Manufacturing Operations Engineer at Thales UK
Location: Cheadle
Clearance: SC clearance required (UK passport holder mandatory)
Working Hours: 4.5 working week (Friday from home)
About the Role
Join the Inboard Division at Cheadle Under Water Systems, where we develop and deliver advanced sonar technologies for submarines, surface vessels, autonomous mine‑hunting ships, and helicopters. We’re hiring a seasoned Manufacturing Operations Engineer to lead complex industrial initiatives and drive operational excellence across our production environment. This leadership role calls for deep expertise in New Product Introduction (NPI), industrial strategy, and transfer‑of‑work programs, ideally supported by a background in electrical, mechanical, assembly, or general manufacturing. Defence sector experience is a strong advantage. You’ll be responsible for overseeing large‑scale teams, facilities, and processes – particularly in the setup of new production lines – while shaping and executing strategic manufacturing plans. Candidates should bring broad, cross‑disciplinary knowledge in Manufacturing, Industrial, Production, or Process Engineering (maintenance engineering backgrounds are not applicable). Our projects involve low‑volume, high‑complexity builds, including custom processing cabinets, high‑performance data payloads, and precision‑engineered sub‑assemblies. You’ll work closely with expert partners, navigate challenging bids with limited data, and contribute to mission‑critical systems through meticulous planning and technical innovation. This role is ideal for analytical professionals who thrive in dynamic, high‑stakes environments.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead and manage large‑scale industrial operations, including teams, processes, and facilities to achieve business objectives.
* Plan and execute transfer‑of‑work initiatives, including setting up new production lines or manufacturing facilities, with thorough understanding of operational complexities.
* Support new product introduction by collaborating across design, development, and manufacturing teams to enable efficient product release to manufacture.
* Develop and implement industrial strategies aimed at optimizing production, efficiency, and cost‑effectiveness.
* Lead costing and estimating efforts for projects, contributing to bids, contracts, and financial planning.
* Apply knowledge of design for manufacture principles and engage in design life‑cycle considerations to enhance manufacturability and reduce costs.
* Foster a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence within the team and wider organization.
* Utilize Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP) methodologies, preferably with aerospace or automotive industry experience, to ensure high product quality standards.
Essential Experience & Skills
* Strong background in Manufacturing, Industrial, Production, or Process Engineering.
* Proven experience leading teams and managing large‑scale industrial operations.
* Demonstrated leadership in transfer‑of‑work/project setups involving new facilities or production lines.
* Exposure to new product introduction processes, supporting product development through to manufacturing release.
* Familiarity with costing, estimating, bids, and contracts in an industrial context.
* Understanding of design impact on manufacturing and Design for Manufacture (DfM) principles.
* Experience with industrial strategies and continuous improvement practices.
* Ability to lead from the front and be a critical contributor within a multidisciplinary team.
Desirable
* Experience with Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP), ideally in aerospace or automotive sectors.
Additional Information
* This position requires on‑site presence; occasional remote working may be possible but the role is fundamentally site‑based.
* Security clearance (SC) is mandatory prior to starting; candidates must hold a valid UK passport (dual nationality may affect eligibility).
What We Can Offer
* VCP Bonus
* Pension Scheme
* 28 days annual leave (Plus Bank Holidays)
* Life Cover
* Progression and Development Opportunities
* 24/7 Employee Assistance Program and access to mental wellbeing app
* Employee discount shopping schemes on major brands and retailers
EEO Commitment
Thales UK is committed to providing an inclusive and barrier‑free recruitment process. We will provide reasonable adjustments and support to ensure neuro‑diverse applicants or those with a disability or long‑term condition can be their best during the recruitment process. To request an adjustment, if you need this job advert in an alternative format or if you have any questions about the recruitment process, please contact Resourcing Ops for mid to senior roles, or the Early Careers Team for graduate and apprentice roles.
Great journeys start here, apply now!
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