Production Engineering & Test Manager

The Opportunity

This is a key leadership role within a highly regulated aerospace and defence manufacturing environment, responsible for shaping and driving Production Engineering and Test performance.

You'll lead from the front-developing a high-performing engineering team, improving manufacturing flow, and embedding lean and continuous improvement at the heart of operations.

This role suits someone who thrives in a hands-on, fast-paced environment and enjoys balancing strategic thinking with day-to-day operational delivery, while helping transition the business into a more mature, scalable manufacturing operation.

What You'll Be Doing

• Leading and developing a team of Production & Test Engineers, driving performance and accountability
• Designing and optimising production flow lines to improve throughput, yield, and efficiency
• Driving improvements in manufacturing yield through structured problem solving (e.g. fishbone diagrams, fault code Pareto analysis, and clear action planning)
• Identifying root causes of production issues and implementing sustainable corrective actions
• Supporting the transition from an NPI-focused environment to a scalable, repeatable manufacturing operation
• Embedding and driving lean manufacturing principles (5S, VSM, Kaizen, SMED, standard work)
• Leading structured problem-solving activities (8D, FMEA, root cause analysis)
• Developing robust work instructions and standardised processes to improve consistency and quality
• Delivering measurable improvements across quality, delivery, and cost
• Supporting manufacturing with robust, reliable engineering solutions
• Driving continuous improvement initiatives across processes and operations
• Championing digitisation and data-driven decision making, including exposure to AI and advanced analytics
• Ensuring compliance with AS9100 and regulatory standards
• Leading capital investment and process improvement projects
• Supporting NPI activities and transition from design into production

What We're Looking For

• Degree-qualified in an Engineering discipline
• Proven experience within production or manufacturing engineering
• Previous team leadership or supervisory experience
• Strong background in lean manufacturing and continuous improvement (essential)
• Proven ability to improve manufacturing yield using structured, data-led problem solving tools
• Experience working in environments transitioning from NPI into full-scale manufacturing
• Knowledge of AS9100 or equivalent quality standards
• Strong problem-solving skills with a structured, data-led approach
• Comfortable working cross-functionally with manufacturing, quality, and supply chain teams
• Exposure to digital manufacturing, data analytics, or automation is advantageous

Why Apply?

• Competitive salary + 10% bonus
• 9-day fortnight & half day Fridays
• Flexible working with some hybrid options
• 25 days holiday + bank holidays (with option to buy more)
• Private healthcare & health cash plan
• Pension with 6% employer contribution
• Life assurance (4x salary)
• Ongoing training, development & progression opportunities
• Relocation support available

Additional Information

• Must be eligible for SC (Security Clearance)
• Site-based role with occasional travel as required