Manufacturing Engineer - Automated Layup
* Location: On-site / Hybrid
* Duration: 6 months (January – June 2026)
* Start Date: ASAP
Morson is currently recruiting an experienced Manufacturing Engineer with Automated Layup / AFP (Automated Fibre Placement) Technical Specialist experience to support a major capital acquisition project for our Composites Manufacturing client in the Bristol area. This short-term contract role will focus on developing a comprehensive technical specification for new Automated Fibre Placement (AFP) system(s), working closely with internal stakeholders, customers, and equipment suppliers.
This is an excellent opportunity for a contractor with strong experience in industrial equipment specification and capability acquisition, particularly within advanced manufacturing environments.
Role Purpose
To act as a technical specification authority for automated lay-up (composites), developing a detailed technical specification for new Automated Fibre Placement (AFP) system(s). The role will also support EI (Engineering Instruction) specification writing, authoring composite manufacturing documentation and producing manufacturing demonstrators to validate requirements and processes.
Key Responsibilities
* Act as a technical authority for automated lay-up and composites manufacturing within the HRMCap project.
* Develop and author a comprehensive technical specification for new AFP system(s), covering areas including:
o Tool changers
o Heating systems
o Services required at the head
o In-process inspection capability
o FAT and SAT activities
* Gather, manage, and consolidate requirements from internal stakeholders, including engineering teams, project teams, and the wider business.
* Author composite manufacturing documentation, including EI-level specifications and supporting technical instructions.
* Produce manufacturing demonstrators to validate manufacturing processes, equipment capability, and specification assumptions.
* Engage with external parties, including:
o The customer driving the acquisition
o Equipment suppliers, ensuring feasibility, compliance, and integration
* Translate business and technical requirements into clear, structured, and actionable technical documentation.
* Ensure all specifications align with existing equipment, standards, and operational requirements.
* Provide technical input and support during supplier engagement, technical reviews, and the procurement process.
* ocurement process.
Essential Skills & Experience
* Proven industrial experience in capability acquisition, ideally within composites or advanced manufacturing (experience specifying large industrial equipment is also acceptable).
* Demonstrated ability to produce technical specifications for complex machinery or systems .
* Strong stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to work effectively across engineering, project management, and business teams.
* Experience working with equipment suppliers and understanding system integration challenges.
* Strong requirements-management skills with the ability to convert needs into actionable technical documentation.
Desirable Experience
* Familiarity with Automated Fibre Placement (AFP) technology or similar advanced manufacturing systems.
* Knowledge of tool changers, heating systems, and in-process inspection technologies.
* Background in composites manufacturing, aerospace, or automotive sectors.