At a Glance
- Tasks: Join us as a Manufacturing Engineer to create cutting-edge defence products and improve processes.
- Company: NP Aerospace is a leader in armour technology, dedicated to saving lives in the defence sector.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, bonuses, generous holidays, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: This role requires signing the Official Secrets Act and passing security checks.
- Why this job: Be part of a mission-driven team that values innovation, collaboration, and making a real impact.
- Qualifications: Experience in manufacturing engineering and knowledge of Lean methodologies are essential.
Job Title: Manufacturing Engineer Location: Coventry, UK Core Hours: 08:00-16:35 (Mon–Thu) 08:00-15:10 (Fri). Vacancy Type: Full-time, Permanent – onsite Salary: £35,000 - £45,000 per annum About the role Want to see your engineering work translated directly into military vehicles? At NP Aerospace's Site 2 in Coventry, you'll join our Vehicle Systems operation, supporting the manufacture, integration and delivery of highly engineered military vehicle systems for critical defence programmes. We're looking for a Manufacturing Engineer who can bridge the gap between engineering design and what's actually happening on the shop floor. You'll work alongside production, engineering and quality teams to make sure vehicle components and assemblies can be manufactured efficiently, safely and consistently. From introducing new vehicle products and processes through to improving established manufacturing operations, you'll have a hands-on role in solving problems, improving processes and helping our teams deliver vehicles to the required quality, cost and schedule. If you're a practical Manufacturing Engineer who enjoys being close to production and wants to work on military vehicles where the end product genuinely matters, this could be the opportunity for you. What you’ll get in return At NP Aerospace, we know our success comes from our people. That’s why we invest in benefits that support your health, reward your hard work, and help you grow your career: * Performance rewards – discretionary bonus opportunities * Flex your day – flexible start and finish times (subject to manager approval and operational needs) * Time to recharge – 25 days’ holiday + 8 bank holidays, with the option to buy more through our Holiday Purchase Scheme * Support for Defence – two weeks’ paid leave for Reservists and Cadets, plus paid leave for Cadet Force Adult Volunteers (CFAVs) * Future security – competitive pension scheme (9% combined employer/employee contributions * Peace of mind – life cover at 3x base salary * Health & wellbeing first – BHSF Cash Healthcare Plan to support everyday health costs * Grow with us – career development and advancement opportunities within a global business * Supportive environment – a team culture built on innovation, collaboration, and purpose What you’ll be doing You'll lead manufacturing readiness activities for new vehicle products, including process design, work balancing, manufacturing instructions, PFMEA completion, process development and operator training. This gives you the opportunity to influence how new military vehicle products are brought into production from the outset. You'll work closely with Engineering, Operations and Programme teams, acting as the link between the design and manufacturing environments. You'll evaluate CAD models and engineering drawings, support production prototyping and initial production runs, and make sure vehicle products are practical to manufacture and assemble. You'll also improve the processes already being used on our military vehicle programmes. Using Lean techniques such as 5S, standard operations, line balancing and single-piece flow, you'll identify opportunities to improve productivity, reduce waste and optimise material usage. Working closely with tooling and equipment suppliers, you'll help ensure the right equipment and solutions are delivered to support vehicle programme deadlines. You'll also maintain accurate engineering BOMs, monitor manufacturing KPIs and support operators through training and process improvements. This is a role where you'll be expected to get involved, solve problems and spend time close to the manufacturing operation, rather than simply managing processes from a desk. What we’re looking for We're looking for an experienced Manufacturing Engineer who understands how engineering decisions affect what happens on the production floor. Essential * Proven experience as a Manufacturing Engineer across a variety of operational environments * Experience working with vehicles and fabrication * Strong understanding of Lean manufacturing concepts and methodologies * Practical experience applying problem-solving techniques such as 5 Whys, Ishikawa and 8D * Ability to interrogate CAD models and engineering drawings * A practical, hands-on approach to manufacturing engineering and continuous improvement * Experience working closely with production teams to improve manufacturing processes * Strong communication skills and the ability to work across Engineering, Operations, Quality and Programme teams Desirable * Degree or HNC qualification in a relevant engineering discipline * Experience in military vehicle, automotive, aerospace or defence manufacturing * Experience with manufacturing readiness, PFMEA and process development * Experience with CNC and press programming * Experience implementing Poka-Yoke solutions * Experience working with tooling and equipment suppliers * Knowledge of vehicle assembly and fabrication processes What do we do at NP Aerospace? NP Aerospace is a global leader in armour technology manufacturing and vehicle integration, delivering high-performance, lifesaving solutions for the defence and security industry. Our