We are partnering with an established and growing aerospace manufacturing organisation specialising in precision-engineered components, seeking a Senior Manufacturing Engineer & NPI Manager to join their engineering function. This is a high-impact role where you will take ownership of New Product Introduction (NPI), driving projects from initial quotation through to successful production launch while improving manufacturing performance across the business. As a key member of the engineering team, you will lead NPI activity and play a critical role in developing robust, efficient manufacturing processes for complex aerospace components. You will work cross-functionally with engineering, quality, production, and suppliers to ensure products are delivered on time, on cost, and to the highest quality standards.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead the end-to-end NPI process from RFQ through to production approval
* Apply APQP methodologies to identify and mitigate manufacturing and supply chain risks
* Develop, implement, and continuously improve manufacturing processes
* Produce and maintain manufacturing routings, process maps, and work instructions
* Analyse and support engineering change requests and implementation
* Lead and support root cause analysis for non-conformance investigations
* Collaborate with CNC programmers, production teams, and suppliers to optimise performance and reduce cost
* Drive continuous improvement initiatives (lean, 5S, waste reduction)
* Conduct process validation and establish process controls
* Provide technical input into quotations and contract reviews
* Act as deputy to the Engineering Manager when required
About You
You will be an experienced manufacturing engineer with strong NPI expertise, ideally within aerospace or a highly regulated industry.
Essential Experience
* Minimum 5 years’ experience in a manufacturing environment
* Proven experience managing NPI projects (ideally 3 years)
* Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, materials, and machining
* Experience with process development, optimisation, and improvement
* Working knowledge of AS9100 / ISO 9001 quality systems
* Strong understanding of APQP, FMEA, and risk mitigation tools
* Experience with ERP/MRP systems
* Excellent problem-solving, communication, and collaboration skills
* Lean manufacturing knowledge (5S, continuous improvement)
Desirable
* Aerospace sector experience
* CAD/CAM familiarity
What’s on Offer
* Competitive salary
* 25 days holiday + 8 bank holidays
* Cycle to Work scheme
* Electric Vehicle (EV) scheme
* Simply Health Plan
* Opportunity to work on complex aerospace projects in a growing business
* A role with real autonomy and influence across engineering and production
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