Manufacturing engineer: Job description

Manufacturing engineers have a high level of technical expertise and skill, which they use to plan, design, setup, modify, optimise and monitor manufacturing processes. Since the basic principles of manufacturing engineering apply to all industries they can work in numerous sectors including food and drink, oil, plastics and pharmaceuticals.

They work to produce high quality goods efficiently using the most cost-effective methods and with the aim of reducing the impact of production on the environment.

Manufacturing engineers are designers, as well as analytical and creative thinkers. They can operate on their own initiative but also contribute as a team member working with engineers from various disciplines. Manufacturing engineers also work with other professionals, in areas such as finance and health and safety.

Responsibilities may also include: maintaining records; purchasing; and managing staff and budgets.

Typical work activities

These may include:

• designing new systems and processes for the introduction of new products or for the improvement of existing ones;
• working with other engineers, such as chemical engineers, mechanical engineers, electrical engineers, to ensure all product and system requirements are taken into account from the initial product conception to the finished result;
• working with other professionals, such as accountants and human resources personnel, to manage budgets and the recruitment of junior engineers;
• examining and tendering for new equipment to ensure the highest quality at the best price;
• supervising junior engineers and sub-contractors and ensuring effective communication in order to avoid errors;
• organising plant start-up and shut-down schedules to ensure minimum loss of production time and profits;
• liaising with the research and development department to ensure the company is at the forefront of ground-breaking research;
• keeping up to date with current and developing trends in the manufacturing industry, at a national and international level;
• attending training courses and conferences - the engineer should always participate in CPD (continuous professional development) programmes affiliated to their professional body.