Salary: Competitive Salary
Contract Type: Full Time
Working Pattern: Permanent
The Opportunity - Manufacturing Engineer
About the role:
We’re looking for a Manufacturing Engineer who is responsible for developing, implementing and continuously improving manufacturing processes, equipment, tooling and production methods that ensure the safe, efficient and cost-effective manufacture of JCB products. This role supports current production, introduces new products, improves quality, reduces costs and drives operational excellence across the manufacturing facility. Working closely with cross-functional teams, you’ll play a key role in ensuring manufacturing processes deliver high standards of safety, quality, productivity and delivery performance.
What does this role involve day to day?
- Develop and maintain manufacturing processes, work instructions and standard operating procedures.
- Support new product introduction (NPI) activities, ensuring products are designed for efficient manufacture and assembly.
- Lead continuous improvement initiatives focused on safety, quality, productivity, delivery and cost reduction.
- Identify and implement process improvements to reduce waste, improve labour efficiency and increase equipment utilisation.
- Design and specify production tooling, fixtures, jigs and assembly aids.
- Conduct time studies and line balancing activities to optimise manufacturing flow and resource utilisation.
- Investigate manufacturing issues and implement robust corrective and preventive actions.
- Support capital investment projects, including justification, specification, installation and commissioning of new equipment.
- Work closely with Design Engineering, Quality, Operations, Maintenance, Purchasing and Logistics teams to resolve manufacturing challenges.
- Develop manufacturing layouts and material flow solutions to improve operational performance.
- Ensure manufacturing processes comply with health, safety, environmental and quality requirements.
- Support PFMEA, Control Plans, risk assessments and process validation activities.
- Analyse production data and KPIs to identify improvement opportunities and drive performance gains.
- Support supplier development activities where manufacturing processes impact product quality or delivery performance.
- Participate in problem‑solving activities using structured methodologies such as 8D, Six Sigma, Lean Manufacturing and Root Cause Analysis.
This will be suited to you if…
- You hold a Degree or HNC/HND in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline.
- You have experience within a manufacturing or assembly environment.
- You have a strong understanding of Lean Manufacturing principles.
- You have experience of process improvement and problem‑solving techniques.
- You can interpret engineering drawings and specifications.
- You have knowledge of production planning and manufacturing systems.
- You possess excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
- You have strong analytical and data-driven decision‑making capability.
- You demonstrate a strong safety‑first mindset.
- You take ownership and accountability for results.
- You continuously seek opportunities to improve processes and performance.
- You work collaboratively across functions and departments.
- You use data and facts to support decision‑making.
- You show resilience and flexibility in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
Even better if…
- You have experience within the heavy equipment, automotive or off‑highway vehicle industry.
- You have knowledge of APQP, PFMEA and quality management systems.
- You have experience of automated assembly systems and robotics.
- You have an understanding of ERP systems such as SAP.
- You hold a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or equivalent qualification.
- You have project management experience.
Success in this role will be measured through safety performance, manufacturing cost reduction, labour productivity improvement, quality defect reduction, equipment and process uptime, on‑time delivery performance, successful delivery of NPI programmes and continuous improvement project completion.
What happens next?
Ordinarily, our Resourcing Team reviews and shortlists CVs. If shortlisted, you’ll speak to one of our Recruiters to discuss the role further. Our interview process usually consists of an initial team’s interview followed by an in‑person interview. We’ll keep in touch throughout the process but if you have any questions, please get in touch at recruitment@jcb.com
What’s in it for you?
This is your chance to join a company that values expertise not only in rewards but also in real employee care. At JCB you don’t just get a competitive salary, 33 days’ holiday and access to our company pension—you can also use our onsite gym, in‑house doctor and dentist. We have an ULEV car scheme available for our employees too. Then there’s the JCB Rewards Hub, which gives you discounts with high street retailers. Feel like biking to work? There’s our Cycle to Work Scheme.
We value diversity and welcome applications from candidates from all backgrounds.
We’re committed to ensuring our recruitment process is fair and inclusive. If you face any accessibility challenges with your online application and require additional support, you have the option of speaking to a member of our Recruitment Team who can support you to complete an application in an alternative format. If you would benefit from this support, please email recruitment@jcb.com, and a member of the team will be in touch.
Recruitment Agencies: JCB does not accept any speculative approaches to present candidates for advertised vacancies.
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Manufacturing Engineer in Leek employer: JCB
At JCB World Parts Centre, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. As an Inventory Controller, you will enjoy a competitive salary, generous holiday allowance, and access to unique benefits such as an onsite gym, in-house medical services, and a Cycle to Work Scheme, all within a collaborative and fast-paced environment that fosters teamwork and continuous improvement.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Manufacturing Engineer in Leek
✨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 JCB, 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!
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 JCB 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 JCB
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with JCB, 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 JCB 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.
