Job Title: Manufacturing Project Engineer
Location: Tonbridge, Kent Area (some national travel required)
Job Type: Full time
Reports To: CTO/Founder
Industry: Advanced Materials / Ceramic Membranes / Water Filtration
About Us
Microtech Ceramics Limited is an innovative start-up pioneering the development and commercialisation of advanced ceramic membrane technologies. Our mission is to revolutionise filtration systems through high-performance, sustainable, and cost-effective ceramic solutions for industries ranging from water treatment to carbon capture. As we develop our production capabilities, we are seeking a hands-on, driven Manufacturing Project Engineer to join our growing team.
Job Summary
We are looking for a Manufacturing Project Engineer to lead and support the development, optimization, and scaling of ceramic membrane manufacturing processes. This role requires a proactive individual with a strong technical background, a passion for problem-solving, and the flexibility to work in a fast-paced startup environment. You’ll work cross-functionally to design processes, improve efficiency, oversee projects, and help bring new membrane products to market.
Key Responsibilities
* Develop and optimize manufacturing processes for ceramic membrane production, including material formulation, extrusion, binding, sintering, and post-treatment.
* Design and implement pilot-scale and production-scale equipment and workflows.
* Manage and execute projects related to process scale-up, automation, cost reduction, and quality improvement.
* Collaborate with R&D, and operations to transfer lab-scale processes to production.
* Analyse production data and lead continuous improvement initiatives.
* Specify and source equipment, materials, and components for production line setup.
* Draft process documentation including SOPs, control plans, and safety protocols.
* Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations.
* Assist in hiring and training manufacturing technicians as the company grows.
Required Qualifications
* Bachelor's degree (or higher) in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field.
* 3+ years of experience in manufacturing or process engineering (start-up or ceramic/filtration background preferred).
* Hands-on experience with ceramic materials, furnaces, binders, extrusion, or related processes.
* Strong project management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
* Familiarity with CAD, process simulation tools, and data analysis software.
* Excellent problem-solving skills and mechanical aptitude.
* Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Preferred skills
* Experience in filtration or ceramic manufacturing.
* Knowledge of binders and their role in ceramic processing.
* Experience working in a start-up or early-stage manufacturing environment.
* Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
* Lean, Six Sigma or similar process improvement training.
* Full UK Driving Licence.
What We Offer
* Opportunity to shape and scale cutting-edge ceramic technology manufacturing.
* Dynamic and collaborative start-up culture with high impact potential.
* Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
* Flexible work hours and supportive leadership.
Eligibility: Applicants must have the right to work in the UK at the time of application. We are not able to provide visa sponsorship for this role.
Application Deadline: Sunday, 28 July 2025, at 23:59 (UK time)
We encourage early applications, as interviews may begin before the deadline.
Anticipated Start Date: 1 September 2025 (with some flexibility for the right candidate).