Development Engineer

Derby, UK | £45,000 – £50,000

A leading advanced manufacturing organization within the aerospace and precision engineering sector is looking for a Development Engineer to join its engineering team at a key UK production facility. This is an exciting opportunity for someone who enjoys working between R&D, machining innovation, and production engineering, helping bring new manufacturing technologies and processes into a live production environment.

In this role, you’ll focus on developing and proving out advanced machining methods, supporting the installation of new machine tools, and transitioning new programs into production. You’ll collaborate with engineering teams, machine manufacturers, and shop floor operators to ensure new technologies are successfully implemented and optimized for performance and efficiency.

• Prototype and evaluate new machining programs and manufacturing techniques before transferring them into production.
• Support the installation and commissioning of new machine tools and advanced equipment.
• Lead engineering projects focused on advanced machining processes and high-speed manufacturing technologies.
• Work with contractors and suppliers to ensure equipment, tooling, and site capabilities are ready for new technologies.
• Conduct machining trials and R&D testing to validate and refine manufacturing methods.
• Monitor predicted vs actual performance, identifying improvements and reporting results to engineering leadership.
• Provide technical troubleshooting and process improvement support once new methods move into production.
• Develop improved tooling strategies and measurement techniques to enhance machining efficiency and quality.
• Deliver training and guidance to machine operators on new programs and processes.
• Work with machine tool manufacturers and tooling providers to explore new manufacturing technologies.

• Strong experience in 5-axis machining (typically 5+ years).
• Experience working in prototyping, process development, or fast-paced production environments.
• Ability to analyze manufacturing performance and solve technical problems.
• Familiarity with CAD/CAM systems (preferred).
• Programming experience with Fanuc or Mazatrol controls is beneficial.
• Exposure to robotic automation or robotic machining solutions is advantageous (training available).
• Strong communication skills and a collaborative, hands-on engineering mindset.

• Salary: £45,000 – £50,000
• Opportunity to work on cutting-edge machining technology and process innovation
• Involvement in R&D, prototyping, and industrialisation of new manufacturing methods
• A collaborative engineering environment focused on continuous improvement and innovation