At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the development of innovative manufacturing processes and tools for optimal production.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking company focused on engineering excellence and continuous improvement.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working hours, mobile work options, and great development opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a culture that values accountability, collaboration, and technical excellence.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in manufacturing while driving LEAN transformation and innovation.
- Qualifications: Degree in engineering and proven experience in optimising manufacturing processes required.
The predicted salary is between 38250 - 46750 £ per year.
Responsibilities
- Lead the industrialisation of new tooling, fixtures, and manufacturing processes.
- Define, validate, and optimise production processes to ensure repeatability, quality, and cost‑effectiveness.
- Oversee process capability studies, PFMEAs, and control plans for new or modified processes.
- Collaborate with Engineering and R&D teams to ensure manufacturability and smooth product introduction.
- Analyse production performance data and Value Stream Mapping to identify bottlenecks, waste, and improvement opportunities.
- Drive initiatives to improve throughput, reduce cycle time, and enhance overall equipment effectiveness.
- Support cost‑reduction programmes through process optimisation and waste elimination.
- Lead LEAN transformation activities across the manufacturing area.
- Facilitate Kaizen events, root‑cause analysis sessions, and cross‑functional problem‑solving workshops.
- Implement and sustain 5S practices, ensuring workplace organisation becomes part of daily culture.
- Train and mentor teams in LEAN tools such as value stream mapping, SMED, visual management, and standard work.
- Manage and develop the Manufacturing Engineering and Test Manufacturing Engineering teams.
- Set clear priorities, allocate resources, and ensure alignment with operational goals.
- Work closely with production, quality, supply chain, and Engineering and R&D teams to resolve issues and support daily operations.
- Build a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and technical excellence.
- Ensure process documentation, work instructions, and configuration items are accurate and up to date.
- Maintain compliance with the company’s quality management system and relevant industry standards.
- Oversee ERP/MRP configuration related to manufacturing processes, routings, and BOM accuracy.
- Support audits and drive corrective actions where required.
Qualifications
- Degree in a relevant engineering discipline (e. g., Manufacturing, Mechanical, Industrial, or similar).
- Proven experience developing, industrialising, and optimising manufacturing processes, tooling, and fixtures.
- Strong background in process validation, capability studies, PFMEA, and control plan creation.
- Demonstrated success implementing LEAN methodologies, such as Kaizen, 5S and value stream mapping.
- Track record of delivering measurable improvements in production efficiency, cycle time, yield etc.
- Hands‑on experience in a live production environment.
- Experience leading structured problem‑solving activities.
- Competence in ERP/MRP systems, including configuration of routings, BOMs, and process data.
- Strong communication and cross‑functional collaboration skills.
- Experience working with D365 Finance and Operations (Microsoft ERP system).
- Knowledge of quality systems such as ISO9001 and AS9100.
- Prior leadership experience managing engineers or technicians, or significant project leadership demonstrating equivalent capability.
- Experience of working with and processing optical fibres including splicing and joining.
- Technical understanding and experience of manufacturing optical devices.
Benefits
- Work‑life integration
- Mobile working
- Flexible working hours
- Pension scheme
- Good development opportunities Employee discounts
- Attractive remuneration system
- Health initiatives
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Principal Engineer employer: WIKA Group
As a Principal Engineer at our company, you will thrive in a dynamic work environment that champions innovation and continuous improvement. We offer flexible working hours and mobile working options to support your work-life integration, alongside a robust pension scheme and attractive remuneration. Our commitment to employee development ensures you have ample opportunities for growth, while our health initiatives promote a balanced lifestyle, making us an excellent employer for those seeking meaningful and rewarding careers in manufacturing engineering.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Engineer
✨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 WIKA Group, 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 Principal Engineer
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 WIKA Group 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 WIKA Group
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with WIKA Group, 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 WIKA Group 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.
