Principal Continuous Improvement Engineer

A global leading manufacturer of precision engineered components to the Aerospace, Defence & Energy Sectors has a new vacancy for a Principal Continuous Improvement Engineer. Part of the senior operational excellence team, you will play a key role in identifying opportunities to improve manufacturing processes, reduce waste, enhance quality, and increase productivity. Candidates are sought with a proven track record of driving continuous improvement, a good understanding of CNC machining processes and will have worked in a fast paced highly regulated manufacturing environment (aerospace, automotive, defence, etc)

The Role

Lead the analysis of production data to identify performance trends, root causes, and improvement opportunities, translating findings into strategic action plans.

Drive the optimisation of machining operations, maximising machine utilisation, tooling performance, cycle times, and overall workflow efficiency

Lead continuous improvement projects from initial assessment and feasibility studies through to implementation, validation, and sustained performance gains.

Establish, monitor, and report on key performance indicators (KPIs), using data-driven insights to evaluate performance, prioritise initiatives, and drive accountability.

Champion operational excellence through process standardisation, structured problem-solving, best-practice implementation, and employee engagement initiatives.

Ensure all improvement activities comply with health and safety requirements, quality standards, engineering specifications, and operational procedures.

Provide technical leadership and guidance to support the development of machining processes, improve operational capability, and embed a culture of continuous improvement.

Identify and deliver opportunities to reduce manufacturing costs, minimise downtime, improve productivity, and enhance overall equipment effectiveness (OEE).

The Person

Proven track record of driving lean manufacturing and continuous improvement methodologies.

A good understanding of CNC machining processes.

Previous experience within a fast paced and highly regulated environment ((aerospace, defence, energy, etc).

Excellent leadership and influencing skills.

Strong analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.

Ability to interpret data and translate findings into practical solutions.

A proactive approach with a passion for challenging the status quo
Only candidates based in UK and eligible to work in UK are allowed