Manufacturing Engineer; Sliding Head Lathe

Position: Manufacturing Engineer (Sliding Head Lathe)
Location: Ampthill

Manufacturing Engineer (Sliding Head Lathe)
Tewkesbury |Onsite| Aerospace Sector
We are supporting a leading aerospace manufacturer in Tewkesbury in the search for an experienced Manufacturing Engineer with strong sliding head lathe expertise. This is an excellent opportunity to join a high-performance engineering environment focused on precision, innovation, and continuous improvement.
If you thrive in complex machining environments and enjoy influencing manufacturing strategy from NPI through to production, this could be the role for you.
The Opportunity
As Manufacturing Engineer, you will play a key role in developing and optimising machining processes for high-precision components used in aerospace applications. You’ll be heavily involved in New Product Introduction (NPI), advising on Design for Manufacture (DfM), leading APQP activities, and driving lean improvements across the machine shop.
This is a hands-on engineering role with strong technical ownership and cross-functional exposure.

Key Responsibilities
 
* Develop and implement lean manufacturing processes focused on quality, cost, and delivery
 
* Create CNC machining processes for complex, tight-tolerance components
 
* Programme using 3D CAD/CAM systems (Siemens NX, Partmaker, Feature cam preferred)
 
* Select cutting tools, design fixtures, and produce technical documentation
 
* Support APQP activities including DFMEA, PFMEA, Control Plans and MSA
 
* Lead continuous improvement projects and minimise downtime
 
* Review engineering drawings for manufacturability and recommend improvements
 
* Provide technical support to suppliers and internal stakeholders
 
* Mentor engineers and technicians in tooling, gauging, and fixture design???????
What We’re Looking For
 
* Degree or HNC/HND in Mechanical, Production, or Manufacturing Engineering (or equivalent experience)
 
* Strong experience in manufacturing/process engineering, ideally within aerospace or other regulated industries
 
* Proven CNC programming capability using 3D CAD/CAM
 
* Experience with sliding head machines (Star machines advantageous)
 
* Knowledge of DFM, DFSS, APQP, Lean manufacturing, and Zero Defects principles
 
* Exposure to advanced processes such as EDM, grinding, honing, lapping, heat treatment or anodising
 
* Analytical mindset with strong problem-solving ability
 
* Excellent communication skills and ability to work cross-functionally
What’s on Offer
 
* Competitive salary (dependent on experience)
 
* 33 days holiday (including bank holidays)
 
* Private medical cover
 
* Generous pension contribution
 
* Life assurance
 
* Share scheme
 
* Onsite parking, EV charging and gym facilities
 
* Structured career development opportunities
If you are a Manufacturing Engineer with strong CNC and sliding head machining experience looking to take the next step in a technically challenging aerospace environment, we would like to hear from you