Design & Manufacturing Manager
Knowsley, Merseyside | Full-time | Attractive with benefits
Only candidates with the legal right to work in the UK will be considered for this position.
My Client is a leading provider of fluid power solutions, specialising in hydraulic components, systems, and services. With a strong reputation for technical excellence and customer service, They continues to expand its operations and deliver high-quality engineered products across multiple industries.
Role Overview
My client is seeking an experienced Design & Manufacturing Manager to lead our Manufacturing Engineering team and oversee the seamless transition of projects from concept through to production and delivery. This is a key leadership role responsible for managing a team of four Design Engineers, coordinating with multiple departments, and ensuring products are designed, manufactured, and delivered to specification, on time and within budget.
Key Responsibilities
* Manage, mentor, and develop a team of four Design Engineers, promoting best practices and continuous improvement.
* Oversee the design and development of hydraulic systems, components, and assemblies using CAD software.
* Liaise closely with the Manufacturing and Workshop teams to ensure designs are practical, manufacturable, and meet quality standards.
* Collaborate with internal departments — including Sales, Purchasing, and Operations — to ensure design intent aligns with customer requirements and delivery schedules.
* Review and approve engineering drawings, technical documentation, and BOMs.
* Manage and resolve technical queries during design, production, and assembly phases.
* Ensure materials and components are checked, validated, and available to meet project timelines.
* Contribute to process improvements and standardisation within design and manufacturing functions.
* Support project planning, resource allocation, and workload management across the design team.
* Maintain compliance with relevant engineering standards, safety requirements, and company procedures.
Skills & Experience Required
* Proven experience in a Design Manager, Engineering Manager, or Senior Design Engineer role within a manufacturing environment.
* Strong understanding of hydraulic systems and fluid power design principles.
* Proficient in CAD software (e.g. SolidWorks, AutoCAD, or similar).
* Excellent leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate and guide technical staff.
* Strong communication and interpersonal abilities to liaise effectively with cross-functional teams.
* Detail-oriented with strong organisational and problem-solving skills.
* Familiarity with materials selection, production planning, and quality control processes.
Desirable Qualifications
* Degree or HNC/HND in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline.
* Experience working within a hydraulics, mechanical systems, or industrial equipment manufacturing environment.
* Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing or Continuous Improvement principles.
The benefits are as follows
* Attractive salary with benefits – depending on experience.
* Discretionary annual bonus of up to 15% of annual salary.
* Holiday entitlement of 25 days per annum + 8 bank holidays.
* Company pension scheme (5% employee contribution, 3% employer contribution).
* Life Assurance scheme (3 x annual salary for death in service).
* Access to the BeSupported AXA Employee Assistance Programme.