NPI Manufacturing Engineer (Tooling & CNC)
Location: Sutton-in-Ashfield, Nottinghamshire
Contract Type: PAYE Contract
Rate: Competitive Hourly Rate (DOE)
Hours: Full Time, 40hrs per week
About Our Client
Our client is a leading manufacturer of specialist industrial and marine safety equipment, supplying products to customers across a range of highly regulated industries worldwide.
Due to continued growth and investment in new product development, they are seeking an experienced NPI Manufacturing Engineer to support the introduction of new products into production and drive improvements in manufacturing processes, tooling and machining operations.
The Role
This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced Manufacturing Engineer or Tooling Engineer with a strong CNC machining and machine shop background.
Working closely with Production, Quality, Operations and external suppliers, you will play a key role in bringing new products into manufacture. You will be responsible for developing manufacturing methods, designing and improving jigs, fixtures and workholding solutions, supporting CNC machining activities, and ensuring robust production processes are established from prototype through to volume manufacture.
This role would suit someone who is equally comfortable on the shop floor as they are in front of a CAD workstation, with a practical understanding of machining, tooling and manufacturing best practice.
Key Responsibilities
New Product Introduction (NPI)
- Support the introduction of new products and components into manufacturing.
- Review engineering drawings and CAD models to determine the most effective manufacturing methods.
- Develop and implement manufacturing processes from prototype through to production release.
- Carry out Design for Manufacture (DFM) reviews and provide feedback to engineering teams.
- Identify manufacturing risks and implement practical solutions.
- Support production trials and process validation activities.
Tooling, Fixtures & Manufacturing Engineering
- Design and develop jigs, fixtures, tooling, workholding solutions and assembly aids using 3D CAD software.
- Create engineering drawings and manufacturing documentation for tooling and fixtures.
- Develop practical manufacturing solutions that improve safety, efficiency, quality and repeatability.
- Work closely with CNC programmers, machinists and production teams to optimise machining processes.
- Liaise with suppliers regarding tooling, fixtures and subcontract machining requirements.
Manufacturing Support & Continuous Improvement
- Provide day-to-day support for CNC machining and manufacturing operations.
- Investigate and resolve production issues using root cause analysis techniques.
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on productivity, quality and cost reduction.
- Support PFMEA, process validation and continuous improvement activities.
- Assist with introducing lean manufacturing and best practice engineering solutions.
Skills & Experience
Essential
- HNC/HND, Apprenticeship or equivalent experience in Manufacturing Engineering, Production Engineering or Mechanical Engineering.
- Strong manufacturing engineering background within a machining environment.
- Experience supporting CNC machining operations, including milling and turning.
- Experience designing jigs, fixtures, tooling or workholding solutions.
- Competent user of 3D CAD software.
- Ability to interpret engineering drawings, tolerances and GD&T.
- Strong understanding of machining processes, tooling selection and manufacturing methodologies.
- Practical problem-solving skills with a hands-on engineering approach.
- Experience working closely with production and machine shop teams.
Desirable
- Apprentice-trained engineer with machine shop experience.
- Experience within low-volume/high-complexity manufacturing environments.
- CAD/CAM knowledge including SolidWorks, Autodesk Inventor, Siemens NX, Mastercam or Edgecam.
- Knowledge of 4-axis and 5-axis machining.
- Experience supporting NPI and product transfer into production.
- Understanding of Lean Manufacturing, PFMEA and FAI activities.
Security Requirements
Due to the nature of the role, candidates must be eligible to live and work in the UK and be willing to undergo a DBS check
NPI Manufacturing Engineer (Tooling & CNC) employer: Matchtech Group
Matchtech is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that prioritises employee wellbeing and professional growth. With a strong focus on the rail sector in Winnersh, employees benefit from comprehensive support, flexible working options, and exciting team incentives, all while contributing to significant infrastructure developments in Ireland. Join a dedicated team where your contributions are valued, and you can thrive in a dynamic environment that fosters both personal and career advancement.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land NPI Manufacturing Engineer (Tooling & CNC)
✨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 Matchtech Group, 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 Matchtech Group 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 Matchtech Group
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Matchtech Group, 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 Matchtech Group 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.
