Lead Engineer, Manufacturing Engineer, Mechanical Engineer

Sector: Composites Manufacturing | Marine Defence | Aerospace | UAVs

About

They are a leading UK manufacturer of large composite structures and FRP mouldings, operating across six sites between Holton Heath and Dorset Innovation Park. Since 1985, we have provided a complete composites manufacturing service - from design and engineering through to moulding, finishing, machining, and final assembly.

Their customers include industry-leading organisations across defence, aerospace, marine, and industrial sectors. As they continue to grow, our focus remains on Marine Defence, Aerospace, and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles, using the latest technologies to deliver high-quality, sustainable composite solutions.

They pride themselves on a strong team culture that supports innovation, development, and long-term careers, with financial recognition in a stable and growing business.

The Role

They are seeking a Lead Engineer to join their expanding Engineering team based at Dorset Innovation Park. Reporting to the Engineering Manager, you will lead small project teams and play a key role in translating customer requirements into efficient, high-quality manufacturing processes.

Working closely with Production, Project, and Customer teams, you will apply your project management expertise, CAD capability, and structured approach to deliver robust production engineering solutions for complex composite structures.

Please note: This is a fully on-site role; hybrid working is not available.

Key Responsibilities

As Lead Engineer, you will:

• Lead small engineering project teams on large and complex programmes
• Ensure planning activities align with project timescales and elevate risks where required
• Advise customers on suitable manufacturing techniques and processes
• Oversee the full Production Engineering lifecycle from concept and quotation through to planning, tool design, documentation, and implementation
• Drive continuous improvement across engineering and manufacturing processes to reduce waste, improve quality, lower costs, and increase efficiency
• Ensure manufacturing processes and equipment comply with quality and safety standards
• Develop and maintain SOPs, work instructions, and MRP layouts
• Act as the main engineering point of contact for customer project and design teams, providing detailed DFM feedback
• Create, maintain, and present detailed project plans including critical paths, resources, and milestones
• Train, mentor, and develop junior engineers
• Apply structured problem‑solving approaches involving all stakeholders
• Monitor engineering and project KPIs

Skills & Qualifications

• Proven experience in a manufacturing or engineering role, ideally within composites
• Strong working knowledge of 2D and 3D CAD
• Experience working within an MRP/ERP environment, including BOMs, routings, and part numbering
• Excellent analytical skills with strong attention to detail
• Methodical and structured problem-solving approach
• Confidence working with customers and external stakeholders
• High level of accuracy in process documentation, particularly for safety‑critical structures
• Experience with Siemens NX, Rhino, or Solid Works
• Degree in Engineering or a related discipline
• Knowledge of lean manufacturing principles
• Experience working to customer specifications and ISO / AS quality standards

Security & Eligibility Requirements

Due to the nature of this role, applicants must:

• Have the right to live and work in the UK
• Be capable of achieving UK Government Security Clearance (SC)
• Successfully complete DBS and, where applicable, National Security Vetting (NSV)

Full support and guidance will be provided throughout the security clearance process.

Why Join?

• Work on technically challenging, high‑value composite projects
• Be part of a collaborative and experienced engineering team
• Long‑term career development within a growing organisation
• Competitive salary and recognition for your contribution

Lead Engineer
• Poole, England, United Kingdom