At a Glance
- Tasks: Bridge engineering design and production for military vehicles, ensuring efficient manufacturing processes.
- Company: Join NP Aerospace, a leader in defence technology and vehicle integration.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible hours, 25 days holiday, performance bonuses, and career growth opportunities.
- Other info: Collaborative culture focused on innovation and continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on military vehicles that protect lives and support defence programmes.
- Qualifications: Experience in manufacturing engineering and strong problem-solving skills required.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 45000 £ per year.
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
- 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.
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.
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.
Manufacturing Engineer in Coventry employer: NP Aerospace Limited
At NP Aerospace, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and innovative work culture that values collaboration and integrity. Located in Coventry, our team enjoys flexible working hours, generous holiday allowances, and robust career development opportunities within a global leader in defence technology. Join us to make a meaningful impact while advancing your career in a dynamic environment dedicated to improving lives through cutting-edge solutions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Manufacturing Engineer in Coventry
✨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 NP Aerospace Limited, 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 Coventry
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 NP Aerospace Limited 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 NP Aerospace Limited
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with NP Aerospace Limited, 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 NP Aerospace Limited 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.
