Production Engineer

Responsibilities – Manufacturing & Process Improvement

• Develop new and existing manufacturing methods within Nifco UK and support production’s needs.
• Refurbish and re-engineer existing assembly equipment to achieve OEE improvement objectives.
• Carry out TPM activities to sustain machine condition and performance standards.
• Identify opportunities for waste elimination and automation through robust engineering solutions.
• Support programme introductions with new equipment installation or modification of existing equipment.
• Project‑manage new assembly and moulding equipment introduction.
• Assist in the design of new assembly equipment.
• Train existing personnel and identify training needs.
• Liaise with production to meet ongoing needs of production (e.g., fault finding, diagnostics).
• Assist and develop production with the implementation of improvement plans (reject reduction, machine utilisation, cycle times, raw material utilisation, tooling problems, improved automation, etc.).
• Investigate new manufacturing methods and propose introduction/budgets of equipment.
• Ensure that new projects meet the required introduction timing.
• Create action plans to overcome problems.
• Participate and promote good health and safety practice at all times.
• Carry out risk assessments on all new equipment.
• Manage, develop and create procedures to improve Production engineering operations.

• HNC or degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Mechatronics.
• Pneumatic and Hydraulic systems.
• Electrical installation IEE 17th edition.
• Experience programming Cartesian and 6‑axis robots.
• Experience with vision checking systems.
• Visual BASIC programming.
• Familiarity with Kaizen, 5S, PPS, 8D or 6‑sigma techniques.

Currently, day shift – hours will be worked in line with the business.

Manage the Purchasing and Costing teams, ensuring the efficient procurement of components, materials, and services. The role is focused on delivering cost savings, maintaining high supplier performance, and mitigating supply chain risks while aligning with the company’s strategic objectives. The Purchasing Manager will act as a key liaison between internal stakeholders and suppliers to support production requirements and business goals.

• Develop and implement purchasing strategies to achieve cost reduction targets and maintain supplier performance.
• Manage and mentor the Purchasing and Costing team, ensuring their professional growth and high performance.
• Collaborate with internal Departments to ensure RM/BOC meet specifications and production schedules.
• Monitor supplier performance, implementing corrective actions and improvement plans where necessary.
• Analyse market trends and cost drivers to create informed decision‑making and future strategies.
• Prepare / manage budgets for the purchasing function, ensuring alignment with corporate financial goals.
• Support and lead supplier negotiations to secure the best terms for cost, quality, delivery, and long‑term partnership.
• Identify and mitigate risks in the supply chain, including capacity issues, geopolitical risks, and raw material shortages.
• Establish strategic relationships with key suppliers.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, industry standards, and regulatory requirements.
• Assist with negotiations with Nifco Japan and sister sites in Europe.

• Extensive experience in procurement and supplier management.
• Strong leadership and team management skills with the ability to inspire and develop high performance.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, negotiation skills and commercial acumen.
• Strong analytical, problem‑solving, and decision‑making abilities.
• Proficiency in ERP systems and advanced knowledge of Microsoft Excel.
• Proven track record in delivering cost savings, supplier performance improvement, and risk mitigation.
• Understanding of automotive industry and supply chains.
• Familiarity with quality standards and regulations such as IATF 16949 and ISO 9001.
• Degree in supply chain management, business, engineering, or a related field; CIPS qualification preferred.

• Monday to Thursday 08:00 – 16:45 and Friday 08:00 – 12:30.

• Basic literacy and numeracy skills are essential.
• Must be willing and flexible re duties.
• Team worker, reliable, accurate and methodical in practice.