Manufacturing Engineer
Location: Near Luton (Bedfordshire)
Salary: Up to £55,000 + Annual Bonus + Benefits
Contract: Permanent, Full-Time (On-site)
Company: Global Engineering & Manufacturing Leader

• Lead Continuous Improvement initiatives using Kaizen, SMED, Six Sigma, 5S, 8D, and Value Stream Mapping
• Develop, optimise, and standardise manufacturing processes across machining (CNC, turning, milling), welding/fabrication, and mechanical assembly
• Implement robust process controls and error-proofing (Poka-Yoke) with clear work standards and visual management
• Support NPI from concept through to volume launch and ramp-up (DFM/DFA, build sequencing, SOPs)
• Specify, commission, and validate equipment, tooling, fixtures, and test systems
• Drive cost reduction via process optimisation and value engineering
• Prepare CapEx business cases (technical justification, ROI/NPV, payback, CBA)
• Contribute to capital investment planning and execution with cross-functional teams

Must-haves

• HND/Degree in Mechanical, Manufacturing, or Industrial Engineering
• Experience in volume manufacturing of engineered products (e.g., industrial equipment, capital machinery, precision components, fabricated assemblies)
• Hands-on Lean problem-solving (RCA, 8D, DMAIC) with measurable outcomes
• Knowledge of automated assembly, tooling, fixtures, and test equipment
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings and manufacturing specifications

Nice-to-haves

• Six Sigma Green/Black Belt
• Experience delivering CapEx projects and line/equipment installations
• Exposure to PFMEA, Control Plans, MSA, and SPC

Adaptable, disciplined, and ambitious. A strategic thinker who thrives under pressure, communicates clearly across functions, and brings a proactive, 'own the outcome' mentality.

• Up to £55,000 base + Annual Bonus
• Pension, Life Cover, 25 days' holiday + additional purchase scheme
• Flexible working hours (on-site)
• Career development in a global organisation

Commutable from: Luton, Dunstable, Leighton Buzzard, Milton Keynes, Aylesbury, Hemel Hempstead, St Albans, Harpenden, Hitchin, Bedford, Biggleswade, Letchworth Garden City, Stevenage, Watford.

How to apply: Click Apply with your CV or reach out for a confidential chat.
We're an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered without regard to protected characteristics. You must have the right to work in the UK.

Keywords: Manufacturing Engineer, Continuous Improvement, Lean Manufacturing, Kaizen, SMED, Six Sigma, Value Stream Mapping, Process Improvement, Machining, CNC, Welding, Fabrication, Assembly, CapEx Projects, Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Process Optimisation, Error Proofing, Tooling, Fixtures, Engineering Drawings, Green Belt, Black Belt, Luton, Bedfordshire.

To find out more about Progressive please visit

JBRP1_UKTJ