Your Impact We have an exciting opportunity for a Senior or Principal Manufacturing Engineer to join our team on the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP). The Global Combat Air Programme is a Multinational Initiative led by the UK, Japan and Italy to jointly develop a sixth-generation stealth fighter. We are looking for someone with a robust background in manufacturing engineering, preferably experienced in NPI (New Product Introduction) and Electro-Optics. If you are enthusiastic about manufacturing, innovation, and ready to take on exciting challenges, we want to hear from you. This is your chance to be part of a forward-thinking team that is setting new standards in manufacturing excellence from the ground up. Join us and help shape the future of the GCAP program through your dedication and expertise. You will join the team to develop, improve and support the operations manufacturing processes and equipment enabling world class production of Leonardo products. You will be responsible for developing robust solutions, considering the impact of their work on broader project issues. You will be expected to plan and deliver your own work and provide complex technical advice to both internal and external customers and will be responsible for developing others. Leonardo is an international leader in the development of cutting-edge sensor products deployed across a wide range of airborne platforms. Pushing the boundaries of technology, accuracy, and safety in engineering globally.
Leonardo is an international leader in the development of cutting‑edge sensor products deployed across a wide range of airborne platforms. Pushing the boundaries of technology, accuracy, and safety in engineering globally.
The role will be based in Edinburgh and will be primarily on‑site.
What you will do as a Principal Manufacturing Engineer
In this role, you will be responsible for the smooth transition of our new products from design into manufacture and will lead front‑end manufacturing engineering activities, from providing DFx input (primarily design for manufacturing, assembly &test) into the design, to solving production capability issues. Your skills will help to ensure that new products are introduced into operations in a timely, efficient, cost effective and accurate manner. Develop manufacturing processes by studying product requirements; researching, designing, modifying, and testing manufacturing methods and equipment; understanding feedback from Leonardo operators, conferring with equipment vendors or external suppliers. To prepare for and organise Manufacturing Maturity Reviews, maintain governance through the Lifecycle Management process and create/ contribute/ review and/or lead Manufacturing Plans. Review manufacturing documentation can include input to process specific risk assessments, COSHH data, technical reports, specification. Assure product and process quality by designing methods; validation/verification of process capabilities; establishing standards; confirming manufacturing processes. Contribute to failure investigations utilising known problem‑solving techniques (e.g. 8D). Identify continuous improvement activities to develop skills and competencies within Manufacturing Engineering. Complete improvement and development projects by training and interacting with the organisations manufacturing engineer community. Opportunities to Travel UK/Worldwide (Supplier visits). You will be provided with a wealth of development opportunities in both virtual and applied working environments. At Leonardo we value individuals who continuously demonstrate a dedication to their personal development.
We have partnered with Coursera, the world leading online training platform that offers around 4,000 courses you can sign up to, according to your professional and personal interests. Self‑directed learning thrives in this environment.
What you’ll bring
- Essential – Manufacturing engineering ability, either through qualification HNC, or equivalent experience and knowledge
- Desirable – HND or above in an engineering related discipline
- Confidence and ability to challenge / respond to technical / process issues
- Understanding of Advanced Product Quality Planning APQP methodologies and tools (PFMEA, Guage studies, Design of experiments), New Product Introduction, and familiarity with risk assessment and root cause analysis techniques.
- Ability to influence and negotiate with others using data and analysis to support line of reasoning
- Ability to take ownership of a work package; planning and scheduling own workload
- Ability to communicate concepts in a non‑technical way
- Been involved in capability and / or process development, demonstrating an ability to implement a change to working practices
- Knowledge and experience of multiple phases of the Product Life Cycle and the associated processes.
Security Clearance
This role is open to UK nationals only and is subject to pre‑employment screening in line with the UK Government’s Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS). An additional range of Personnel Security Controls referred to as National Security Vetting (NSV) shall apply, including meeting the eligibility requirements for The Security Check (SC) or Developed Vetting (DV). For more information and guidance please visit: https://careers.uk.leonardo.com/gb/en/security-and-vetting
Why join us
At Leonardo, our people are at the heart of everything we do. We offer a comprehensive, company‑funded benefits package that supports your wellbeing, career development, and work‑life balance. Whether you're looking to grow professionally, care for your health, or plan for the future, we’re here to help you thrive.
- Time to Recharge: Enjoy generous leave with the opportunity to accrue up to 12 additional flexi‑days each year.
- Secure your Future: Benefit from our award‑winning pension scheme with up to 15% employer contribution.
- Your Wellbeing Matters: Free access to mental health support, financial advice, and employee‑led networks championing inclusion and diversity (Enable, Pride, Equalise, Armed Forces, Carers, Wellbeing and Ethnicity).
- Rewarding Performance: All employees at management level and below are eligible for our bonus scheme.
- Never Stop Learning: Free access to 4,000+ online courses via Coursera and LinkedIn Learning.
- Refer a friend: Receive a financial reward through our referral programme.
Tailored Perks
Spend up to £500 annually on flexible benefits including private healthcare, dental, family cover, tech & lifestyle discounts, gym memberships and more.
Flexible working
Flexible hours with hybrid working options. For part time opportunities, please talk to us about what might be possible for this role.
Leonardo UK operates a grade‑based salary framework with broad bands
The salary range shown reflects the approved grade band for this role, or a narrower hiring range published within that band, and is bench marked against the external market. Exceptions above the standard range are managed through governance controls to protect internal equity. For a full list of our company benefits please visit our website.
Leonardo is a global leader in Aerospace, Defence, and Security. Headquartered in Italy, we employ over 53,000 people worldwide including 8,500 across 9 sites in the UK. Our employees are not just part of a team—they are key contributors to shaping innovation, advancing technology, and enhancing global safety.
At Leonardo we are committed to building an inclusive, accessible, and welcoming workplace. We believe that a diverse workforce sparks creativity, drives innovation, and leads to better outcomes for our people and our customers. If you have any accessibility requirements to support you during the recruitment process, just let us know.
#LI-KG1 Primary Location: GB - Edinburgh Contract Type: Permanent Hybrid Working: Onsite International, multicultural, innovative, technological: this is Leonardo. The company’s passionate and talented team is strongly influenced by STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) expertise, with a diverse range of experience that enables colleagues to share knowledge and know‑how across the generations. Leonardo always wants to expand its talent pool, here you can find the right opportunity for you!
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Senior / Principal Manufacturing Engineer employer: Leonardo S.p.A.
Leonardo UK is an exceptional employer, offering a collaborative and innovative work culture that empowers employees to tackle complex technical challenges in the aerospace sector. With generous benefits including a robust pension scheme, flexible working options, and extensive learning opportunities, employees are encouraged to grow and thrive in their careers while contributing to meaningful projects that enhance global safety. Located in Edinburgh, this role provides a unique chance to be part of a diverse team dedicated to shaping the future of technology.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior / Principal Manufacturing 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 Leonardo S.p.A., 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 Leonardo S.p.A. 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 Leonardo S.p.A.
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Leonardo S.p.A., 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 Leonardo S.p.A. 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.
