Production Engineer Location: Saffron Walden, Essex (Hybrid working available)
Employment Type: Full-Time
About the Role We are seeking a proactive, hands-on Production Engineer to play a key role in developing and strengthening our Production Engineering function. This is an exciting opportunity to join a well-established, growing manufacturing business with a strong culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement.
Reporting to the Head of Manufacturing, you will focus on designing and implementing jigs, fixtures, tooling, and engineering solutions that enhance manufacturing efficiency, maintain high-quality standards, and support continuous improvement initiatives across production processes.
Key ResponsibilitiesCollaboration & Engineering Support * Work closely with Production, Assembly, Supply Chain, and R&D teams to resolve manufacturing issues efficiently.

* Manage production engineering projects and lead weekly engineering meetings.

* Provide engineering input to support the successful release of new product lines.

Equipment & Tooling * Design and implement jigs, fixtures, and tooling to improve manufacturing efficiency.

* Liaise with suppliers to source and implement engineering solutions.

* Troubleshoot equipment and production issues as they arise.

Lean & Continuous Improvement * Support continuous improvement initiatives across manufacturing.

* Identify and implement productivity improvements that maximise uptime, improve quality, and enhance profitability.

* Apply lean manufacturing principles and root cause analysis to drive sustainable change.

Infrastructure & Equipment Management * Maintain production tooling and jigs to ensure maximum operational efficiency.

* Ensure preventative maintenance schedules are in place and adhered to.

* Manage and maintain 3D printing capabilities.

Technical Drawings & CAD * Produce 3D CAD models and manufacturing drawings using SolidWorks (or similar).

* Translate customer requirements into accurate technical documentation.

* Liaise with customers where required to clarify custom specifications.

Experience & QualificationsEssential * Minimum 5 years’ experience in a Production Engineering role.

* Strong understanding of manufacturing quality systems.

* Experience using ERP and/or MRP systems.

* Proficiency in Microsoft Office (particularly Excel).

* Experience using SolidWorks (or similar CAD software).

Desirable (Not Essential) * Experience within scientific equipment or specialist manufacturing environments.

* Knowledge of glass working or technical assembly processes.