Manufacturing Engineering Manager - Development

Your role

As the Manufacturing Engineering Manager - Development at Edwards, you will play a pivotal role in shaping how we design and manufacture innovative products. Your leadership will drive manufacturing excellence within the Product Development organisation, ensuring new product designs are optimised for manufacturability, quality, cost efficiency, and serviceability from concept through to production ramp-up. You will champion key methodologies such as Design for Excellence (DFx), structured New Product Introduction (NPI) processes, and comprehensive risk assessments (PFMEA), to deliver products that meet customer expectations and operational standards robustly and sustainably.

Your day-to-day

In your day-to-day role, you will provide strategic leadership to the Product Development Manufacturing Engineering team, guiding them to embed manufacturing expertise early in the development cycle. You will collaborate closely with cross-functional teams including Design Engineering, Operations, Quality, and Supply Chain to ensure seamless integration of manufacturing considerations in product design and industrialisation. You will lead the development and enforcement of NPI standards and DFx strategies, actively participate in technical and manufacturing reviews, and foster a culture focused on continuous improvement, knowledge sharing, and high performance.

Your skills and experience

Required Skills and Experience:

• A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Manufacturing, Electrical, Electronics, Mechanical Engineering, or an equivalent qualification.
• Extensive experience leading manufacturing engineering efforts within product development or new product introduction environments.
• Deep knowledge of DFx methodologies including Design for Manufacturability (DFM), Design for Assembly (DFA), Design for Test (DFT), and cost-based design principles.
• Proven expertise in conducting and integrating DFMEA and PFMEA in structured NPI processes to identify and mitigate risks early.
• Strong understanding of electronics manufacturing processes such as Surface Mount Technology (SMT), through-hole assembly, product testing, and final integration.
• Demonstrated ability to influence and align design and senior stakeholder teams through expert communication and collaboration without formal authority.
• Leadership experience fostering team development, coaching, and building inclusive, high-performing groups.
• Familiarity with MRP/ERP systems, preferably SAP, and standard engineering and project management tools.
• Fluent proficiency in spoken and written English.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Chartered Engineer (CEng) accreditation is advantageous.
• Experience with Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) and digital manufacturing technologies.
• Lean Six Sigma certification or equivalent continuous improvement qualifications.
• Track record supporting manufacturing operations across global, multi-site environments.

We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and encourage individuals who demonstrate potential and eagerness to learn, even if not all criteria are fully met, reflecting our commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Your compensation and benefits

At Edwards, we believe in rewarding talent fairly and transparently. Your total compensation will reflect the responsibilities of your role and the expertise you bring, aligned to the local market and industry standards. We ensure that compensation decisions are equitable, unbiased, and inclusive of all diverse identities and backgrounds.

Beyond salary, we offer a stimulating career environment that supports your professional growth through opportunities for skill development, advancement, and contribution to impactful projects. Our culture emphasizes trust, collaboration, and innovation, providing you with the space to thrive and make a meaningful difference in your work.

Your job location

This position is based on-site in our Eastbourne office, situated in the UK, within the Edwards Ltd - Eastbourne Product Company. Working face-to-face with a dedicated and experienced team enables dynamic collaboration and rapid problem-solving, key to delivering operational excellence. We value the importance of co-located teamwork for innovative product development and manufacturing success.

Why it is great to work with us

Joining Edwards means becoming part of a global community that values your growth, curiosity, and the power of teamwork. We foster an environment where knowledge is freely exchanged, innovation is encouraged, and long-term career development is supported. You will have the opportunity to contribute your unique insights and talents in a company dedicated to developing pioneering solutions with a profound impact on our customers and industries worldwide. Our leadership style empowers you with autonomy and supports flexible working arrangements that suit your needs.

Application process

We value transparency and engagement during the recruitment process. You will be supported by our Talent Acquisition team who will guide you through each stage, addressing any queries you might have. We look forward to learning more about your unique strengths and how they align with our vision and growth plans. Reach out to Joanna Fifield at any point for assistance or information related to your application journey.