Manufacturing Engineer

New Job Opportunity - Manufacturing Readiness Engineer - 12 Month Contract - Based in Rugby, Warwickshire

IR35 Status: Inside IR35

Rate: Negotiable dependent on experience

About Our Client

Our client is at the forefront of the global fight against climate change, delivering technologies that power the world, support the decarbonisation of industry, and enhance global security through advanced electrical solutions. This is an opportunity to contribute to meaningful, high-impact work.

Based at their Rotating Machines Rugby (RMR) facility, our client designs and manufactures some of the world’s most advanced electrical rotating machinery, including large motors and generators used across a wide range of industrial applications. These products support both critical infrastructure and the transition to a more sustainable future.

The Manufacturing Readiness & Technologies (MRT) Team, part of the Engineering Department, focuses on developing and implementing innovative manufacturing technologies. The team plays a key role in improving efficiency, reducing cost, and ensuring new projects are fully prepared for successful execution.

Role Overview

Reporting to the Manufacturing Readiness & Technologies Leader, the Lead Manufacturing Readiness Engineer will play a key role in driving Lean initiatives across manufacturing processes and operational areas. The role is responsible for leading cultural transformation and delivering measurable improvements in safety, quality, delivery, and cost.

You will coach, lead, and embed Lean principles and behaviours across the organisation, enabling step-change improvements in business performance.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead capital investment (Capex) projects from proposal and cost-benefit analysis through to installation, commissioning, and handover
• Drive Lean and Kaizen improvement initiatives to enhance manufacturing efficiency
• Plan and coordinate preparation activities, including installation and commissioning of new equipment and contractor supervision
• Track and report on Kaizen initiatives, including cost savings and performance improvements
• Develop and present business cases to senior leadership to secure funding and support
• Analyse workflows, space utilisation, and equipment layout to maximise efficiency
• Mentor and support the development of junior engineers, fostering a strong team culture

You will also work cross-functionally as part of a global engineering team to ensure high levels of customer satisfaction, both internally and externally.

Candidate Profile

We are looking for a motivated and experienced engineering professional with strong leadership capabilities and a passion for continuous improvement.

Essential Skills & Experience

• Proven experience as a Lean leader with the ability to drive organisational change
• Strong engineering background, ideally with CAD design experience (preferably Creo)
• Demonstrated experience in leading Lean/Kaizen initiatives
• Ability to set and achieve ambitious goals with a proactive, self-driven mindset
• Excellent organisational, time management, and decision-making skills
• Strong attention to detail and a structured, methodical approach
• High level of computer literacy, including Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
• Broad knowledge of manufacturing processes and best practices
• Strong communication, presentation, and negotiation skills
• Experience working in cross-functional, multi-disciplinary teams
• Ability to read and interpret complex engineering drawings and documentation
• Proven experience leading engineering design and design reviews
• Capability to train shopfloor operators and communicate complex processes effectively
• Experience engaging with stakeholders up to senior management level

Additional Attributes

• Strong influencing and change management skills
• Flexible approach, with willingness to travel and work extended hours when required
• Ability to work on multiple projects in a dynamic environment while delivering against EHS, Quality, Delivery, and Cost metrics

Company information

At First Recruitment Group we understand just how important it is to secure the right people. That is why our Recruitment Consultants always take the time to understand requirements in detail and offer sound advice to both clients and candidates.  We actively recruit at all levels and this is a superb opportunity for a Manufacturing Engineer looking for new employment.

As part of putting people first, we strive to be an equal opportunities employer and we are always looking to increase the diversity of our workforce, working closely with our clients to ensure everyone is included.