Work closely with Quality Engineers and Metallurgists to ensure compliance with customer, aerospace and regulatory standards
- Support process risk assessments, FMEA activities and control plan development
- Participate in internal, customer and third-party audits
- Lead and support projects aimed at reducing waste, improving yield and enhancing manufacturing performance
- Provide technical support and guidance to production teams on process control and best practice
- Develop manufacturing documentation, technical procedures and process instructions
- Support new product introduction and manufacturing readiness activities
- Carry out any other reasonable duties as requested by management
- Degree qualified in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Metallurgy, Materials Engineering or a related discipline
- Proven experience within an aerospace manufacturing environment is essential
- Demonstrable experience working to AS13100 requirements within an aerospace manufacturing environment is essential
- Previous experience within forging, metals, steel, special alloys, machining or heavy manufacturing environments would be highly advantageous
- Strong understanding of manufacturing processes and quality systems
- Experience working closely with Quality and Metallurgy functions
- Proven track record of investigating manufacturing issues and implementing sustainable process improvements
- Strong root cause analysis and problem-solving skills
- Experience of process capability improvement and data analysis
- Knowledge of quality tools such as 8D, FMEA, SPC, APQP or similar methodologies
- Understanding of metallurgical processes, heat treatment or materials performance would be highly advantageous
- Experience supporting customer audits and technical investigations
- Starting salary between £45,000 - £55,000, depending on experience
- Permanent position with long-term career opportunities
- Training and professional development support
- Opportunity to work within an advanced aerospace manufacturing environment
- 33 days holiday
- Pension scheme with employer contribution
- Bonus scheme and Westfield cash plan
- On-site parking available
This position is being recruited exclusively by W Talent Recruitment, who will be conducting the first-stage pre-screen interview. Any questions, please contact Glyn Dobb at W Talent directly.
7 Jun 2026 2112_1780926513 Lead Manufacturing Engineer £45000 - £55000 per annum Sheffield, Sou[...] employer: Independent Forgings and Alloys Ltd
Independent Forgings and Alloys (IFA) is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Sheffield that fosters innovation and excellence in aerospace manufacturing. With a strong commitment to employee development, IFA provides extensive training opportunities, competitive salaries, and a comprehensive benefits package, including a pension scheme and bonus incentives. Joining IFA means becoming part of a respected team dedicated to quality and continuous improvement, where your contributions directly impact the success of critical aerospace applications.
Contact Details:
Independent Forgings and Alloys Ltd Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land 7 Jun 2026 2112_1780926513 Lead Manufacturing Engineer £45000 - £55000 per annum Sheffield, Sou[...]
✨Join Local Manufacturing Groups
Getting involved in local manufacturing groups or associations can seriously boost your visibility. These groups often have insider info on job openings and networking events, plus they help you connect with like-minded folks in the industry. Check out what's happening in your area!
✨Show Off Your Skills in Practical Spaces
Consider participating in workshops or open days at manufacturing companies. It's a great way to show off your hands-on skills in a real-world environment and can sometimes lead to job offers right on the spot. Keep an eye on announcements from local manufacturers for these opportunities!
✨Leverage the Power of Internships
While you're looking for full-time positions, don't underestimate the power of internships! Even if you don't see a direct role, securing an internship at a company can open doors to future jobs. Many manufacturing firms prefer to hire from their intern pool, so it's definitely worth considering.
✨Apply Directly Through Company Websites
When you find a role at a company you love, like Independent Forgings and Alloys Ltd, apply directly on their website. This way, you’re more likely to be noticed by the hiring team. Plus, showing that you took the time to seek out their application process highlights your genuine interest in the firm!
We think you need these skills to ace 7 Jun 2026 2112_1780926513 Lead Manufacturing Engineer £45000 - £55000 per annum Sheffield, Sou[...]
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In the manufacturing-production sector, it's crucial to highlight your technical skills and experience. Make sure your CV features any relevant qualifications, such as certifications in machinery operation or production management, and don’t forget about any specific systems or software you’re familiar with. This can really set you apart!
Emphasise Teamwork and Communication:Working in manufacturing often means being part of a larger team. Highlight your experience in collaborative projects or environments where communication was key. Maybe you have experience with lean manufacturing principles? Talk about how you worked with your team to improve productivity and maintain quality.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Company:Don’t just recycle an old cover letter! Take the time to tailor your cover letter to Independent Forgings and Alloys Ltd specifically. Mention what excites you about their production processes or products, and how your previous experiences can contribute to their goals. We want to see your enthusiasm for the role!
Use Concrete Examples of Your Achievements:When detailing your work experience, include measurable achievements that can demonstrate your impact. Whether it’s improving efficiency by a certain percentage or successfully leading a project, these specifics can make a huge difference. Numbers speak volumes in the manufacturing world!
How to prepare for a job interview at Independent Forgings and Alloys Ltd
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Independent Forgings and Alloys Ltd, brush up on the specific manufacturing processes relevant to the role. Understanding lean manufacturing principles or quality control techniques could give you a solid edge to discuss how you’d fit into their operations.
✨Technical Questions Are Key
Be prepared for technical questions around machinery, production scheduling, or materials handling. Make sure you can confidently explain how you've dealt with these in past experiences or internships. Knowing industry-specific software could also be a big plus!
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Manufacturing environments often focus on continuous improvement. Be ready to discuss specific instances where you’ve solved a production issue or implemented a process improvement. It’s all about demonstrating your analytical thinking and hands-on approach.
✨Align Your Values with Quality and Safety
In a full-time role, companies like Independent Forgings and Alloys Ltd value commitment to quality and safety. Be prepared to discuss how you prioritise these factors in your work. It’s about showing that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about contributing positively to their production environment.
