Composite Manufacturing Engineer

Job Description

About Dowty Propellers

At Dowty Propellers, a proud part of GE Aerospace, we specialize in designing, manufacturing, repairing, and overhauling advanced propeller systems for both military and civil aviation applications. Based in Gloucestershire, UK, we operate from a cutting-edge facility dedicated to innovation and excellence in aerospace technology.

Role Overview

Join our Composite Production Manufacturing Engineering team, where you’ll play an essential role in supporting the production of carbon composite propeller systems. In this position, you’ll focus on improving manufacturing processes, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring adherence to regulatory standards, all while driving continuous development in parts, processes, and designs. Your work will ensure that we maintain the highest levels of quality and meet our design goals.

As a key player in the manufacturing environment, you’ll collaborate closely with teams across planning, operations, quality, and engineering to ensure the efficient, fast-paced production of reliable, airworthy products.

Key Responsibilities

• Work within a dynamic, skilled team to address and resolve manufacturing challenges, driving pragmatic solutions.
• Present data-driven solutions to manufacturing issues using Lean and structured problem-solving methods (such as Six Sigma, Red X, 8D, and Lean).
• Develop and refine production techniques from raw material to finished product, keeping Safety, Quality, Delivery, and Cost (SQDC) at the forefront of decision-making.
• Write and continuously improve clear, concise manufacturing work instructions that align with technical specifications.
• Provide training and guidance to manufacturing operatives on updates to work instructions and production techniques.
• Develop and manage manufacturing data collection systems and process records.
• Create and maintain detailed lists for equipment, parts, and spare tools, ensuring alignment with safety documentation.
• Lead and support Root Cause Corrective Action (RCCA) initiatives and represent the Manufacturing Engineering (ME) team in broader business discussions.
• Propose and develop new technology for fixtures, tooling, and equipment to enhance manufacturing processes.
• Use statistical analysis to assess production data, identifying trends and potential production issues.
• Develop and approve product salvage or rework instructions when necessary.
• Contribute actively to achieving improvements in manufacturing metrics, such as Throughput, Yield, Cycle Time, and Defects-Per-Unit.

Required Qualifications

• Minimum NVQ Level 3 with a strong understanding of manufacturing engineering in a composite environment.
• Ideally, HNC Level 4 in manufacturing or engineering, with proven experience as a Manufacturing Engineer in composite manufacturing.
• Familiarity with problem-solving methodologies such as Lean, Six Sigma, 8D, PPS, and RedX.
• Knowledge of health and safety regulations and compliance.
• Ability to interpret technical engineering drawings, BOMs, and specifications.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.

Desired Characteristics

• Experience in creating and maintaining work instructions within composite manufacturing.
• Familiarity with configuration control.
• Proficiency in 3D Catia, 2D AutoCAD, or other CAD software.
• Experience in maintaining and developing fixtures, tooling, and equipment.
• Background in highly regulated industries (aviation preferred, but not essential).
• Understanding of 3D printing and its application in part production.

Flexible Working

GE promotes flexible working arrangements where possible, recognizing the importance of a healthy work-life balance.

Total Reward

We understand that Total Reward means more than just a paycheck. Our flexible benefits plan, FlexChoice, gives you the freedom and flexibility to tailor your benefits to fit your lifestyle, while also providing opportunities to make savings.

As a new member of the GE team, you will receive the following core benefits:

• Non-contributory pension
• Life assurance
• Group income protection
• Private medical coverage
• 26 days of annual leave (with the option to buy or sell)

Security Clearance

This role requires Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) clearance, which must be maintained throughout your employment. If BPSS clearance cannot be obtained, eligibility for the role or any job offer may be withdrawn due to national security considerations. For more information, please refer to the BPSS clearance guidelines.

Right to Work

We welcome applications from candidates who require sponsorship to work in the UK. These applications will be considered alongside all other candidates. However, according to UK immigration rules, preference may be given to candidates who do not require sponsorship if there is a suitable qualified candidate available. For more details, please visit the UK Visas and Immigration website.

Additional Information

Relocation Assistance: Not provided