At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and optimise manufacturing processes while driving Lean initiatives and new product introductions.
- Company: Surface Transforms is the UK's only manufacturer of carbon-ceramic brakes, passionate about innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy an attractive salary, 25 days annual leave, and extra leave for your birthday.
- Other info: Join a supportive team that values accountability, collaboration, and independent thinking.
- Why this job: Shape your role in a dynamic environment focused on continuous improvement and technical excellence.
- Qualifications: Degree in Engineering and 5+ years in high-volume manufacturing with proven process optimisation skills.
The predicted salary is between 47000 - 63000 £ per year.
Surface Transforms are experts in the development and production of carbon-ceramic materials and the UK’s only manufacturer of carbon-ceramic brakes for automotive use. Surface Transforms' unique patented Carbon-Ceramic technology provides the ultimate braking performance for road and track. Here at Surface Transforms, passion is at the heart of our brand. As a team, we refuse to accept the impossible. We know that impossible only means that we haven’t found the solution yet.
Your role at Surface Transforms is yours to steer – toward opportunities and away from risks. You have the power to shape your role and we cannot wait to see where you take us and we’ll take pride in supporting the future you chose to build at Surface Transforms.
We are looking for a Senior Manufacturing Engineer to join our growing Process Engineering team. Our Senior Manufacturing Engineer will play a key leadership role within the site’s engineering function, taking ownership of critical manufacturing processes while driving the deployment of the future state Value Stream Map (VSM), Lean initiatives, and new product/process introductions. This position will support the strategic transformation of the operation by embedding technical excellence, process stability, and continuous improvement into daily operations. This role combines deep technical knowledge with cross-functional leadership to improve cost, quality, and delivery performance in line with business imperatives.
What you’ll be doing as our Senior Manufacturing Engineer:
- Process Ownership & Improvement
- Lead and optimize core manufacturing processes (e.g. grinding, assembly, machining, heat treatment) for performance, reliability, and repeatability
- Own process documentation, standard work, and FMEA updates
- Drive root cause analysis and corrective actions for process issues
- Implement data-driven improvements using Lean Six Sigma methodology
- VSM & Lean Leadership
- Develop, lead, and sustain future state VSM deployment for designated areas
- Facilitate Kaizen activities and drive Lean tools (5S, SMED, visual management, standardization)
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams (production, quality, maintenance, supply chain) to align improvement plans with strategic goals
- Track and report KPI progress (OEE, scrap, rework, downtime, etc.)
- New Product & Process Introduction
- Support flawless launch of new products/processes from concept through SOP
- Participate in DFM/DFA reviews with design engineering
- Validate and industrialize new equipment, tooling, and processes
- Ensure alignment with cost, timing, and quality targets
- Leadership & Team Development
- Mentor and coach engineers, graduates & interns
- Promote engineering best practices and problem-solving culture
- Support succession planning and capability development within the team
- Compliance & Quality Systems
- Ensure compliance with IATF 16949, ISO 9001, and internal quality systems
- Lead process audits and readiness for customer/third-party assessments
- Maintain robust control plans and support zero-defect manufacturing objectives
Essential Skills, Knowledge and Experience you will need as our Senior Manufacturing Engineer:
- Degree in Mechanical, Manufacturing, or Industrial Engineering (or equivalent)
- 5+ years of hands-on experience in a high-volume manufacturing environment
- Proven track record in process optimization and Lean deployment
- Strong problem-solving and root cause analysis capability
- Experience leading cross-functional projects or teams
- Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills
Desirable Skills, Knowledge and Experience you will need as our Senior Manufacturing Engineer:
- Six Sigma Green or Black Belt certification
- Familiarity with Toyota/JLR Lean systems or similar benchmarking
- Experience with digital manufacturing tools (e.g. MES, OEE dashboards)
- Project management qualification or experience in product launch (APQP, PPAP)
You’ll have these personal attributes:
- Accountability
- Troubleshooting
- Continuous improvement
- Adaptability
- Communication
- Collaboration
- Independent thinking and working and problem-solving skills
What we’ll give you in return:
- Attractive salary
- 25 Days Annual Leave + Bank holidays
- Extra day Annual Leave for your birthday
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Death in service scheme
Salary: £55,000 - £60,000 dependent on experience
Hours: Monday – Thursday 8am – 5pm, Friday 8am – 2.30pm
Senior Manufacturing Engineer in Knowsley employer: Surface Transforms
At Surface Transforms, we pride ourselves on being at the forefront of carbon-ceramic technology, offering a dynamic work environment where innovation and passion drive our success. As a Senior Manufacturing Engineer, you will not only lead critical manufacturing processes but also have the opportunity to mentor and develop future talent within a culture that values continuous improvement and collaboration. With competitive salaries, generous leave policies, and a commitment to employee well-being, Surface Transforms is an exceptional employer for those seeking meaningful and rewarding careers in the automotive industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Manufacturing Engineer in Knowsley
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Surface Transforms' unique carbon-ceramic technology. Understanding their products and processes will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the company and its innovations.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight your experience with Lean Six Sigma methodologies during networking opportunities. Engaging with professionals in the field can provide insights into the company's culture and expectations, making you a more attractive candidate.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've led cross-functional teams in previous roles. This will showcase your leadership skills and ability to drive process improvements, which are crucial for the Senior Manufacturing Engineer position.
✨Tip Number 4
Connect with current or former employees on platforms like LinkedIn. Gaining insights from their experiences can provide valuable information about the company’s work environment and expectations, helping you tailor your approach when applying.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Manufacturing Engineer in Knowsley
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in manufacturing engineering, particularly in high-volume environments. Emphasise your skills in process optimisation, Lean methodologies, and any leadership roles you've held.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:In your cover letter, express your passion for the role and the company. Mention specific projects or achievements that demonstrate your ability to lead process improvements and your familiarity with Lean Six Sigma methodologies.
Showcase Technical Knowledge:Be prepared to discuss your technical expertise in areas such as grinding, assembly, and heat treatment processes. Highlight any certifications like Six Sigma Green or Black Belt that you possess, as these are highly relevant.
Prepare for Potential Questions:Anticipate questions related to your problem-solving abilities and experience with cross-functional teams. Be ready to provide examples of how you've driven improvements and led successful projects in previous roles.
How to prepare for a job interview at Surface Transforms
✨Showcase Your Technical Expertise
As a Senior Manufacturing Engineer, it's crucial to demonstrate your deep technical knowledge. Be prepared to discuss specific manufacturing processes you've optimised in the past, and how your expertise can contribute to Surface Transforms' unique carbon-ceramic technology.
✨Emphasise Lean Methodologies
Since the role involves driving Lean initiatives, make sure to highlight your experience with Lean Six Sigma methodologies. Share examples of how you've implemented these practices to improve efficiency and reduce waste in previous roles.
✨Prepare for Cross-Functional Collaboration
This position requires collaboration with various teams. Be ready to discuss your experience working with cross-functional teams, and how you’ve successfully aligned improvement plans with strategic goals in past projects.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
As a key leader in the engineering function, it's important to showcase your leadership abilities. Talk about your experience mentoring and coaching others, and how you foster a culture of problem-solving and continuous improvement within your team.
