Cramlington, United Kingdom | Posted on 04/22/2026
Manufacturing Engineer – Forging & Machining
The Role
* We are looking for a hands‑on, driven Manufacturing Engineer to take ownership of manufacturing performance across our forging, machining, and secondary operations.
* This is not a desk‑based role. You will be expected to be on the shop floor, resolving issues in real time, driving standards, and ensuring processes are robust, repeatable, and production‑ready.
You will play a key role in supporting and improving operations across:
* Press Shop (1300T / 1600T / 4000T press suite)
* CNC machining & secondary operations
* Your focus: improve output, reduce downtime, eliminate waste, and stabilise production.
Key Responsibilities
Process Ownership & Improvement
* Take full ownership of manufacturing processes — if it runs poorly, you fix it
* Improve cycle times, throughput, and yield
* Standardise processes to remove variation and operator dependency
Shop Floor Problem Solving
* Be present on the shop floor during issues — not managing via email
* Lead structured root cause analysis (8D, 5 Why, fault finding)
Resolve chronic issues including:
* Press stoppages
* Induction instability
* Scrap trends
Deliver real, measurable improvements:
* OEE improvement
* Downtime reduction
* Scrap reduction
* Implement Lean tools properly (5S, Standard Work, Visual Management)
* Challenge poor practices — “we’ve always done it this way” isn’t acceptable
Process Control & Documentation
* SOPs
* Work instructions
* Process flows
* Ensure documentation reflects actual working practice
* Implement controls to prevent repeat failures
NPI & Process Validation
* Lead new product introduction from concept to production
* Define processes, tooling, and trials
* Support validation through capability studies and sign‑offs
Data-Driven Performance
* OEE
* Scrap
* Downtime
* Use data to drive action, not just reporting
* Deliver measurable improvements
Tooling & Equipment Support
* Work with Toolroom to eliminate repeat failures and poor quality
Cross-Functional Working
* Work closely with Production, Maintenance, and Quality
Compliance & Safety
* HSE
* PUWER
* UKCA requirements
Skills & Experience
* HNC/HND or Degree in Mechanical / Manufacturing Engineering
* Experience in forging, heavy engineering, or automotive manufacturing
* Strong background in process improvement within production environments
* Strong Experience with CAD (Fusion 360 or similar)
Good understanding of:
* PFMEA, Control Plans, SPC
* Structured problem solving (8D, 5 Why)
What We’re Looking For (Fit)
* Self‑driven and able to work on own initiative
* Comfortable in a fast‑paced, hands‑on environment
* Willing to challenge poor standards
* Strong shop floor presence — visible and accountable
* Focused on solutions, not excuses
Key KPIs
* Reduction in scrap and rework
* OEE improvement across key processes
* Reduction in downtime (press & machining)
* Demonstrated cost savings
* Reduction in repeat issues / firefighting
Additional Expectations
* Be on‑site and engaged from the start of shift
* Support production start‑up where required
* Deliver improvements that are visible within weeks, not months
* Maintain high standards of documentation and accountability
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