Senior Manufacturing Engineer

Role Purpose 

As a Senior Manufacturing Engineer at Manna, reporting to the Head of MFG, you will play a critical role in scaling our drone production operations from low-rate builds to volume manufacturing. You will develop and optimise assembly and production processes, ensuring efficiency, repeatability, and quality while supporting manufacturability across new product introductions. This role requires strong technical, analytical, and cross-functional collaboration skills, helping drive operational excellence and readiness for future high-rate production. 

Key Responsibilities 

Define, optimise, and document manufacturing and assembly processes for drone systems (focus on repeatability, efficiency, and ergonomics). 

Collaborate with design engineering to improve manufacturability and reduce production cost through DFM/DFA best practices. 

Design or specify production tooling, jigs, fixtures, and assembly aids to enhance process efficiency. 

Lead production scaling activities from prototype (100 units/year) to mid-rate (500–1000 units/year) while maintaining quality and throughput. 

Implement process controls, perform root cause analysis (RCA), and drive continuous improvement initiatives using Lean and Six Sigma methodologies. 

Develop and maintain clear documentation, including work instructions, process sheets, and quality control checklists. 

Train operators and technicians in manufacturing procedures and quality standards. 

Work cross-functionally with Supply Chain, Quality, Test, and Operations teams to ensure smooth ramp-up and consistent delivery performance. 

Support factory layout planning, workflow optimisation, and process simulation for scalability. 

Identify and drive opportunities for cost reduction, automation, and process innovation. 

Bachelor's or master's degree in manufacturing, Mechanical, or Industrial Engineering (or related field). 

5–7 years of experience in manufacturing engineering, process optimisation, or production scaling within a high-tech environment. 

Strong understanding of DFM/DFA principles, Lean manufacturing, and continuous improvement methodologies. 

Experience designing and implementing jigs, fixtures, and tooling for assembly and test processes. 

Proficiency in CAD and process simulation tools (SolidWorks, CATIA, or equivalent). 

Hands-on experience with root cause analysis (8D, Ishikawa, FMEA) and corrective action implementation. 

Excellent documentation and training skills with a focus on quality and repeatability. 

Proven ability to manage scaling production environments and implement process control systems. 

Strong collaboration skills across engineering, manufacturing, and operations functions. 

Proactive, analytical, and adaptable, with a passion for improving processes and enabling growth. 

Full Driver's Licence