Lead Manufacturing Engineer

Fortress Recruit is supporting a Defence engineering and manufacturing organisation with the recruitment of a Lead Manufacturing Engineer. This is a senior technical role supporting the production engineering function, with responsibility for developing and improving manufacturing processes, providing production support and driving continuous improvement across a complex manufacturing environment. Key responsibilities will include: * Supporting the production engineering team and mentoring junior engineers * Developing and improving manufacturing processes * Providing technical support to production and resolving manufacturing issues * Working with Design Engineering on DFM and new product introduction * Developing tooling, work holding and fixture solutions * Driving continuous improvement and Six Sigma activity * Supporting new machinery and equipment projects, including CAPEX and commissioning * Working with subcontractors and internal teams to achieve quality and delivery targets * Creating and maintaining manufacturing documentation, BoMs and routings To be successful in this role, you will have: * HNC/HND or equivalent engineering qualification desirable, although relevant experience will be considered * Strong manufacturing engineering experience, ideally 10+ years * A machining or apprentice trained background * Experience within a precision manufacturing environment * Good knowledge of CNC machining, tooling and modern manufacturing methods * Experience with engineering drawings, tolerances, work holding and fixture design * CAD experience, ideally Solid Edge or a similar system * Experience of continuous improvement and Six Sigma * Experience with complex materials such as super alloys, castings or composites would be advantageous * CNC programming, SAP or ERP/MRP experience would also be beneficial * Strong communication, problem solving and influencing skills * Eligibility to gain SC clearance (5 years UK residency without visa or sponsorship requirement) This is a senior, hands on manufacturing engineering position within a busy production environment, where flexibility will be required to support business needs and meet demanding delivery deadlines. This is a full time, permanent position based onsite in Portsmouth, offering a salary of £50-53K DoE, 8% bonus and comprehensive benefits package. For a confidential conversation or to request a full job description, please get in touch with a copy of your up to date CV