Manufacturing Engineer - Product & Planning

Job Summary

The Manufacturing Engineer will be responsible for developing and implementing manufacturing processes across the full value chain—from concept and industrialization to full-rate production. The role focuses on improving productivity, quality, and cost efficiency through the application of advanced manufacturing techniques such as composites, machining, additive manufacturing, and automation.

The position requires close collaboration with cross-functional teams including design engineering, quality, supply chain, and operations to ensure manufacturability, process capability, and successful product launches. The engineer will also drive continuous improvement initiatives aligned with Lean, Six Sigma, and GKN’s Zero Defect Manufacturing (ZDM) philosophy.

This role demands a strong technical foundation, problem-solving mindset, and the ability to innovate within a fast-paced, global manufacturing environment focused on sustainability and next-generation technologies. 

Job Responsibilities

• Develop, validate, and maintain manufacturing processes for fabrication, assembly, and finishing components using advanced materials and technologies.
• Design and implement industrialization solutions from concept through production, ensuring robust and scalable processes across the value chain.  
• Apply Lean manufacturing tools and continuous improvement methodologies to reduce waste, improve efficiency, and optimize cycle time.
• Perform root cause analysis and implement corrective and preventive actions to eliminate defects and improve product quality.
• Collaborate with design engineering teams to ensure Design for Manufacturing (DFM), material selection, and process feasibility.
• Support new product introduction (NPI) activities, including process development, tooling design, and production readiness.
• Develop manufacturing documentation such as process specifications, work instructions, PFMEA, and control plans.
• Lead or support industrialization and process improvement projects, ensuring delivery of measurable results aligned with operational goals.
• Ensure compliance with GKN’s Health, Safety, and Environmental standards, promoting a safety-first culture.  
• Provide technical support to production teams and drive problem-solving activities on the shop floor.
• Interface with suppliers and customers to resolve technical issues and improve processes across the supply chain.
• Contribute to innovation and adoption of advanced manufacturing technologies such as automation, composites, and additive manufacturing.

Job Qualifications

· Bachelor’s degree in engineering (Mechanical, Aerospace, Industrial, Electrical, Materials, or related field).

· Minimum 3 years of experience in manufacturing engineering, industrialization, or process engineering within aerospace, automotive, or advanced manufacturing environments.

· Proven experience in introducing new products/processes (NPI) and improving existing manufacturing processes.

· Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes such as machining, assembly, composites, or materials processing.

· Experience with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement methodologies.

· Solid problem-solving skills with experience in root cause analysis and corrective/preventive actions.

· Project management experience and ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

· Advanced English proficiency (written and verbal).

· Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate in a global, cross-functional team environment.