Manufacturing Engineer

Eaton are currently recruiting for an experienced Manufacturing Engineer to join the team  site in Wimborne – former Cobham Mission Systems, now part of the Eaton portfolio – manufactures air‑to‑air refueling systems and actuation (weapons carriage) mainly for defense markets. The site has approximately 1,000 people and is a state‑of‑the‑art facility using the most modern technologies in AI, machine learning, integrated testing, and next‑generation systems.

It is also a people‑enabling organization committed to career growth and employee happiness.

This site is ITAR‑regulated; all candidates must be eligible for security clearance.

As a Manufacturing Engineer you will support our production and aftermarket activities within Air‑to‑Air refueling and Actuation value streams. Your role includes creating and optimising assembly and testing processes, providing technical assistance to manufacturing operatives daily, and facilitating on‑time delivery of the highest quality products to our customers. This full‑time role requires on‑site attendance.

• Be responsible for all manufacturing engineering tasking within the facility, ensuring compliance with aerospace industry regulations.
• Interpret manufacturing data (e.g., drawings and test schedules) to create manufacturing instructions within our ERP and enhanced digitalised manufacturing execution system.
• Provide technical advice and assistance on all assigned projects, engaging with subject‑matter experts and stakeholders from all functions as required.
• Analyse manufacturing problems and provide solutions/guidance to the shop floor team.
• Generate and maintain production and development routings and bills of material within the ERP system.
• Review and act on engineering change notifications, including defining suitable manufacturing points of embodiment.
• Support the wider engineering community in resolving design‑related issues.
• Work collaboratively with the internal supply chain team and external suppliers to resolve queries, provide support, and contribute to continuous optimisation of manufacturing processes.
• Identify requirements for tooling and implement solutions into the build sequence.
• Drive continuous improvement of manufacturing processes, reducing costs and increasing repeatability.
• Attend and contribute to daily tier meetings, material review boards and engineering change reviews.
• Lead by example and promote a proactive health and safety culture, ensuring a safe and compliant working environment.
• Support Eaton’s zero‑defect programme, undertaking key principles of APQP, and taking the lead in some areas including PFMEA and RCCA activities.

• HNC / HND in an engineering discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years’ experience as a Manufacturing Engineer, ideally within the aerospace industry with knowledge of EASA/CAA Part 21 or 145.

• Experience using MRP/ERP systems and document management systems (essential).
• Good working knowledge of a wide range of manufacturing processes and techniques (essential).
• Experience of PPAP / APQP (desirable).
• Health and Safety Qualification (IOŚ / NEBOSH) (desirable).
• Continuous Improvement Certification (e.g., Green Belt) (desirable).

• Analytical approach to problem solving.
• Ability to work independently and as part of an operational team.
• Strong written and verbal communication.
• Initiative and willingness to challenge the status quo.
• Calm and composed in high‑pressure scenarios.

• A company culture committed to inclusion, diversity, and sustainability.
• Annual mentoring programme, Eaton University, and a robust reward and recognition framework.
• Ongoing learning and global career development opportunities, including internal mobility.
• Comprehensive induction support and a well‑structured onboarding experience.

The successful applicant will be in contact with US ITAR controlled technology, goods, and information. Employees with access to US ITAR controlled technology and goods may be required to undergo an additional screening process as part of the recruitment process.

We are committed to ensuring equal employment opportunities for job applicants and employees. Our recruitment processes use balanced selection criteria and avoid unlawful discrimination against applicants on the basis of age, colour, disability, marital status, national origin, gender, gender identity, genetic information, race or racial origin, religion, sexual orientation, or any other status protected or required by law.