Senior Engineer Location: Dorset Sector: Composites Manufacturing | Marine Defence | Aerospace | UAVs About the Company They are a well-established UK manufacturer of large composite structures and GRP mouldings, operating across multiple sites in Dorset. Since 1985, they have provided a full composites manufacturing service, from design and engineering through to parts manufacture and final assembly. They work with leading organisations across defence, aerospace, marine, and industrial sectors. Their mission is to continue growing their client portfolio while remaining at the forefront of composites manufacturing through innovation, advanced processes, and sustainable solutions. They foster a strong team culture that encourages development, collaboration, and continuous improvement, offering long-term career opportunities within a stable and growing business. The Role They are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Senior Engineer to join their team. This role is responsible for managing all activities required to successfully deliver assigned projects from initial design through to completion. The position requires a practical, hands-on approach, strong problem-solving skills, and experience working within a quality-controlled manufacturing environment (ideally AS9100 or similar). The successful candidate will work closely with the Engineering Manager and Operations Manager, collaborating across engineering, manufacturing, and quality teams to ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest standards. Key Responsibilities Manufacturing Process Development & Improvement Develop and implement new manufacturing processes and equipment for new products Drive continuous improvement of existing processes and work packages Optimise production using Lean methodologies, including 5S, value stream mapping, and root cause analysis Conduct feasibility studies and develop manufacturing plans, including layouts, work cells, and facility upgrades Support prototype builds and resolve technical issues prior to full-scale production Champion best practice and continuous improvement initiatives within manufacturing Project & Stakeholder Management Lead manufacturing development projects from concept to production launch Manage project budgets, schedules, and reporting Prepare and justify CAPEX requests for new equipment and tooling Chair and sign off design reviews for tooling (internal and external manufacture) Support the Engineering Manager with team leadership and recruitment activities Technical Leadership Provide technical authority for complex manufacturing and production challenges Develop and approve technical documentation, including standard work instructions, process maps, and validation documentation Review and approve engineering drawings and CAD data, ensuring compliance with Health & Safety and regulatory requirements Mentor engineers and promote Lean and continuous improvement principles Experience & Qualifications Minimum of 8 years' experience in a technical or manufacturing environment Strong experience working with composites (prepreg experience desirable but not essential) Proficient in CAD software (Siemens NX, SolidWorks, or Rhino preferred) HNC or Degree in Engineering or a related discipline Proven ability to manage fast-paced, complex engineering projects Key Skills Excellent problem-solving and decision-making capability Strong project planning and time management skills Commercial awareness with a focus on cost, quality, and delivery Effective communicator across cross-functional teams and external stakeholders Security Requirements This role is subject to security checks. Successful candidates will be required to complete and pass Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks and, where applicable, National Security Vetting (NSV). Details of security requirements will be provided as part of any conditional job offer.