Manufacturing Manager

Thermoteknix Systems

COMPANY PROFILE Location:                         Waterbeach, UK Department:                    Engineering (NPI) Reports to:                      Production Engineering Manager Type:                                Full-time, Permanent   Thermoteknix Systems Ltd, founded in 1982 and based in Cambridge, is a world leader in thermal imaging, night vision, and augmented reality systems. Our award-winning technologies are trusted by defence, security, and industrial customers in over 70 countries. With in-house R&D, cutting-edge innovation, and a global reputation for quality, we design and manufacture solutions that perform in the toughest environments.   Due to increasing market opportunities and an ever-growing product range, Thermoteknix is expanding its engineering capacity by creating a New Product Introduction (NPI) team within R&D.  ABOUT YOU As a member of the new NPI team, you will be responsible for leading the software driven automation and test aspects of transitioning products from development into scalable, repeatable manufacturing. You will work closely with R&D, manufacturing, and quality teams, drawing upon your existing software knowledge to implement comprehensive automated testing and validation protocols.   Additionally, you will contribute to the enhancement of existing software to boost production test speed and ensure that products are thoroughly tested and validated.   Key Responsibilities   * Support software and test design processes, ensuring DFT principles are applied throughout the product development lifecycle * Support software and test workstreams within NPI projects, ensuring readiness for build and scale, and supporting the transition of products through to customer delivery * Define and implement robust processes for firmware programming, product configuration, calibration data handling and version control in production builds * Define, develop, and document automated test processes during product development for new products and assemblies * Work with mechanical and electronics engineers within the NPI team to design automated electromechanical test systems that optimise production throughput and ensure product quality * Drive improvements in manufacturing readiness by identifying and implementing opportunities to streamline production test and build times * Provide hands-on support during NPI builds, troubleshooting software, automation, and hardware-integrated system issues within the ECN framework * Work with the quality department to support non-conformance investigations and product quality improvements during NPI phases * Contribute to the development of the new NPI team’s standards and processes    Required Skills & Experience * Degree in Software Engineering or related discipline * Experience developing software tools for production test and process automation * Strong experience in C#, using WPF and MVVM methodologies * Understanding of software release processes and configuration control * Ability to troubleshoot software issues communicating with embedded hardware-integrated systems. * Strong documentation skills and attention to detail * Experience creating technical documentation and releasing into a controlled change management system * Ability to work cross-functionally in a fast-paced engineering environment     Desirable Skills & Experience * Experience supporting NPI from prototype through to volume manufacture * Familiarity with embedded firmware programming tools. * Knowledge of manufacturing test systems, calibration workflows, and automation frameworks * Experience with additional programming languages such as LabVIEW, and C/C++ * Understanding of engineering change control, ISO9001 environments, and traceability requirements * Exposure to thermal imaging products, or real-time embedded systems * Experience designing jigs, fixtures, tooling, or electronic test equipment  Personal Attributes * Hands-on, proactive, and solution-focused mindset * Strong communication skills with engineering and production stakeholders * Comfortable working across both design and manufacturing environments * Driven to improve processes and deliver manufacturing excellence * Adaptable and motivated to help shape a new team and function  Applicants must have the right to work in the UK at the time of application. Unfortunately, we are unable   to provide visa sponsorship for this role. WHY US? * Opportunity to join and shape a newly formed Production Engineering team. * A key role bridging cutting-edge R&D and real-world manufacturing. * Collaborative environment working on advanced thermal imaging technologies. * Career development and growth within a high-technology engineering organisation. * Training and career development opportunities. * Competitive salary and benefits package.

