Lead Engineer - Manufacturing (111642-0726)

Duration: Fixed term contract until 31 March 2028

About the Role  

Informal Queries

• For informal queries, please contact Jacqui Murray (Director, South Wales) at Jacqui.Murray@warwick.ac.uk

Flexible Working

• We will consider applications for employment on a part-time or other flexible working basis (e.g. job share), despite the position being advertised as full-time.

This role provides manufacturing leadership across South Wales, delivering hands-on support to help companies boost productivity and competitiveness. You will enable businesses to adopt advanced digital technologies, innovate, and differentiate their products, processes and capabilities.

Working as part of WMG and the High Value Manufacturing Catapult (HVMC), you’ll play a role in supporting economic growth, skills development and industrial innovation through applied research and technology adoption. You’ll benefit from the expertise of a UK-wide network of manufacturing specialists, while being part of a supportive, close-knit team based in Baglan, Neath Port Talbot.

You will lead and deliver projects that tackle real-world industry challenges, creating practical and scalable solutions with clear commercial impact. A key focus will be helping Welsh manufacturers improve their productivity, implement automation and robotics, and embed advanced digital manufacturing techniques.

Collaborating closely with HVM Catapult centre specialist engineers, industry partners, Welsh organisations and academic institutions, you will play a central role in transforming manufacturing performance across South Wales.

You’ll be joining a diverse and purpose-driven team based in Baglan and given the tools and support needed to make a tangible difference to the future of Welsh industry.

About You  

You are an experienced and credible manufacturing engineer with a strong track record in industry, whether through leadership, technical expertise, or both. You bring hands-on experience of production environments and a passion for improving processes, particularly through automation, digitalisation, or continuous improvement.

You’re comfortable working with a wide range of stakeholders, from shop floor teams to senior leaders, and have the communication skills to influence, guide, and build trust. Organised and proactive, you can manage multiple projects and priorities while maintaining a focus on delivering tangible outcomes. Above all, you are motivated by making a difference, applying your expertise to help businesses in Wales grow, innovate, and succeed.

Full details of the duties and selection criteria for this role can be found in the vacancy advert on the University of Warwick's jobs pages. You will be routed to this when you click on the 'Apply' button.

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