Manufacturing Engineer

High Wycombe

Copello are working with an international defence client who are seeking a motivated and skilled Manufacturing Engineer to join their dynamic team. This role offers the opportunity to design, develop, implement, and optimise manufacturing processes for aerospace antennas and associated technologies.

As a key member of the team, you will leverage your expertise to enhance manufacturing efficiency while ensuring the production of high-quality products within a highly regulated environment. Collaboration will be central to the role, as you’ll partner with cross-functional teams, including design, quality and production, to align objectives and streamline operations.

Key Responsibilities

Manufacturing Support

• Provide real-time technical support to resolve production issues, including equipment failures, quality concerns and process inefficiencies.
• Conduct root cause analysis and implement corrective actions to minimise downtime, improve process reliability and optimise production flow.
• Lead and collaborate cross-functionally with teams including Quality Control, Production and Maintenance to address and resolve production challenges.
• Identify and implement opportunities for process optimisation, cost reduction and continuous improvement across manufacturing operations.
• Specify, design and integrate tools, jigs, fixtures and other manufacturing aids to streamline production processes and improve efficiency.
• Develop, update and maintain comprehensive production documentation, including job routings and work instructions.
• Monitor and analyse production data to track performance, identify trends and recommend improvements.

New Product Development

• Support Design for Manufacture (DFM) activities for new and existing products.
• Manage manufacturing activities during the transition from development into production.
• Identify and mitigate manufacturing risks relating to component obsolescence, reliability and production readiness.

Test & Validation

• Provide support for RF testing, validation and performance verification of antenna designs and associated components, ensuring alignment with technical specifications.
• Coordinate with test and production teams to investigate and resolve testing discrepancies, failure modes and production issues.
• Support the development and implementation of robust manufacturing and test processes to ensure consistent product performance and quality.

Qualifications and Experience

• Qualified in Manufacturing, Electrical Engineering or a related technical discipline, with experience working with electronic and RF components.
• Proven experience in a manufacturing, production engineering or technical role, ideally within aerospace, defence, electronics, RF, antenna or a similar industry.
• Experience working within a highly regulated environment, ideally involving complex or legacy product designs.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, equipment and quality systems.
• Experience identifying and delivering productivity improvements and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills, with experience in root cause analysis and corrective action.
• Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing principles and Six Sigma methodologies would be advantageous.
• Knowledge of quality standards such as EN9100 would be advantageous.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills, with the ability to collaborate with production teams, engineers, quality functions and leadership.
• Understanding of health and safety regulations and a commitment to maintaining a safe working environment.