Job Title: Machine Shop Manufacturing Engineer
Leicester, LEC, GB, LE49JD
The Machine Shop Manufacturing Engineer is responsible for defining, supporting, and continuously improving machining processes to ensure the safe, efficient, and cost‑effective manufacture of high‑precision components. The role focuses on CNC and manual machining activities (including Grinding and Diamond Turning), process capability, tooling, fixtures, and work holding, supporting both existing production and new product introduction (NPI). The Manufacturing Engineer works closely with Production, Quality, Supply Chain, and Design Engineering to achieve operational excellence in the Machine Shop.
Position Summary
The Machine Shop Manufacturing Engineer is responsible for defining, supporting, and continuously improving machining processes to ensure the safe, efficient, and cost‑effective manufacture of high‑precision components. The role focuses on CNC and manual machining activities (including Grinding and Diamond Turning), process capability, tooling, fixtures, and work holding, supporting both existing production and new product introduction (NPI). The Manufacturing Engineer works closely with Production, Quality, Supply Chain, and Design Engineering to achieve operational excellence in the Machine Shop.
Main duties/Responsibilities:
- Develop, implement, and optimise machining processes for CNC and manual machine shop operations (turning, milling, grinding, and ultra‑precision processes where applicable).
- Define routing, standard cycle times, tooling, fixtures, cutting strategies, and work instructions to support safe and repeatable manufacture.
- Support New Product Introduction (NPI) by reviewing designs for manufacturability (DFM) and defining robust manufacturing processes.
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on quality, cost, delivery, and safety (Lean, Six Sigma, waste elimination, OEE improvement).
- Troubleshoot machining issues and provide hands‑on technical support to production teams to resolve quality, scrap, rework, or capacity constraints.
- Specify and justify capital equipment, tooling, fixtures, and gauges to meet current and future manufacturing requirements.
- Work closely with Quality to define inspection strategies, control plans, and process capability (Cp/Cpk).
- Ensure all machine shop activities comply with health & safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements.
- Maintain accurate and up‑to‑date manufacturing data within the ERP system, including routings, BOMs, and process documentation.
- Contribute to cross‑functional problem‑solving, improvement workshops, and project teams.Essential Skills:
- Strong background in manufacturing engineering within a precision machine shop environment.
- Practical knowledge of CNC machining processes (turning, milling, grinding) and manual machining principles.
- Ability to interpret complex engineering drawings, GD&T, and surface finish requirements.
- Experience with tooling selection, fixturing, work holding, and cutting tool optimisation.
- Understanding of Lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement techniques.
- Strong problem‑solving skills with a data‑driven approach.
- Effective communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively across multiple disciplines.
Desirable Skills:
- Experience working with ERP systems (e.g. MS Navision or similar).
- Project management experience supporting NPI or capital investment projects.
- Exposure to ultra‑precision machining, optics, or high‑tolerance components.
Required Personal Attributes:
- Proactive “can‑do” attitude with a continuous improvement mindset.
- Strong teamwork and influencing skills.
- Ability to challenge existing processes constructively and drive positive change.
- Knowledge of control plans, and statistical process control.
- Experience in global sourcing and machining supply chain.
- Creative and analytical thinker with excellent attention to detail.
- Ability and desire to mentor and support shop‑floor colleagues.
- Highly organised and self‑motivated.
Qualifications or relevant work experience:
- Degree or HND in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline (or equivalent experience).
- Minimum of 5 years’ experience in a similar manufacturing engineering role within a machine shop or precision manufacturing environment.