STARK

ABOUT US STARK is a new kind of defence technology company revolutionising the way autonomous systems are deployed across multiple domains. We design, develop, and manufacture high-performance unmanned systems that are software-defined, mass-scalable, and cost-effective - providing operators with a decisive edge in contested environments. We are focused on delivering deployable, high-performance systems - not future promises. In a time of rising threats, STARK is bolstering the technological edge of NATO Allies and their Partners to deter aggression and defend Europe, today. YOUR MISSION We are seeking a visionary and collaborative Manufacturing Engineering Manager to bridge the gap between innovation and execution. In this role, you will lead the transition of next-generation products from concept to high-volume production. You will work at the critical intersection of R&D and operations, guiding the industrialization process, developing cutting-edge production workflows, and collaborating with R&D engineers early in the design cycle to ensure products are optimized for automated manufacturing. If you thrive on turning complex designs into scalable, automated, and efficient production realities, we want you on our team. RESPONSIBILITIES R&D COLLABORATION & DESIGN FOR AUTOMATION * Early-Stage Partnership: Partner closely with R&D teams during the prototyping phase to provide manufacturing feasibility feedback. * Design for Excellence (DFX): Act as the champion for Design for Manufacturing (DFM) and Design for Assembly (DFA), specifically guiding R&D to define product designs that lend themselves seamlessly to automated assembly. * Standardization: Establish design guidelines that standardize components and processes, reducing manufacturing complexity and cost. * Vendor & Capital Equipment Management  * Technical Specifications: Define technical requirements and author comprehensive Requests for Proposals (RFPs) and functional specifications for custom automation equipment, robotics, and tooling. * Vendor Selection & Evaluation: Scout, evaluate, and select world-class equipment vendors and automation system integrators based on capability, scalability, cost, and lead times. * Milestone & Budget Tracking: Act as the primary point of contact for external vendors, managing capital expenditure (CapEx) budgets and tracking project timelines to ensure machinery is delivered on schedule for product launches. * Acceptance Testing (FAT/SAT): Lead Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) at vendor facilities and Site Acceptance Testing (SAT) upon factory installation to guarantee equipment meets all cycle time, yield, and safety standards. * SLA & Lifecycle Management: Establish Service Level Agreements (SLAs), warranty terms, and preventative maintenance/spare-parts strategies with vendors to ensure long-term equipment reliability. INDUSTRIALIZATION * Prototype to Scale: Oversee the build of pilot lines, identify scaling bottlenecks, and smoothly transition products from low-volume prototyping to mass production. * Risk Mitigation: Conduct Design/Process Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (DFMEA/PFMEA) to identify and mitigate risks early in the product lifecycle. PROCESS DEVELOPMENT & OPTIMIZATION * Workflow Design: Design, implement, and continuously improve production layouts, material flows, and line balances. * Automation Strategy: Identify opportunities for automation, robotics, and smart manufacturing (Industry 4.0) integration on the production floor. * Documentation & Compliance: Oversee the creation of detailed manufacturing documentation, including standard operating procedures (SOPs), work instructions, and routing sheets. TEAM LEADERSHIP & MANAGEMENT * Team Development: Lead, mentor, and grow a high-performing team of manufacturing and process engineers. * KPI Management: Define and track team metrics, including cycle times, first-pass yield (FPY), overall equipment effectiveness (OEE), and capital expenditure (CapEx) budgets. QUALIFICATIONS * Education: Bachelor’s degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related technical field (Master's or MBA is a plus). * Experience: 5+ years of experience in manufacturing engineering, with at least 2+ years in a leadership or managerial capacity. * NPI Expertise: Proven track record of successfully launching new products into production, specifically working side-by-side with R&D teams. * Automation Savvy: Deep understanding of automated assembly processes, robotics, PLC programming, or vision systems, and how product design choices impact automation feasibility. * Technical Arsenal: Strong proficiency in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, Creo), Lean Manufacturing principles, Six Sigma methodologies, and PFMEA execution. * Soft Skills: Exceptional cross-functional communication and negotiation skills—ability to speak the "language" of both abstract R&D and practical factory operations. For further information please reach out to talent@stark-defence.com.

Silex Microsystems AB

Are you an experienced leader with a passion for advanced manufacturing and process excellence? As an Area Manager within our Manufacturing department, you will play a key role in driving performance, quality, and continuous improvement in a high-tech MEMS production environment. This is a dynamic role where leadership, technical expertise, and operational excellence come together to ensure efficient, safe, and high-quality production that meets both customer expectations and strategic goals. Would you like to know more about Silex and what we do? Read more here. In this role, you will: Lead and develop a team of process engineers and service technicians, including performance management and competence development. Plan and allocate resources to ensure efficient operations and delivery according to production goals. Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance quality, reduce scrap, and optimize productivity. Oversee process ownership for new and existing equipment, including qualification, release, and operational maintenance. Establish and manage Statistical Process Control (SPC) and ensure stable and reliable processes. Ensure compliance with safety, quality, and environmental standards while promoting a safe working environment. Collaborate closely with shift leaders and cross-functional teams to ensure smooth and efficient operations. We are looking for someone who has: A Master’s degree in materials science, chemistry, physics, electronics, or a related field. Experience in process development within MEMS or similar high-tech industries (meritorious). Proven experience in a formal managerial role with direct reports, including performance management, coaching, and team development. Solid knowledge of statistical methods and process control (SPC). Experience working with continuous improvement methodologies. Excellent communication skills in English, Swedish is considered highly beneficial. What we offer you: The chance to work closely with fantastic colleagues. The opportunity to work with the latest technology in MEMS. To be part of a leading company driving technology development in the industry. Strong knowledge exchange with the world's foremost experts in process integration and process development of MEMS. About Silex Silex is the world’s largest and most advanced pure-play MEMS foundry, headquartered in Stockholm. MEMS is present in nearly all modern technology, from personal gadgets to automotive electronics, medical monitoring and testing equipment, and thermal management systems. With a team of expert engineers, operators, technicians, support staff, specialists, and more, Silex brings the ideas and concepts of the industry’s leading MEMS innovators to life. The Silex team brings together talented, curious, visionary, and determined individuals to break new ground in the industry alongside customers, developing the latest process technology within MEMS for global applications. As part of this team, you will work with some of the world’s largest technology giants and innovation leaders in industries such as medicine, life sciences, consumer electronics, telecommunications, automotive, and industrial sectors. Additional Information We have an ongoing recruitment process and therefore encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible. To apply, please attach your CV and answer a few questions. Our process is competency-based and includes a personality and logic test as well as reference checks. Additionally, we will conduct a background check and drug test prior to employment, and as an employer, we perform random alcohol and drug tests for all employees. We look forward to your application and to welcoming you on this exciting journey!