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 33 days holiday, professional development, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Work in a dynamic environment with opportunities for growth and adventure in North Wales.
- 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 35000 - 45000 £ per year.
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 detailing what attracts you to this role, why you are applying, and what relevant experience you would bring to the position. 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: IWT
Ifor Williams Trailers is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and collaborative work culture that prioritises continuous improvement and professional development. With a commitment to quality and innovation, employees have the opportunity to lead impactful projects across diverse manufacturing sites in North Wales, all while enjoying a generous holiday allowance and a balanced work-life environment. The company's family-owned heritage ensures stability and a focus on employee well-being, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding careers.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Continuous Improvement Engineer
✨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 IWT, 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 Continuous Improvement Engineer
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 IWT 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 IWT
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with IWT, 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 IWT 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.
