Manufacturing Process Engineer

Roc Search’s client is seeking a Technical Process Engineer to support and improve manufacturing operations for ceramic production in Northampton. This role focuses on optimizing processes, ensuring product quality, and supporting production teams to achieve operational excellence. This role would suit someone with a background in Ceramics, Plastic Injection Moulding or Casting.

Responsibilities:

• Develop and improve manufacturing processes – including mix preparation, injection moulding, and firing – to maximize yield, reduce defects, and minimize cycle times.
• Serve as the technical lead for customer inquiries and quotations, including cost estimation for cores, development work, engineering, and tooling for both new and existing programs.
• Provide hands-on process troubleshooting and engineering support to production teams. Collaborate in the development of new materials or modification of existing ones to meet performance and customer requirements.
• Oversee the material approval process, including coordination with the lab and materials controller. Manage testing sign-offs and ensure documentation accuracy.
• Work with the Quality team to ensure all processes meet AS9100 Rev D and other applicable quality standards, customer specifications, and internal quality management requirements.
• Lead and participate in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and other process improvement initiatives to enhance operational efficiency and reduce waste.
• Specify, evaluate, and maintain production equipment and tooling. Ensure all equipment performs optimally and complies with safety regulations. Generate tooling build instructions and coordinate with customers and toolmakers during new tooling development.
• Create and maintain detailed technical documentation such as process flow diagrams, work instructions, and engineering reports using Microsoft Office and internal systems. Deliver training as required.
• Partner with R&D, Quality, and Production teams to support new product introductions and technology implementation across manufacturing.
• Conduct risk assessments and ensure safe handling of hazardous materials including ceramic powders and liquid resins. Maintain full compliance with safety standards.

Skills and Competencies:

• Strong knowledge of ceramic manufacturing processes, including mix preparation, material control, and dimensional tolerances.
• Proficient in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD) for tooling and fixture design.
• Experienced with Microsoft Office for documentation and technical reporting.
• Excellent problem-solving and root cause analysis skills.
• Effective communicator with the ability to collaborate across departments and present technical findings to stakeholders.
• Green Belt in Six Sigma (preferred).