Be at the heart of actionFly remote-controlled drones into enemy territory to gather vital information.

Apply Now

Manufacturing Engineer (Composites)

Darwen
5 months ago
Applications closed

Related Jobs

View all jobs

Manufacturing Engineer

Manufacturing Engineer – Adhesive bonding/Composite Surface Protection System

R&D Manufacturing Engineer

Process Engineer Aluminium

Graduate Quality Engineer

Process Improvement Engineer

Summary of role:

As a Manufacturing Engineering, specialising in Composites and Continuous Improvement, this role will play a key role in the development and optimisation of manufacturing processes for composite materials used in Aerospace applications. This role is focused on driving continuous improvement initiatives across production processes.

The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in materials science, specifically composites, and a proven track record of identifying and implementing process improvements to enhance efficiency, reduce waste, and improve product quality. This role will be involved in new production introduction into the business, ensuring the cost effectiveness and efficiency of production.

Key Responsibilities:

Composites Engineering

Develop, implement, and optimise manufacturing processes for composite materials and components, ensuring alignment with engineering specifications and industry standards.
Serve as a primary technical point of contact for composite materials and continuous improvement initiatives within the organisation.
Collaborate with design, engineering, and production teams to develop and refine composite manufacturing methods, including layup, curing, machining, and bonding processes.
Design and implement tooling, fixtures, and equipment required for composite manufacturing, ensuring they meet production and quality requirements.
Conduct process trials and validate new manufacturing methods to ensure they meet performance, cost, and quality objectives.
Troubleshoot and resolve manufacturing issues related to composite materials, processes, and equipment.
Lead continuous improvement initiatives to enhance manufacturing efficiency, reduce waste, and improve product quality.
Work closely with quality assurance teams to ensure compliance with AS9100 and other relevant aerospace quality standards.
Prepare and maintain detailed documentation of manufacturing processes, including work instructions, process specifications, and quality control plans.
Ensure all composite materials and products meet industry standards, regulations, and customer specifications.
Participate in product testing, failure analysis, and validation processes to ensure the integrity and durability of composite materials.
Stay up to date with the latest advancements in composite materials and manufacturing technologies and integrate new innovations into production processes.
Provide technical support and training to production staff on composite manufacturing processes and best practices.

Continuous Improvement Initiatives
 
Lead continuous improvement projects focused on optimising manufacturing processes, reducing waste, improving throughput, and enhancing overall product quality.
Utilise continuous improvement methodologies to identify and eliminate inefficiencies in manufacturing.
Implement process control measures and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to ensure continuous improvement objectives are met.
Conduct root cause analysis of production issues and lead corrective action teams to resolve them.
Develop, update and refine manufacturing process standards (MPS’s) for composite processes.
Ensure training and mentoring for manufacturing staff and other engineers on best practices for handling and working with composite materials.
Communicate progress, challenges, and successes of improvement projects to stakeholders, including senior leadership.
Involvement with APQP as new product introductions, providing technical knowledge

Subscribe to Future Tech Insights for the latest jobs & insights, direct to your inbox.

By subscribing, you agree to our privacy policy and terms of service.

Industry Insights

Discover insightful articles, industry insights, expert tips, and curated resources.

Why the UK Could Be the World’s Next Materials Science Jobs Hub

Materials science is no longer just a specialised academic discipline—it’s a frontier of innovation powering industries from aerospace and electronics to healthcare and sustainability. Whether it’s designing nanomaterials for ultrasensitive sensors, developing eco-friendly composites for lightweight vehicles, or engineering cutting-edge battery materials, the field sits at the heart of technological progress. This pivotal role is increasingly reflected in recruitment trends. Companies and public institutions across manufacturing, energy, defence, healthcare, and more are seeking talent with deep knowledge of material properties, production methods, and characterisation tools. The United Kingdom is exceptionally well placed to become the world’s next materials science jobs hub. With its world-class universities, historic and modern industrial base, growing emphasis on sustainable technologies, and ambitious government strategy, the UK sets the stage for both career-seekers and employers to thrive. This article explores the current landscape, strength pillars, job dynamics, regional opportunities, and the actions needed to secure global leadership in materials science jobs.

The Best Free Tools & Platforms to Practise Materials Science Skills in 2025/26

Materials science is one of the most exciting multidisciplinary fields today, sitting at the crossroads of physics, chemistry, engineering, and data science. It underpins advances across sectors — from developing new semiconductors for electronics, to creating sustainable polymers, to innovating alloys for aerospace and defence. In the UK, demand for materials scientists is growing rapidly. Employers are looking for candidates who not only understand theoretical principles, but can also demonstrate practical skills in modelling, simulation, data analysis, and design. The challenge? Commercial materials software packages can cost thousands of pounds. Fortunately, a wide range of free and open-source tools make it possible to practise materials science without financial barriers. These platforms allow you to explore everything from atomic-scale quantum simulations to computer-aided design, visualisation, and machine learning for materials discovery. This guide highlights the best free tools and platforms to practise materials science skills in 2025. Each section explains what the tool does, why it’s useful, and how you can leverage it to build portfolio-ready projects and prepare for a career in the sector.

Top 10 Skills in Materials Science According to LinkedIn & Indeed Job Postings

Materials science and engineering are foundational to innovation across industries—from aerospace and automotive to healthcare, energy, and electronics. In the UK, organisations are increasingly seeking experts who understand material properties, advanced characterisation, and how to translate them into commercial solutions. But what specific skills are in demand today? By analysing job postings on LinkedIn and Indeed, this article presents the Top 10 materials science skills sought by UK employers in 2025. Alongside definitions, you’ll find guidance on showcasing these skills in your CV, acing interviews, and building a compelling portfolio.