mission is to improve and protect lives, and our vision is to be a leading provider of innovative solutions that solve our customers' complex challenges. Our values - Respect, Collaboration, Integrity, and Dedication form the bedrock of our culture. Our extensive range of combat-proven body armour, from ballistic helmets, plates, and shields to bomb disposal suits, highlights some of the most advanced composite materials. With a team of R&D engineers working on next-generation solutions, we also excel in highly engineered vehicle systems and armour platforms used by some of the world’s largest defence organisations. Founded in 1926, NP Aerospace has served the defence industry for over 40 years, evolving into an agile and diverse company. Our Business Development team is expanding both in the UK and North America. Equal Opportunity Employer Statement: NP Aerospace is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We welcome applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of race, colour, national origin, gender, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, or any other legally protected status. All employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs. We are also fully committed to supporting the Defence Community and actively advertise roles on Defence specific platforms such as CTP, Force Families, Forces Employment Charity, and Veterans Job Board. Data Privacy: NP Aerospace respects the privacy of all applicants. Personal information provided during the application process will be treated in accordance with our privacy policy and applicable data protection laws. Please note: If successful, you will be required to sign the Official Secrets Act and successfully pass the necessary checks before you can begin your employment with NP Aerospace
Locations
Manufacturing Engineer in Coventry, Longford employer: N P Aerospace Ltd
NP Aerospace is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Coventry where innovation and collaboration thrive. With a strong commitment to employee growth, competitive benefits including flexible working hours, generous holiday allowances, and a focus on health and wellbeing, NP Aerospace empowers its team to excel in their careers while contributing to meaningful defence solutions. Join us to be part of a supportive culture that values respect and integrity, and take advantage of opportunities to shape the future of project management in a global leader in armour technology.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Manufacturing Engineer in Coventry, Longford
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Lean Management principles and methodologies, as they are crucial for this role. Consider brushing up on tools like 5S and process mapping to demonstrate your understanding during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the defence sector, especially those involved in manufacturing engineering. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to gain insights and potentially get referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've implemented process improvements in previous roles. Highlight your experience with CNC machining and press moulding, as these are key aspects of the job.
✨Tip Number 4
Research NP Aerospace thoroughly, including their products and values. Tailor your conversation to align with their mission of improving lives through innovative solutions, showing that you're a good cultural fit.
We think you need these skills to ace Manufacturing Engineer in Coventry, Longford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in manufacturing engineering, particularly in areas like Lean methodologies, CNC machining, and problem-solving techniques. Use specific examples that demonstrate your skills and achievements.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Write a cover letter that connects your passion for manufacturing engineering with the mission of NP Aerospace. Mention how your background aligns with their focus on innovative solutions and improving lives in the defence sector.
Highlight Relevant Skills:In your application, emphasise your understanding of Lean concepts and your experience with various manufacturing processes. Be specific about your familiarity with tools like PFMEA and CAD models, as these are crucial for the role.
Showcase Continuous Improvement Experience:Demonstrate your ability to lead process improvements and cost reductions in previous roles. Provide concrete examples of how you've applied Lean methodologies or other continuous improvement techniques to enhance manufacturing processes.
How to prepare for a job interview at N P Aerospace Ltd
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Manufacturing Engineer, especially in the context of composite armour systems. Familiarise yourself with key terms like DFM, PFMEA, and Lean methodologies, as these will likely come up during your interview.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to discuss your previous experience in manufacturing engineering, particularly any work with press moulding and CNC machining. Be ready to provide specific examples of how you've implemented Lean concepts or solved complex problems using methodologies like 5 Whys or Ishikawa.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Skills
Since practical problem-solving is crucial for this role, think of scenarios where you've successfully resolved manufacturing issues. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers and highlight your analytical skills.
✨Align with Company Values
NP Aerospace values respect, collaboration, integrity, and dedication. During your interview, reflect these values in your responses and demonstrate how you can contribute to a positive team environment. This will show that you're not just a fit for the role, but also for the company culture.
