At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead manufacturing development for hydrogen-electric propulsion systems in a dynamic, prototype-focused environment.
- Company: Join ZeroAvia, a pioneer in zero-emission aviation technology.
- Benefits: Enjoy private health care, mental health support, free lunches, and stock options.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on sustainable aviation while working with cutting-edge technology.
- Qualifications: Degree in engineering with 7+ years in aerospace manufacturing and strong problem-solving skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
ZeroAvia is pioneering the transition to zero-emission aviation through the development and certification of hydrogen-electric propulsion systems. Our technology combines hydrogen fuel cells, electric motors, advanced power electronics, and aerospace-grade systems integration to power the next generation of sustainable aircraft.
As we accelerate towards certification and commercial deployment, we are seeking an experienced Senior Manufacturing Engineer to lead manufacturing development activities within a highly dynamic, prototype-intensive environment.
Position Summary
The Senior Manufacturing Engineer will be responsible for developing, implementing, and continuously improving manufacturing processes for ZeroAvia's hydrogen-electric propulsion systems. The role requires a hands-on engineer who thrives in an environment where designs evolve rapidly, build schedules are challenging, and close collaboration with engineering teams is essential. The successful candidate will bridge the gap between Design Engineering and Production, supporting rapid prototyping, technology maturation, certification hardware builds, and the industrialisation of future production systems. This is a key role supporting the transition from concept and development builds to low-rate production and ultimately certified aerospace products.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead manufacturing activities across prototype, development and certification programmes, supporting system integration, testing and flight-test activities whilst driving rapid resolution of manufacturing challenges.
- Develop, validate and optimise manufacturing processes, assembly methods, work instructions and manufacturing documentation to ensure safe, efficient and scalable production of complex aerospace systems.
- Act as the manufacturing lead within product development teams, influencing design decisions through Design for Manufacture and Assembly (DFMA) principles to improve quality, cost, manufacturability and performance.
- Drive industrialisation and production readiness activities, including manufacturing strategy development, tooling and equipment specification, process validation and capacity planning to support the transition from development to serial production.
- Ensure compliance with aerospace quality and regulatory requirements, supporting process qualification, first article inspections, audits, root cause investigations and certification activities.
- Lead continuous improvement initiatives and collaborate across Engineering, Quality, Supply Chain and Production teams to enhance productivity, reduce waste, improve build quality and support strategic manufacturing objectives.
Role Requirements
- Degree-qualified in Manufacturing, Mechanical, Aerospace, Industrial Engineering or a related discipline, with a minimum of 7 years' manufacturing engineering experience within aerospace, defence, motorsport, advanced energy or other highly regulated industries.
- Proven experience supporting prototype and development programmes, introducing new products from concept through production and developing manufacturing processes for complex electro-mechanical assemblies.
- Strong technical knowledge of aerospace manufacturing, assembly processes, precision machining, process validation, configuration control, engineering change management, and production tooling and fixture design.
- Ability to interpret engineering drawings, CAD models, specifications and bills of materials, with experience using ERP/MRP systems and manufacturing planning tools.
- Working knowledge of aerospace quality and certification requirements, ideally within AS9100 and Part 21 environments, with experience in advanced technologies such as hydrogen fuel cells, electric propulsion, battery systems or power electronics considered advantageous.
- Excellent problem-solving, communication and stakeholder management skills, with a hands-on approach, continuous improvement mindset and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-growth engineering environment.
Benefits
We want to help you be your best self, at work and at home, that’s why we provide our employees with:
- Private health and dental care – get access to services and support when you need them. Add your family members too.
- Mental health support – enjoy a culture where positive mental health is front of mind with our trained Mental Health First Aiders, Employee Assistance Programmes and wellbeing support.
- Free lunch and healthy snacks – keeping you fuelled up so you can help us deliver the technology of the future.
- Sports, games and culture clubs – connect and keep fit with other ZeroAvians by joining one of our clubs – such as, running, cycling, padel, trivia, theatre and gardening.
- Stock options – so you can share in our success.
- 25 days holiday, plus public holidays and additional days awarded for long service – to help you manage your work-life balance.
- Free EV Charging and membership in our EV Club.
- Salary Sacrifice Schemes for EV Club, Curry's Tech and Cycle to Work.
- Weekly Spot Bonuses to reward excellence.
- Income Protection and Legal Support for peace of mind.
- Relocation Support to make your move seamless.
Diversity and Inclusion
As an emergent company shaping the aviation industry, we know that diversity fuels success and unlocks potential. We embrace being an equal-opportunity employer and actively seek individuals from diverse backgrounds. We value the multitude of skills, perspectives, and mindsets everyone can bring to the table. These experiences ignite creativity, originality, and growth. We proudly reject discrimination in all forms, including that based on race, religion, color, national origin, sex, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
Senior Manufacturing Engineer employer: ZeroAvia
ZeroAvia is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment at their UK Head Office in Kemble, where innovation meets the aerospace defense sector. With a strong focus on employee growth, the company provides comprehensive benefits including 25 days of holiday, healthcare, and stock options, fostering a culture of accountability and collaboration that empowers employees to drive meaningful change in the industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Manufacturing 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 ZeroAvia, 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 Senior Manufacturing 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 ZeroAvia 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 ZeroAvia
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with ZeroAvia, 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 ZeroAvia 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.
