At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive manufacturing excellence and optimise processes in a high-precision engineering environment.
- Company: Join VACGEN, a world leader in ultra-high vacuum technology.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, private medical insurance, 25 days holiday, and a state-of-the-art working environment.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with opportunities for continuous improvement and career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on innovative products that support cutting-edge science and technology.
- Qualifications: Experience in CNC machining and process improvement within precision engineering.
The predicted salary is between 36900 - 45100 £ per year.
Location: Hailsham, Lower Dicker, BN27 4EL
Salary: Competitive + Benefits
Contract: Full-Time, Permanent
Benefits: A competitive salary, private medical insurance, 25 days holiday, salary sacrifice company pension, life insurance, a state-of-the-art working environment!
Drive Manufacturing Excellence in a High-Precision Engineering Environment.
VACGEN is a world-leading manufacturer of ultra-high vacuum (UHV) technology, supplying advanced solutions to scientific, industrial and research organisations across the globe. We are looking for an experienced Manufacturing Engineer to join our Operations Engineering team. This is an exciting opportunity for a skilled machining and process engineering professional to play a key role in optimising manufacturing performance, supporting new product introduction and driving continuous improvement across our production operations.
The Role:
- Provide technical expertise and manufacturing support across our machining operations, helping to improve productivity, quality and efficiency.
- Responsible for CNC programming, fixture design, process optimisation and tooling management.
- Work closely with Production, Quality and Engineering teams to deliver innovative manufacturing solutions.
- Influence manufacturing strategy, support complex engineering projects and contribute to the development of world-class products.
Key Responsibilities:
- Develop and improve manufacturing processes to enhance quality, productivity and operational efficiency.
- Design bespoke workholding solutions and fixtures using SolidWorks, including both 3D models and manufacturing drawings.
- Create, modify and optimise CNC programs using machine controls and CAD/CAM software.
- Prove-out CNC programs and support the transition of new products into production.
- Produce job set-up sheets, work instructions and manufacturing documentation.
- Manage tooling and fixture requirements across machining operations.
- Support make-versus-buy decisions through manufacturing and cost analysis.
- Identify and implement cost reduction, waste reduction and continuous improvement opportunities.
- Evaluate and recommend new manufacturing methods, tooling and process improvements.
- Support production teams with technical expertise, problem-solving and process training.
- Create training materials and provide guidance to operators and technicians.
- Participate in operational improvement projects and best practice initiatives.
About You:
You will be an experienced Manufacturing Engineer with a strong background in CNC machining and process improvement within a precision engineering environment.
Essential Skills & Experience:
- Extensive experience machining aluminium and stainless steel components.
- Strong knowledge of multi-axis CNC machining, including 5-axis, 3+2 and multitasking machines.
- Experience with fixed-head CNC turning centres.
- Proven track record manufacturing complex, tightly toleranced components within sectors such as aerospace, automotive, medical, scientific or similar high-precision industries.
- Ability to read, write and optimise NC G-Code programmes.
- Experience using 3D CAD software such as SolidWorks, Creo, Siemens NX, Solid Edge or AutoCAD.
- Strong CAD/CAM experience within milling and turning environments.
- Excellent analytical, problem-solving and communication skills.
- Knowledge of Bills of Materials (BOMs), routings and engineering documentation.
- Strong IT skills, including Microsoft Office and ERP systems.
- Experience working in low-volume or batch manufacturing environments.
Desirable Skills & Experience:
- SolidWorks and SolidCAM experience.
- Knowledge of Vericut software.
- Experience with manufacturing automation, including palletisation and bar feeding systems.
- Project management experience.
- HNC/HND in Manufacturing, Production or Mechanical Engineering, or a recognised engineering apprenticeship with significant industry experience.
- Minimum five years' experience in a similar Manufacturing Engineer position.
Why Join VACGEN:
At VACGEN, you'll become part of a highly skilled engineering team working on innovative products that support cutting-edge science and technology worldwide. We offer a collaborative environment where continuous improvement, technical excellence and employee development are highly valued. This is a fantastic opportunity to broaden your expertise, influence manufacturing performance and contribute to the future growth of a globally recognised engineering business.
Apply Now:
If you're a proactive Manufacturing Engineer looking to take the next step in your career and make a real impact within a high-precision manufacturing environment, we'd love to hear from you. Apply today and help shape the future of advanced engineering at VACGEN.
Manufacturing Engineer in Brighton employer: Vacgen Ltd
Vacgen Ltd is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic and supportive work culture in Hailsham, where innovation meets precision. Employees benefit from competitive salaries, private medical insurance, and generous holiday allowances, alongside opportunities for professional growth in a high-technology environment that values engineering excellence.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Manufacturing Engineer in Brighton
✨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 Vacgen 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!
We think you need these skills to ace Manufacturing Engineer in Brighton
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 Vacgen 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 Vacgen Ltd
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Vacgen 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 Vacgen 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.
