At a Glance
- Tasks: Enhance manufacturing processes for electrical power systems and ensure quality standards.
- Company: Join Legrand, a leader in innovative electrical solutions.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth, and hands-on experience in a dynamic environment.
- Other info: Collaborative team culture with opportunities for professional development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on manufacturing operations and drive innovation in electrical systems.
- Qualifications: Degree in engineering and 3+ years in manufacturing/process engineering required.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Legrand has an exciting opportunity for a Manufacturing Engineer III to join the Data Center Power and Control Starline Team in Reading, UK. The Manufacturing Engineer – Electrical Power Systems will support and improve Starline’s manufacturing operations for busway plugs, feeds, and track bar/straight products. The role combines hands‑on process engineering with strong knowledge of low‑voltage power systems (breakers, fuses, protection devices, wiring/termination, and test). The engineer will drive safety, quality, throughput, and right‑first‑time performance through robust processes, tooling/fixtures, work instructions, test integration, and structured problem solving.
What Will You Do?
- Own and improve assembly processes for busway plugs, feeds, and track bar/straight products, including wiring, termination, and integration of protection components.
- Develop, maintain, and improve standard work and visual work instructions (station‑based), including critical checks, torque specifications, and acceptance criteria.
- Read and interpret electrical engineering drawings/schematics (wiring diagrams, connection tables, terminal plans) and translate them into safe, repeatable shop‑floor build standards.
- Validate BOM accuracy for electrical content (correct parts, alternates, variants/options, revision control); identify and drive closure of drawing/BOM discrepancies ahead of build.
- Specify, validate, and standardize wiring and electrical assembly tooling (torque tools, crimp tools/applicators, presses, label/traceability devices) and ensure calibration/verification routines are in place.
- Design or commission fixtures and error‑proofing aids (harness boards, poka‑yoke fixtures, point‑of‑use tool setups, material presentation carts) to improve repeatability and reduce variation.
- Support and improve test cell processes for 100% tested products by strengthening upstream controls and test readiness (e.g., continuity/functional/insulation testing where applicable).
- Lead root cause analysis (4M/5‑Why) for electrical defects and test failures; implement containment and permanent corrective actions to prevent recurrence.
- Support engineering changes (ECO/deviations) by ensuring drawings, BOMs, routings, work instructions, and test requirements remain aligned and released correctly.
- Provide hands‑on shop‑floor support to resolve daily production issues quickly and improve stability; partner closely with Production, Quality, Test, Maintenance, Engineering, and Supply Chain.
- Conduct time studies and apply Lean principles (standard work, visual management, 5S, error proofing) to reduce waste and improve throughput and delivery reliability.
Qualifications
- Degree in Electrical Engineering, Manufacturing/Industrial Engineering, Electromechanical Engineering, or a related discipline.
- 3+ years’ experience in manufacturing/process engineering for electrical products (wiring/termination, power components, and production test).
- Strong practical knowledge of low‑voltage power systems and components (breakers, fuses, protective devices, earthing/grounding, insulation handling, creepage/clearance awareness).
- Proven ability to read and apply electrical drawings and product documentation, and to work effectively with BOM‑driven builds (variants/options, alternates, revisions).
- Experience specifying and using electrical assembly and verification tools (torque, crimp, presses, test equipment) and improving process capability.
- Experience in a high‑mix assembly environment is preferred (busway, switchgear, panel build, power distribution products).
- Familiarity with Lean/CI tools; awareness of workmanship standards (e.g., IPC/WHMA‑A‑620 concepts) is a plus.
- Experience with digital work instructions/MES (eFlex or similar) and basic data analysis (Excel/Power BI) is beneficial.
Skills and Competencies
- Structured problem solver with strong attention to detail; able to drive actions to closure and prevent repeat issues.
- Able to convert engineering intent into clear, practical, visual work instructions and quality checks.
- Hands‑on aptitude for shop‑floor troubleshooting; comfortable spending time on the line with operators and team leads.
- Strong safety and quality mindset for electrical builds; understands the importance of critical‑to‑quality characteristics.
- Strong communication and stakeholder management across Production, Quality, Test, Maintenance, Engineering, and Supply Chain.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel/PowerPoint); comfortable working with data and basic reporting.
Working Conditions and Physical Requirements
- May require exposure to the manufacturing areas where personal protective equipment (safety glasses, mandatory hearing protection) is required.
- Ability to stand for prolonged periods of time.
- Able to lift and carry up to 25 lbs.
Equal Opportunity Employer.
Manufacturing Engineer in Reading employer: Legrand, North America
Legrand is an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture, particularly within the Data Center Power and Control Starline Team in Reading, UK. Employees benefit from hands-on experience in manufacturing engineering, opportunities for professional growth, and a commitment to safety and quality, making it an ideal environment for those passionate about electrical power systems and process improvement.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Manufacturing Engineer in Reading
✨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 Legrand, North America, 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 Manufacturing Engineer in Reading
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 Legrand, North America 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 Legrand, North America
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Legrand, North America, 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 Legrand, North America 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.
