At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a skilled team in innovative manufacturing processes and technology transitions.
- Company: Join Collins Aerospace, a leader in aerospace and defence technology.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, flexible working, and excellent career development opportunities.
- Other info: Work in state-of-the-art facilities with a focus on new technologies.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in aerospace by driving innovation and continuous improvement.
- Qualifications: Degree in Manufacturing Engineering or equivalent experience required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
We are now looking for an R&D Manufacturing Manager to lead a skilled team of Manufacturing Engineers and Technicians across mechanical and electronic build and test activities. This key leadership role supports the transition of new technologies from demonstrator stage through industrialisation to New Product Introduction, and future production.
Responsibilities
- Lead, develop, and support a team of Manufacturing Engineers and Technicians, ensuring clear resource planning, skills development, performance reviews, and personal development plans are in place.
- Act as the key manufacturing point of contact for internal and external customers, ensuring manufacturing deliverables are understood, planned, communicated, and achieved.
- Ensure manufacturing activities comply with Collins Aerospace corporate and local processes, and participate in internal and third‑party audits to support continued AS9100 compliance.
- Maintain traceable components, calibrated tools, compliant chemicals, and accurate digital build documentation that reflects the physical build.
- Support the creation, maintenance, and closure of work orders through SAP, ensuring manufacturing activity is visible, controlled, and aligned to programme needs.
- Plan, monitor, and communicate manufacturing capacity and capability across projects, providing the business with a clear view of current and future requirements.
- Develop and maintain meaningful KPIs for the Operations area, using data and insight to support decision‑making and continuous improvement.
- Collaborate with the Supply Chain Manager to support make‑versus‑buy decisions and ensure manufacturing requirements are considered early and effectively.
- Partner with Engineering to support the successful transition of products from design into manufacture and test, ensuring parts and products are built in line with design data.
- Actively seek out improvement opportunities and lead a culture of continuous improvement across the manufacturing team.
Qualifications
- Manufacturing Engineering degree or equivalent experience.
- Previous experience in a manufacturing engineering, operations, or technical leadership role.
- Strong people‑management skills, with the ability to develop and support a technical team.
- Experience managing processes, projects, and deliverables within a technical or manufacturing environment.
- Strong communication skills, with the ability to work effectively with Engineering, Supply Chain, Operations, Quality, and customers.
- Excellent organisational skills, attention to detail, and ability to work in a fast‑paced environment.
- A proactive mindset with a focus on continuous improvement.
- Typically requires a university degree or equivalent experience with significant relevant experience in a technical, engineering, or manufacturing environment.
Preferred Experience
- AS9100 experience.
- SAP experience.
- Experience working with electric motors, controllers, electronics, or ESD‑controlled environments.
- Previous management experience within aerospace or another high‑precision engineering environment.
- Experience supporting product industrialisation, NPI, or transition from design into manufacturing.
- A strong interest in new technologies, innovation, and improved ways of working.
Benefits
- Competitive salary.
- Flexible, hybrid, and family‑friendly working arrangements.
- Outstanding state‑of‑the‑art facilities and laboratories centrally located and easily accessible.
- Life insurance.
- Excellent corporate pension plan with a 2:1 matched contribution up to 10%.
- Private health insurance.
- 25 days annual leave plus the ability to buy/sell up to 5 days.
- Career development opportunities.
- Half‑day working on Fridays.
- And so much more!
About Collins Aerospace: At Collins Aerospace, we are working at the edge of what is possible in aerospace and defense. Across RTX, 185,000 people are united by one purpose: solving complex challenges, advancing technology, and helping to connect and protect our world. Within our Electronic Controls and Motor Systems business, we focus on technologies that will help power the future of flight, including advanced electric motors, controllers, and high‑performance aerospace systems.
R&D Manufacturing Manager in Solihull employer: RTX Corporation
Collins Aerospace is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where innovation and technology thrive. With competitive salaries, flexible working arrangements, and outstanding facilities, employees are empowered to grow their careers while contributing to cutting-edge aerospace solutions. The company fosters a culture of continuous improvement and collaboration, ensuring that every team member has the opportunity to develop their skills and make a meaningful impact in the industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land R&D Manufacturing Manager in Solihull
✨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!
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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
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✨Apply Directly Through Company Websites
When you find a role at a company you love, like RTX Corporation, 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 R&D Manufacturing Manager in Solihull
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 RTX Corporation 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 RTX Corporation
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with RTX Corporation, 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 RTX Corporation 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.
