** Permanent Role - Hitchin based - Production and Design Engineer**
Pay: £37,000.00-£42,000.00 per year DOE
Company Overview
We are a SME manufacturing business specialising in beautiful, high-quality architectural ironmongery for a discerning client base. Our products are crafted with care, precision, and a deep respect for design, serving architects, designers, and clients who value detail and excellence.
Role Overview
Due to expansion and an exciting number of new projects, we have this newly created role within our existing engineering team, introduced to support business growth and enhance our design and manufacturing capability. The Production & Design Engineer will play a key role in developing design variants of existing product ranges, ensuring accurate technical documentation, and supporting the smooth flow of information and tooling into manufacturing operations.
The role offers a blend of design engineering, process support, and involvement in business improvement projects, from small-scale workflow enhancements to major capital equipment investments. As such, it is ideal for a candidate seeking long-term development, broad exposure, and increasing responsibility.
Key Responsibilities
Design & Engineering Support:
* Develop design variants and modifications to existing products using SolidWorks
* Produce and maintain accurate 3D CAD models, assemblies, and drawings
* Create and maintain manufacturing data within the MRP/ERP system (Epicor)
* Generate and update BOMs, routings, tooling documentation, and configuration logic
* Support introduction of new or modified designs into manufacturing, ensuring smooth transition into production
Manufacturing & Operational Support:
* Collaborate with production teams to resolve technical issues, improve manufacturability, and optimise workflow
* Provide engineering input across the full process chain: presswork, CNC machining, polishing, plating, painting, and assembly
* Produce jigs, fixtures, and tooling designs as required (including potential future use of SolidCAM and Trumpf Boost)
Continuous Improvement & Development Projects:
* Support business improvement initiatives ranging from incremental process improvements to larger-scale capital acquisition projects
* Participate in root cause analysis, problem-solving exercises, and structured CI engagements
* Contribute to automation, workflow optimisation, tooling upgrades, and capability enhancement across the site
Systems & Software:
Over time, the successful candidate will gain experience in:
* SolidWorks – CAD modelling and drafting
* SolidCAM – CNC interface and toolpath integration
* DriveWorks – rules based design automation
* Epicor ERP – manufacturing data, BOMs, and routings
* Trumpf Boost – programming and optimisation for sheet metal and press tooling
External Engagement:
* Occasional travel to suppliers and customers for technical reviews, issue resolution, design discussions, and project collaboration
Qualifications - Essential:
* Proven experience in a production or design role within a manufacturing environment
* Experience using SolidWorks, Inventor, or similar 3D CAD software
* Familiarity with an ERP/MRP system (Epicor preferred)
* Understanding of mechanical/production engineering principles
* Ability to interpret engineering drawings and specifications
* Analytical and detail-oriented with a proactive, problem-solving mindset
* Ability to thrive in a hands-on SME environment
* Strong organisational skills with attention to detail, capable of managing multiple priorities effectively
* Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, to liaise effectively with internal stakeholders
Qualifications - Desirable:
* Background in precision metalwork, product variants, or aesthetic consumer hardware
* Experience with machining, presswork, or finishing processes
* Exposure to continuous improvement tools and methodologies
* Interest in developing skills in CAM, design automation, and manufacturing optimisation
Personal Attributes:
* Positive attitude with a desire to grow and take on more responsibility over time
* Detail-focused, organised, and comfortable juggling multiple tasks
* Collaborative with a natural curiosity about manufacturing processes
* Motivated by producing beautiful, compliant, high-quality products
What We Offer:
* Competitive salary and benefits package
* A key role in a growing, design-focused manufacturing business
* A collaborative and creative working environment
* A new role with strong potential for personal and professional growth
* Opportunity to shape and enhance an internationally recognised product range
* Supportive team environment within a well established engineering department
* Training in advanced software and manufacturing systems
To apply, please submit your CV to HR@roydeandtucker.com
Benefits:
* Company pension
* Cycle to work scheme
* Free parking
* Life insurance
* On-site parking
Experience:
* Epicor ERM/MRP: 1 year (required)
* SolidWorks, Inventor or 3D CAD software: 1 year (required)
Licence/Certification:
* Right to work in the UK documentation (required)
Work Location: In person, Hitchin based