Manufacturing Engineer
Location: Crewe
Contract: Until 23rd December 2025
Inside IRY35
35 hours per week – 4 days on-site (flexible on days)
Overview of the Role:
We are seeking a Manufacturing Engineer to support the manufacturing operations of the Seat, Trim & Build – SUV Platform, ensuring seamless production processes from pre-series through to series production and end-of-production (EOP). This role requires expertise in APQP (Advanced Product Quality Planning), jigs, fixtures, and tooling, change management, status reporting, and cross-functional collaboration.
The successful candidate will work closely with multiple departments to identify and resolve manufacturing feasibility concerns, ensuring compliance with Health & Safety, IATF16949, and VW Standards. While experience in automotive manufacturing is preferred, candidates with aerospace experience will also be considered.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Technical Responsibilities:
* Ensure Manufacturing Feasibility is evaluated in line with PEP (Product Emergence Process).
* Deliver APQP processes to ensure quality standards and audit compliance.
* Provide manufacturing sign-off for Bid Specifications and B-Release approvals.
* Identify Facility, Jig, Fixture, and Tooling requirements for production.
* Develop and refine equipment and process settings/parameters.
* Implement engineering changes effectively within assigned manufacturing zones.
* Lead issue resolution related to feasibility, process, build concerns, fixtures, and tools, using appropriate problem-solving techniques.
* Manage permits and concessions as part of regulatory compliance.
* Maintain an up-to-date knowledge base through benchmarking, training, and liaison with Group colleagues.
2. Financial Responsibilities:
* Ensure processes are delivered within budget targets.
* Manage and mitigate cost risks.
* Support justification for Capital Expenditure Investment.
* Drive cost-saving initiatives to reduce operational expenses.
* Support process improvement workshops to meet production time targets.
3. Planning & Coordination:
* Analyse and respond to business requirements, engineering changes, and technical documentation (e.g., TCD, AEKO/ECR).
* Develop milestone deliverables and monitor detailed project plans.
* Work closely with Manufacturing, Logistics, Production, and Facilities to ensure efficiency.
* Collaborate cross-functionally to influence product and process changes.
* Work alongside Mulliner to support bespoke vehicle production.
* Conduct analysis of technology measurements and controls to drive improvements.
4. Project Management:
* Deliver projects in line with business requirements for quality, cost, and timing, ensuring alignment with PEP.
* Identify and mitigate project risks proactively.
* Maintain key performance metrics, coordinating activities to resolve concerns and meet technology targets.
5. Continuous Improvement & Local Responsibilities:
* Support continuous development of production times through process refinement.
* Identify and define facility requirements for product-related investments.
* Lead project-specific activities, with responsibility for budgets up to €1M.
Essential Skills and Experience:
To be considered for the Manufacturing Engineer role, candidates must demonstrate expertise in the following areas:
* APQP (Advanced Production Quality Planning) – Strong experience in quality planning methodologies and audit compliance.
* Jig, Fixtures, and Tooling Experience – Hands-on knowledge of manufacturing tooling and fixture design.
* Change Management – Proven ability to implement and oversee engineering changes efficiently.
* Status Reporting – Experience in tracking project progress, KPI management, and stakeholder reporting.
* Cross-Functional Collaboration – Ability to work effectively across multiple departments to drive improvements.