## Senior Manufacturing Engineer - NPIApply: Great Yarmouth, UK: Full time: Posted Today: JR101523**POSITION SUMMARY**The Senior Manufacturing Engineer - NPI leads the Manufacturing Engineering delivery of new products from early design engagement through prototype, qualification, pilot build, production release and stable manufacture. The role combines senior technical manufacturing engineering with disciplined project delivery, ensuring products are manufacturable, production-ready and introduced to agreed safety, quality, delivery, cost and schedule requirements.The post holder translates design intent into robust, repeatable and scalable manufacturing processes; coordinates cross-functional deliverables; leads build readiness, process prove-out and production trials; and retains technical ownership through ramp-up and stabilisation. This is not a stand-alone project management role. Proven hands-on NPI and industrialisation experience is essential. **CORE ACCOUNTABILITIES*** End-to-end Manufacturing Engineering ownership of assigned NPI and industrialisation programmes.* Manufacturing readiness, process development, validation, documentation, tooling, training and production release.* Technical ownership of assigned products through prototype, pilot build, ramp-up and stable production.* Planning and control of engineering deliverables, milestones, risks, issues, actions and dependencies.* Cross-functional coordination across Design, Production, Quality, Test, Supply Chain, Programme Management and suppliers.* Delivery of capable, controlled and scalable manufacturing processes that achieve safety, quality, delivery and cost requirements. **KEY RESPONSIBILITIES** **New Product Introduction and Industrialisation*** Lead Manufacturing Engineering activity across the full NPI lifecycle from concept and design reviews through prototype, qualification, pilot build, release and ramp-up.* Create and maintain NPI manufacturing plans with clear deliverables, owners, milestones, dependencies and acceptance criteria.* Lead Design for Manufacture and Assembly reviews and translate product requirements and design intent into practical manufacturing solutions.* Plan and coordinate build readiness reviews, prototype and pilot builds, process prove-out, production trials and lessons learned.* Define manufacturing process flows, routings, work content, equipment, tooling, fixtures, test interfaces, skills and training requirements.* Ensure manufacturing readiness is evidenced before production release, including controlled documentation, capable processes, available materials, validated tooling and trained personnel.* Lead the transfer from development into production and remain accountable for engineering support until agreed stability and performance criteria are achieved. **Manufacturing and Process Engineering*** Develop, validate and continuously improve robust, repeatable and scalable manufacturing processes.* Lead process characterisation, verification and validation using objective data to demonstrate capability and control.* Own and approve manufacturing documentation including SOPs, work instructions, process specifications, routings and Bills of Materials where applicable.* Lead complex root cause investigations and implement effective corrective and preventative actions.* Define process controls, inspection points, acceptance criteria and production KPIs.* Drive improvements in yield, cycle time, throughput, scrap, rework, cost and delivery performance. **Engineering Project Delivery*** Lead assigned NPI, industrialisation, capacity, yield improvement, equipment and strategic Manufacturing Engineering projects from initiation through completion.* Develop and maintain proportionate project plans, schedules, resource requirements, risks, issues, actions and dependencies.* Define technical deliverables, milestones, success criteria and manufacturing release requirements.* Coordinate activities across all supporting functions and challenge late or incomplete deliverables.* Monitor progress against agreed milestones and implement recovery actions where delivery is at risk.* Maintain clear governance through project reviews, dashboards, action logs and RAID management.* Communicate progress, decisions, risks and support requirements clearly to stakeholders and senior leadership. **Product and Technical Ownershi**p* Take senior Manufacturing Engineering ownership of assigned products from NPI through ramp-up and into stable production.* Act as the primary technical escalation point for significant manufacturing, process, material and integration issues.* Be accountable for manufacturing performance including yield, efficiency, quality, delivery and process stability.* Balance immediate delivery requirements with long-term process robustness, compliance, maintainability and scalability.* Provide manufacturing input to product changes, obsolescence activity, capacity decisions and future product strategy.* Act as technical liaison with customers, suppliers and the design authority on Manufacturing Engineering matters as required. **Technical Leadership and Team Suppor**t* Provide technical guidance and mentorship to Manufacturing Engineers, Junior Manufacturing Engineers and Technicians.