Hutchinson Engineering is seeking an experienced, ambitious manufacturing professional to lead the next stage of our manufacturing development. This senior, hands-on role reports to the Operations Director and works closely with Production Management and the Technical Manager.
You will drive process improvement, own new product introduction (NPI), lead a team of design engineers on DfM activity and a team of junior manufacturing technicians that you’ll mentor and develop. It’s a chance to make a visible impact on a growing, technology-focused business, including the development of advanced manufacturing cells and robotic welding.
Key Responsibilities:
Process Improvement
- Lead a structured improvement programme across cutting, folding, fabrication, welding, assembly and finishing, targeting productivity, right-first-time quality and cost.
- Analyse variance and defect data to prioritise actions, and work with Production to develop practical, sustainable solutions.
- Standardise processes and ensure improvements are permanently embedded.
New Product Introduction
- Own NPI, embedding a proportionate PFMEA approach to pre-production planning.
- Support equipment and technology selection, drive schedule adherence for DfM activity & first off builds.
- Review new processes after launch to drive further optimisation and engage customers on DfM opportunities.
Advanced Manufacturing & Automation
- Develop selective automation suited to a high-mix, low-volume environment, including robotic welding and machine tending.
- Track emerging technologies and propose investments with clear RoI.
- Work with the Technical Manager and external integrators to ensure effective implementation of new manufacturing technology.
- Embed a practical CI culture focused on measurable gains in production flow, not Lean methodology for its own sake.
Candidate Profile
- Significant manufacturing engineering or CI experience in a production environment, with a track record of measurable improvements.
- Experience introducing new processes, equipment or technologies and leading projects from concept to implementation.
- Strong practical process knowledge, structured problem-solving and root-cause analysis skills.
- Solid grasp of manufacturing performance measures.
- Experience coaching or developing less experienced technical staff.
- Visible, hands-on, and people-focused leadership style
- Excellent communication skills, comfortable at both strategic and shop-floor level.
- Previous engineering or leadership role in a sheet metal cut, fold and fabrication environment.
- Good understanding of advanced welding process controls (e.g. ISO 3834, ASME IX, AWS D1.1)
- Experience scoping and implementing robotics
- Experience developing a Lean manufacturing culture
- Operating knowledge of ERP/MRP systems
A degree in Manufacturing, Mechanical, Mechatronic or Industrial Engineering (or related) is advantageous, though substantial relevant experience will also be considered.
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