Lead Facility, Automation & Process Engineer(UK Visa Sponsorship Available)

Job Description

About GE Aerospace

At GE Aerospace, we invent the future of flight — enabling people to travel safely, sustainably, and efficiently. As a global leader in jet engines, systems, and technologies for commercial and military aircraft, we take pride in pushing boundaries and redefining what’s possible.

Our people are at the heart of everything we do. Guided by FLIGHT DECK, our lean operating model, we foster a culture built on respect, inclusion, and continuous improvement. At GE Aerospace, your work is not just a job — it’s your purpose and passion. Together, we work and win as one team, always striving to climb higher.

Role Overview

In this pivotal role, you’ll help shape the next generation of propulsion systems and support our journey toward electric and sustainable aviation. You will transform cutting-edge product concepts into manufacturable, scalable, and cost-effective realities.

Working ahead of the product development team, you’ll lead manufacturing process design, define facility layouts, select appropriate technologies, and plan quality systems to demonstrate manufacturing proof-of-concept through a pilot production line.

With a focus on lean manufacturing and automation, you’ll influence product design for manufacturability, optimise production systems, and collaborate across functions to resolve technical and process challenges.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop manufacturing plans including cell layouts, value stream maps, timing charts, and process flow diagrams to maximise efficiency, ROI, and product quality.
• Partner with existing manufacturing engineering and materials/process teams to align industrialisation strategies and embed failure mode avoidance in future designs.
• Champion Design for Manufacture and Assembly (DFM/DFA) principles during all stages of product development.
• Drive APQP and PPAP processes within NPI, ensuring robust PFMEA, Control Plans, and inline process control capabilities.
• Collaborate with suppliers and internal sourcing teams to manage tooling and equipment acquisition, installation, and commissioning.
• Lead the development of a pilot manufacturing line to serve as a blueprint for future scalable facilities, integrating new technologies, automation, and lean systems.
• Utilise virtual manufacturing tools to simulate workflows, automation, and space requirements to guide facility investment decisions.
• Support value engineering and make/buy analysis to optimise cost, capability, and capacity decisions.
• Serve as the key liaison between NPI, production, and support teams to coordinate the Manufacturing Engineering agenda.
• Apply structured problem-solving (Lean, Six Sigma, 8D, PPS, RedX) to resolve technical challenges using data-driven decision-making.

Desired Skills and Experience

• Knowledge of robotics, automation, and controls systems — from specification to commissioning.
• Expertise in one or more of the following:
• High-volume composite manufacturing (CFRP/RTM)
• CNC machining and high-tolerance assembly
• Hydraulic systems and testing
• NDT techniques (X-Ray/Ultrasonics)
• Proficiency with 3D CAD tools (CATIA, AutoCAD, or equivalent).
• Experience in a highly regulated industry, preferably aerospace or similar.
• Understanding of 3D printing, rapid prototyping, and virtual manufacturing tools.
• Familiarity with condition-based monitoring, real-time data acquisition, and “factory of the future” systems.
• Financial awareness, including Net Present Value (NPV) and Future Value analysis.
• Experience managing subcontractors, vendors, and commissioning projects.
• Strong grasp of Health & Safety and CDM regulations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in an Engineering discipline.
• Demonstrated experience in technical project or programme management within a manufacturing engineering environment.
• Hands-on experience in NPI, including facility design, specification, and commissioning in an automated production setting (automotive, FMCG, logistics, etc.).
• Proven knowledge of Lean principles, APQP, and structured problem-solving methodologies.
• Self-motivated and proactive, with the ability to work independently toward defined goals.
• Excellent communication and influencing skills at all organisational levels, supported by a data-driven mindset.

Flexible Working

GE Aerospace values flexibility and supports working arrangements that promote a positive work-life balance, wherever possible.

Total Reward

Our FlexChoice benefits plan offers freedom, flexibility, and control over how you manage your rewards.
Standard benefits for new joiners include:

• Non-contributory pension
• Life assurance
• Group income protection
• Private medical cover

26 days’ annual leave (pro rata), with the option to buy or sell leave

Security Clearance

This role requires Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) clearance, which must be obtained and maintained.
If BPSS clearance cannot be achieved, employment may not proceed for reasons of national security.

Right to Work

Applications from candidates requiring UK work sponsorship are welcomed and will be assessed equally.
However, under UK immigration rules, preference may be given to suitably qualified candidates who do not require sponsorship if available.

Join Us

Help invent the future of flight. At GE Aerospace, you’ll work on technologies that define the next era of aviation — from sustainable propulsion to advanced manufacturing.
Here, your ideas lift the world.