Manufacturing Engineer - Composites

Manufacturing Engineer – Composites
Location: Darwen, Blackburn
Job Type: Permanent, 37 hours per week, working a 4-day week over a 5-day operational week
Salary: £50,000 - £60,000 DOE

A well-established aerospace manufacturer with a strong reputation for producing advanced composite and metal components is seeking an experienced Manufacturing Engineer to join its engineering team. This is an excellent opportunity for a technically strong engineer to play a key role in improving manufacturing processes, supporting production, and helping deliver high-quality aerospace components in a fast-paced environment.

The Role

You will be responsible for developing, improving and supporting composite manufacturing processes to ensure products are made efficiently, cost-effectively and to the required quality standards. Working closely with design, production and quality teams, you will help refine methods across layup, curing, machining and bonding, while also supporting tooling and fixture development.

This role will suit someone who enjoys problem-solving, continuous improvement and taking a hands-on approach to process optimisation in a regulated manufacturing environment.

Main Duties

Develop, implement and improve manufacturing processes for composite materials and components.

Work with design, engineering and production teams to refine composite build methods.

Support the design and introduction of tooling, fixtures and equipment.

Carry out process trials and validate new manufacturing methods.

Troubleshoot issues linked to materials, processes and equipment.

Lead continuous improvement activity to reduce waste and improve efficiency.

Support compliance with aerospace quality standards, including AS9100.

Maintain process documentation, work instructions and quality control records.

Provide technical support and training to production staff.

Keep up to date with new composite technologies and manufacturing methods.

What We Are Looking For

Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science or a related subject.

At least 3 years’ experience in composite manufacturing, ideally within aerospace.

Strong knowledge of carbon fibre, fibreglass and advanced polymer materials.

Experience with CAD software for tooling and fixture design.

Familiarity with hand layup, AFP, RTM and autoclave curing processes.

Good understanding of AS9100, NADCAP and FAA requirements.

Strong problem-solving and communication skills.

Able to manage multiple priorities and work effectively across departments.

Benefits

4-day working week.

Overtime rates.

Long service awards.

28 days’ holiday based on a 4-day week.

On-site occupational health.

Employee referral scheme.

Life insurance.

Cash plan benefit.

Bike2Work scheme.