Process Engineer in Plymouth, United Kingdom

The Process Engineer will be responsible for the development, implementation, control, and continuous improvement of our processes. The role ensures these processes meet customer specifications, internal quality standards, Fine Tubes Internal production specifications and NADCAP requirements (if applicable). The Process Engineer will lead problem-solving initiatives, support audits, and drive process stability and capability improvements. This is predominantly a shop floor based role, supporting additional business requirements where required.

Key Responsibilities

Process Ownership & Development

• Lead the design, implementation, evaluation and optimisation of the relevant process group.
• Develop and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Ensure process routings align with customer specifications and metallurgical requirements.
• Create and maintain detailed process maps to support standardisation, training, and continuous improvement.
• Support capital expenditure projects to ensure that process control is designed and implemented effectively.
• Support the development and implementation of workplace organisation strategies (e.g., 5S, visual management) to improve safety, efficiency, and quality.
• Identify and implement engineering process controls (e.g, control plans, monitoring systems, interlocks) to prevent process failures and ensure consistent performance.
• Support the development of ‘Autonomous and Planned maintenance’ for the relevant process group.

Quality & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with NADCAP standards (or equivalent / if applicable)
• Prepare for and support NADCAP audits, including documentation, corrective actions, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Conduct root cause analysis and implement corrective actions for non-conformances in the relevant process group.

Continuous Improvement

• Analyse process data to identify trends and inefficiencies, identifying opportunities to improve yield, reduce waste, and enhance process efficiency.
• Apply Six Sigma and SPC methodologies to reduce variation and improve process control.
• Lead cross-functional teams in problem-solving and improvement projects.

Safety & Environment

• Promote and enforce safety standards.
• Conduct risk assessments and support incident investigations related to the relevant process group.
• Minimize environmental impact through responsible chemical handling and disposal practices.

Technical Support

• Provide metallurgical and process expertise to operations, quality, and customer service teams.
• Support lab analysis and interpretation of process results.
• Review product specifications and assess capability to meet customer requirements.

Essential Requirements

• HNC/ HND, Degree or equivalent qualification in Metallurgy, Materials Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
• At least 3 years proven experience within a manufacturing, metallurgical, process engineering, or technical production environment.
• Experience developing, implementing and improving manufacturing processes through the use of data.
• Knowledge of Statistical Process Control (SPC), FMEA, and process mapping tools.
• Excellent IT skills including Microsoft Office, Microsoft Project and data analysis tools.
• Knowledge and utilisation of root cause analysis and corrective action methodologies.
• Prior experience creating and maintaining Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), process documentation and process maps.
• Experience in problem solving and project management.
• Demonstrated ability and willingness to use AI tools to improve productivity, decision-marking, work quality, and to reduce costs. The successful candidate must be able to identify appropriate AI use cases and critically evaluate AI-generated outputs.
• Self-motivated, proactive and capable of managing multiple projects and working under pressure, whilst maintaining high personal productivity and integrity.
• Team player, with the ability to work effectively cross functionally and with respect to immediate colleagues.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Commitment to quality and attention to detail in all aspects of your work.
• Creative aptitude towards copy writing, brand, design and communication.
• Ability to achieve a satisfactory result in a background check, company medical and Drug and Alcohol test (hair follicle).