Head of Production EngineeringDepartment: Production EngineeringEmployment Type: Full TimeLocation: BembridgeDescriptionEmployment type: PermanentSalary: £55,000 - £70,000Standard Hours: Flexible start / 40 hours per weekLocation: Bembridge, Isle of WightThe Head of Production Engineering is responsible for leading production engineering and manufacturing engineering activities in support of Britten‑Norman’s aircraft manufacturing and modification operations. The role ensures safe, compliant, efficient, and high‑quality manufacturing processes across aircraft assembly, structures, systems installation, and component manufacture. It combines hands‑on engineering leadership with team management to support production delivery, continuous improvement, and regulatory compliance within a low‑volume, high‑complexity aerospace environment.Key ResponsibilitiesLeadership & ManagementLead, mentor, and develop Production Engineering teamsSet engineering priorities aligned with production schedules, aircraft delivery milestones, and business objectives.Allocate engineering resources to support assembly lines, modification programmes, and NPI activity.Promote a culture of safety, compliance, accountability, and continuous improvement.Production & Operations SupportProvide day‑to‑day engineering support to aircraft assembly, systems installation, and modification activities.Resolve production issues impacting safety, quality, cost, or delivery, ensuring robust root cause analysis and corrective action.Support production planning by improving workflow, line balance, and capacity utilisation.Monitor and improve key metrics such as delivery performance, labour efficiency, and schedule adherence..Manufacturing & Production EngineeringDevelop, maintain, and optimise manufacturing processes, routings, tooling, and work instructions for aircraft and components.Support New Product Introduction (NPI), aircraft variants, design changes, and industrialisation activities.Ensure manufacturing documentation is compliant with Part 21, Part 145 (where applicable), and internal procedures.Drive standardisation and best practice across production and engineering functions.Continuous Improvement & Cost ControlLead continuous improvement initiatives appropriate to low‑volume aerospace manufacturing (Lean, Kaizen, problem‑solving)Reduce rework, non‑conformances, and manufacturing waste while maintaining airworthiness and quality standardsIdentify opportunities to improve build efficiency, flow, and cost without compromising compliance or safetySupport capital investment cases for tooling, fixtures, and equipmentTooling, Equipment & AutomationOversee the specification, design, and introduction of jigs, fixtures, and manufacturing aids for aircraft productionWork closely with Maintenance and Facilities to ensure equipment availability and safe operationSupport selective automation and digital manufacturing solutions where they add value in a high‑mix environmentQuality, Safety & Regulatory ComplianceEnsure manufacturing processes meet Britten‑Norman quality standards and regulatory requirementsWork closely with Quality and Compliance to support audits, investigations, and corrective actionsSupport root cause analysis for non‑conformances, concessions, and production escapesPromote a strong safety culture across all manufacturing and engineering activitiesCross‑Functional CollaborationWork closely with Design Engineering, Quality, Supply Chain, Production, and Planning teamsSupport supplier technical issues and manufacturing readiness where requiredProvide engineering input to programme reviews, delivery planning, and operational risk assessmentsSkills, Knowledge and ExpertiseExperience in Production Engineering or Manufacturing Engineering within an aerospace manufacturing environmentStrong understanding of aircraft manufacturing, assembly, structures, or systems installationExperience working in a regulated environment (EASA / CAA / Part 21 / Part 145)Proven ability to lead engineering teams and support live productionStrong problem‑solving skills and attention to detailDesirableExperience in low‑volume, high‑mix aerospace manufacturingKnowledge of airworthiness, configuration control, and change managementExperience with Lean principles applied to aerospace environmentsFamiliarity with digital work instructions, MRP/ERP systems, and manufacturing KPIsBenefits36 annual leave days (inclusive of Bank and Public Holidays)Contributory pension scheme with a salary sacrifice optionPrivate healthcare schemeFlu vaccinationDental and optical coverEmployee Assistance ProgramSupport with learning and professional development (courses and licenses)Health screening and therapiesDigital GPReferral bonus #J-18808-Ljbffr