Manufacturing Engineer (Degree), Level 6

This occupation is found in a range of sectors that involve manufacturing, for example automotive, maritime, aerospace, food and drink and in wider manufacturing sectors.

The broad purpose of the occupation is to turn materials, components, or other commodities into a final product often on an assembly, production or process flow line. Manufacturing engineers select the most effective and efficient technologies and processes to manufacture a product. For a new, modified facility or product they would be involved in the design of the optimal manufacturing process and the design and layout of the manufacturing facility including discrete work areas or cells. They would identify equipment and resource requirements and also develop an operational plan for production, which may include considering manpower planning, logistics, procurement and supply chain requirements. They would also be involved in the installation and commissioning of new plant or equipment. For existing manufacturing facilities, they are involved in the monitoring of equipment, ensuring it is maintained for optimal performance. They investigate and resolve production problems and identify opportunities for improvements to increase productivity and efficiency. They ensure the facility, and its people, are safe and explore ways to reduce the impact of production on the environment including taking into account any sustainability key performance indicators (KPIs) whilst maintaining product quality and adherence to relevant compliance or regulatory requirements.

In their daily work an employee in this occupation interacts with a range of other engineers, functions and managers both within their own organisation and their supply chain. They may spend their working day in a variety of locations such as in manufacturing work areas but with time also spent in an office environment.

An employee in this occupation will operate with a great deal of autonomy and will be responsible for ensuring that projects or programmes of work are launched, produced or delivered on time. They will be responsible for collecting, storing or supplying data in line with organisational requirements such as production volumes, quality, equipment efficiency, resource plans, health and safety and financial data. They will also be responsible for keeping up to date with current and developing trends in the manufacturing sector including developments in technology.