At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist in new product introduction and optimise manufacturing processes.
- Company: Specialist manufacturing company with a friendly culture.
- Benefits: Flexible hours, 33 days leave, private medical insurance, and more.
- Other info: Enjoy a supportive environment with excellent career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Gain hands-on experience in engineering and make a real impact.
- Qualifications: Degree or HNC in Engineering and CAD experience required.
Location: Hailsham, East Sussex
Full‑time, Permanent – 37 hours per week
Competitive salary and excellent benefits.
Role Overview
Supported by a specialist manufacturing company, the Graduate Production Engineer will assist in New Product Introduction (NPI), manufacturing optimisation, CAD activities, process improvement and projects.
Key Responsibilities
- Support the NPI process and define manufacturing routes and processes
- Assist in optimising designs for manufacture, quality and efficiency
- Maintain and update BOMs, routes and production data within the ERP system
- Support the quoting process with technical input and cost estimation
- Identify process improvements and cost reduction opportunities
- Create and maintain work instructions and manufacturing documentation
- Support Engineering Change Notice (ECN) reviews and implementation of engineering changes
- Assist with root‑cause analysis and 8D/NCR investigations, supporting corrective actions
- Support CAD activities including 3D modelling and 2D production drawings
- Assist in the design of fixtures and manufacturing aids
- Contribute to DFMEA/PFMEA activities in line with PPAP processes
- Support customer and supplier technical queries
- Assist with training others on ERP systems and manufacturing processes
- Gain hands‑on knowledge of complex assemblies and precision manufacturing processes
Candidate Profile
- Degree or HNC in Engineering (or equivalent experience)
- Experience in an engineering or manufacturing environment
- CAD experience and proficiency in MS Office
- Hands‑on approach with the ability to build and assemble components
- Strong communication skills and willingness to learn
- Ability to work independently and as part of a wider engineering team
- Open‑mind, proactive and keen to develop within a technical environment
- Occasional travel to client sites may be required (planned in advance, expenses covered)
- Full driving licence required due to location
Benefits & Culture
- 37‑hour work week with flexible hours
- 33 days annual leave (25 days + bank holidays)
- Private medical insurance, annual health checks and eye care vouchers
- Life insurance and salary‑sacrifice pension scheme
- Salary sacrifice cycle‑to‑work and electric vehicle schemes
- Friendly culture with annual family fun day, Christmas dinner/dance and onsite facilities (canteen, lockers, shower)
Graduate Production Engineer in Hailsham employer: KHR - Recruitment Specialists
KHR - Recruitment Specialists is an excellent employer, offering a supportive and dynamic work environment in Aylesford. With competitive salaries, bonuses, and opportunities for professional development, we prioritise employee growth and well-being, ensuring that our team can thrive while making a meaningful impact in the lives of young people.
Contact Details:
KHR - Recruitment Specialists Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Graduate Production Engineer in Hailsham
✨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 KHR - Recruitment Specialists, 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 Graduate Production Engineer in Hailsham
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 KHR - Recruitment Specialists 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 KHR - Recruitment Specialists
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with KHR - Recruitment Specialists, 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 KHR - Recruitment Specialists 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.
