Lead Process Engineer

Lead Process Engineer – Advanced Manufacturing

Gloucester – Permanent – Full-time – 37 hours, Monday to Friday – Salary £45-55,000

Are you a process-driven engineering professional with a passion for continuous improvement, lean practices, and driving quality through precision? We're seeking a Lead Process Engineer to take ownership of process optimisation and support high-level product and process implementation across a complex, fast-paced manufacturing environment.

This is a high-impact role for someone who enjoys both hands-on involvement and strategic oversight — shaping the way products move through production while mentoring others in process excellence.

The Role:

·       Lead the development and standardisation of manufacturing processes across value streams

·       Drive continuous improvement through lean methodologies — from Value Stream Mapping to Yamazumi charts, Time Studies (MOST), and Spaghetti Diagrams

·       Own PFMEA and Control Plan activities alongside Quality Engineers

·       Ensure robust and current SOPs are maintained for all processes

·       Champion new product and process introductions, ensuring smooth handovers from design to production

·       Troubleshoot process-related issues and contribute to OEE improvement plans

·       Design and implement process efficiency initiatives focused on waste elimination and flow improvement

·       Support internal and external audits and ensure ongoing compliance with safety, environmental, and industry regulations

·       Collaborate with Manufacturing Engineering, Quality, and Operations teams to enhance plant performance

·       Deliver process engineering training and act as a technical mentor for quality and technical teams

·       Support the development and execution of annual improvement plans and engineering KPIs

·       Deputise for the Process Engineering Manager when required

The Person:

·       Significant experience in Process Engineering within a complex manufacturing setting

·       Skilled in process mapping, lean tools, and continuous improvement frameworks (Yamazumi, VSM, Spaghetti, MOST)

·       Proven ability to lead APQP activities including PFMEA, Control Plans, and PPAP

·       Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a high attention to detail

·       Confident interpreting technical drawings (including GD&T)

·       Familiarity with process safety, compliance, and manufacturing systems

·       Excellent interpersonal and communication skills — team player and coach

·       Self-motivated, methodical, and driven to finish what you start

·       Desirable Skills:

·       Background in mentoring or leading process teams

·       Hands-on experience with Lean tools such as Jidoka, SMED, 5S, and Single Piece Flow

·       Knowledge of project management tools (Microsoft Project, Gantt Charts, Project Charters)

·       Other Requirements:

·       UK driving licence and flexibility to travel to suppliers or customers on occasion

Why Apply?

·       Make a real impact in a role that blends strategic influence with practical delivery

·       Join a collaborative, forward-thinking team focused on manufacturing excellence

·       Competitive salary and benefits package

·       Ongoing professional development and project variety

To apply, send your CV to (url removed) or call George Jackson on (phone number removed) / (phone number removed).

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