* Set best practice for process development, documentation, structured problem solving, project control and manufacturing readiness.* Support capability development and knowledge transfer across the Manufacturing Engineering team.* Provide hands-on support during critical builds, trials, process prove-out and production ramp-up.* Promote an engineering culture focused on ownership, quality, delivery and evidence-based decision-making. **Cross-Functional Collaboration and Governanc**e* Build effective working relationships across Design, Production, Quality, Test, Supply Chain, Programme Management and external partners.* Facilitate technical reviews, manufacturing readiness reviews, project meetings and status reviews.* Influence outcomes without relying on direct authority, maintaining clear ownership and constructive challenge.* Ensure engineering deliverables comply with internal processes, quality requirements and applicable external standards.* Maintain traceable evidence of process validation, readiness decisions, risks, actions and approvals. **PERSON SPECIFICATION** **Technical and NPI Capability*** Significant manufacturing engineering experience within a production environment.* Proven hands-on experience leading NPI and industrialisation from development or prototype builds into stable production.* Demonstrable experience developing and validating manufacturing processes, tooling, documentation and production controls.* Strong practical experience of build readiness, production trials, process prove-out, manufacturing release and production ramp-up.* Ability to interpret engineering drawings, specifications, Bills of Materials and product requirements.* Demonstrable experience leading complex problem solving, root cause analysis and corrective action.* Project Delivery and Operational Co-ordination* Experience planning and controlling engineering work including schedules, milestones, resources, risks, issues, actions and dependencies.* Able to coordinate cross-functional teams and suppliers to achieve technical and delivery outcomes.* Confident maintaining project dashboards, action logs, RAID logs and concise stakeholder reporting.* Able to manage multiple priorities and establish practical recovery actions where delivery is at risk. **Qualifications and Technical Familiarity*** Degree, HNC/HND, apprenticeship or significant equivalent experience in Engineering, Manufacturing, Electronics, Production or a related discipline.* Experience in hybrid microelectronics, advanced electronic assembly, semiconductor, aerospace, defence or another high-reliability environment is desirable.* Knowledge of cleanroom operations, bonding, electronic test, high-precision assembly or special processes is desirable.* Knowledge of ISO 9001, AS9100, ERP/MRP systems and controlled engineering documentation is desirable.* Project Management, Lean or Six Sigma qualification is desirable.* Leadership, Communication and Behaviour* Technically credible, hands-on and comfortable operating at strategic and shop-floor levels.* Structured, data-driven and disciplined in planning, prioritisation and follow-through.* Strong communicator who can influence, challenge and align stakeholders constructively.* Proactive, collaborative, resilient and focused on delivery without compromising safety, quality or engineering rigour.* Able to provide technical guidance and mentorship to engineers and technicians. **Other Requirements*** Able to obtain and maintain the required Security Clearance.* Willingness to travel occasionally where business or project needs require.* Flexible approach to supporting critical builds, trials and production priorities.* Commitment to continuous professional development and high engineering standards. This job description summarises the principal responsibilities and expectations of the role. It is not exhaustive and may reasonably evolve in line with business needs and the manufacturing operating model. #J-18808-Ljbffr
Senior Manufacturing Engineer - NPI in Great Yarmouth employer: Spectrum Control
Spectrum Control is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work environment where collaboration and innovation thrive. With a strong focus on employee growth, you will have access to training and development opportunities that enhance your skills while working in a supportive culture that values safety and compliance. Located in the UK, this role provides a unique chance to contribute to high-quality production processes within a company committed to excellence and customer satisfaction.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Manufacturing Engineer - NPI in Great Yarmouth
✨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 Spectrum Control, 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 Spectrum Control 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 Spectrum Control
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Spectrum Control, 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 Spectrum Control 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.
