Production Engineer in Herstmonceux

Location: Hailsham, BN27 4EL

Salary: Competitive, DOE + Excellent Benefits

Contract: Full time, Permanent

Hours: 37 hours Monday to Friday

Benefits: A competitive salary, private medical insurance, 25 days holiday, salary sacrifice company pension, life insurance, a state-of-the-art working environment, EV Scheme, C2W Scheme.

For over 60 years, VACGEN has been driving innovation in ultra-high vacuum (UHV) technology, supporting cutting‑edge research across the globe. Our high‑precision products are trusted by world‑leading institutions and researchers to deliver results.

We are now recruiting for a Production Engineer to assist in the NPI process and to help define our manufacturing processes. You will:

• Optimise designs and processes to meet customer requirements, maximise quality and efficiency.
• Ensure best practice and identify any problems in the production line, troubleshooting manufacturing issues and completing various administrative tasks.
• Develop and maintain manufacturing routes and BOMs in ERP system.
• Support quoting process with technical input and accurate cost estimates.
• Collaborate with design and manufacturing to optimize new product introduction.
• Identify opportunities for process improvement and cost reduction.
• Create and maintain work instructions and process documentation.
• Provide product knowledge and experience of manufacturing processes relating to UHV components and assemblies.
• Provide training for other staff members in the use of ERP system.
• Review ECN requests and completion of ECN actions.
• Provide support with 8D and NCR investigations by conducting root cause analysis and implementing corrective and preventive actions.
• Design Vacuum Chambers, create 3D CAD models and 2D production drawings.
• Review customer chamber drawings for build‑to‑print designs.
• Design fixtures required for production manufacturing processes.
• Complete DFMEA and PFMEA in accordance with PPAP.
• Employ copy exact principles and controls where applicable.
• Liaise with customers and suppliers.

In order to be successful in this role it is essential that you have:

• Proven experience in the engineering field.
• Experience with CAD software and a proficiency in MS office.
• A degree or an HNC in engineering.
• The ability to work on your own and as part of a team.
• An open‑minded attitude towards new ideas.
• Experience as a hands‑on doer with the skills to assemble small and large complex assemblies.

No agencies please. Vacgen Limited is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate based on race, ethnicity, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, age, or any other protected status under the Equality Act 2010.

Please Note: We cannot accept applications from overseas or people who do not have the right to work in the UK.

Working Conditions: This role involves travel to client sites. While most work will be carried out from your usual base, you may be required to attend client meetings, site visits, or events as part of your duties. Travel will be planned in advance wherever possible, and all reasonable expenses will be covered.