Manufacturing Engineer
Location: Lower Dicker, near Hailsham, East Sussex
About the role
We're recruiting for an experienced Manufacturing Engineer to join a specialist engineering and manufacturing business near Hailsham.
This is a hands-on, technical role where you'll play a key part in developing and improving manufacturing processes, programming CNC machinery and designing bespoke tooling and fixtures. You'll work closely with production teams to improve efficiency, reduce costs and waste, and maintain the high standards required when manufacturing complex, precision-engineered components.
The successful candidate will bring strong CNC machining and programming experience, advanced CAD/CAM skills and a proactive approach to continuous improvement.
Key responsibilities
- Provide manufacturing cost information to support production planning and make-or-buy decisions.
- Design and manufacture bespoke workholding equipment and fixtures using 3D CAD modelling and 2D technical drawings.
- Write and amend CNC programmes both at machine controls and using CAD/CAM software.
- Prove out CNC programmes on machinery to ensure they run accurately and efficiently.
- Produce job setup sheets and maintain clear manufacturing documentation.
- Manage tooling and fixtures across the machines.
- Lead continuous improvement activities, identifying and implementing best-practice manufacturing methods.
- Improve quality and productivity while reducing waste, costs and manufacturing time.
- Evaluate new methods, design changes, tooling and fixtures to improve manufacturing and assembly processes.
- Identify opportunities to reduce product costs through continuous improvement and product maintenance.
- Train and support production staff, sharing technical knowledge and preparing training manuals and work instructions where required.
Essential skills and experience
- Extensive experience machining aluminium and stainless steel.
- Experience operating and programming multi-axis CNC machine tools, including 5-axis, 3+2 and multitasking machinery.
- Experience with fixed-head turning centres.
- Experience manufacturing complex, tight-tolerance components, ideally within industries such as automotive, aerospace, medical or scientific engineering.
- Ability to read and write NC G-code programmes.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Experience working in low-volume and batch-production environments.
- Understanding of engineering documentation, including bills of materials (BOMs), operations and routings.
- Excellent IT skills, including Microsoft Office applications and ERP systems.
- Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively with colleagues across different departments.
- Experience using 3D CAD software, such as SolidWorks, Creo, Siemens NX, Solid Edge or AutoCAD.
- Advanced CAM programming experience for milling and turning, using packages such as SolidCAM, Edgecam, HyperMill, Mastercam or Siemens NX.
- A proactive approach, with plenty of initiative, drive and determination.
Desirable skills and experience
- Experience using SolidWorks and SolidCAM.
- Knowledge of Vericut simulation software.
- Experience with manufacturing automation, including bar feeders and palletisation.
- Project management experience.
Qualifications and experience
- An HNC/HND in Manufacturing or Production Engineering, or equivalent industry experience.
- Alternatively, a minimum of 10 years' industry experience alongside a completed engineering apprenticeship.
- At least five years' experience in a similar role.
Personal qualities
- Highly motivated and enthusiastic about engineering.
- Comfortable working both independently and as part of a team.
- Able to listen carefully and follow instructions.
- Confident using their own initiative to solve problems and improve processes.
- Positive, cooperative and professional in their approach.
- Happy to share knowledge and work constructively with colleagues.
- Committed to maintaining high standards and contributing to the ongoing success of the business.
If you're an experienced Manufacturing Engineer looking for a hands-on role where you can apply your technical expertise, improve manufacturing processes and make a real difference to production performance, we'd love to hear from you.
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Manufacturing Engineer (1 Year Fixed Term Contract) employer: Recruitment South East Ltd
Join our dynamic engineering team as a Manufacturing Engineer, where you will not only enhance your technical skills but also contribute to innovative manufacturing processes in a precision engineering environment. We pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative work culture that encourages continuous improvement and professional growth, offering training opportunities and the chance to work with cutting-edge technology. Located in a vibrant area, we provide a supportive atmosphere that values initiative and teamwork, making us an excellent employer for those seeking meaningful and rewarding careers.
Contact Details:
Recruitment South East Ltd Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Manufacturing Engineer (1 Year Fixed Term Contract)
✨Join Local Manufacturing Groups
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✨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 Recruitment South East Ltd, 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 Recruitment South East Ltd 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 Recruitment South East Ltd
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Recruitment South East Ltd, 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 Recruitment South East Ltd 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.
