Job Title: Lead Production Engineer
Location: Gloucestershire
Salary: £50k -£53k
Contract Type: Permanent
Hours: 37 hrs/week (Mon–Fri)
Role Summary
The Lead Production Engineer is responsible for optimising manufacturing processes, improving product and process quality, and enhancing production flow across value streams. The role also supports new product introduction and ensures consistent use of standard Production Engineering methods and tools.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead Production Engineering development and training aligned to APQP standards.
* Support daily engineering activities and deputise for the Production Engineering Manager.
* Complete PFMEA, Control Plans and ensure accurate, up-to-date SOPs.
* Develop and maintain process maps using tools such as VSM, Yamazumi, Spaghetti diagrams and MOST time studies.
* Drive process efficiency, flow improvements and waste reduction initiatives.
* Monitor process data, identify issues and support improvements to OEE.
* Lead Production Engineering activities for new product and process introductions.
* Support Lean events, root cause analysis, corrective actions and preventive measures.
* Assist with audits, compliance requirements and development of procedures.
* Manage tooling within the assigned value stream.
Skills & Experience
Essential:
* Strong Process/Production Engineering experience in complex manufacturing (pressing, CNC, assembly).
* Proficient with Production Engineering tools (VSM, Yamazumi, MOST, SPC, SOPs).
* Able to interpret engineering drawings incl. GD&T.
* Strong problem-solving, analytical and communication skills.
* Knowledge of process safety and regulatory requirements.
* Able to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
Desirable:
* CNC programming experience.
* Experience designing new processes and applying Lean tools (5S, SMED, Jidoka, Single Piece Flow).
* Familiarity with project management tools and APQP/PPAP processes.
Attributes
* Methodical, detail-focused and organised.
* Strong leadership and mentoring skills.
* Self-motivated, proactive and adaptable to change.
* Completer–finisher mindset