Manufacturing Engineer in Hailsham

Job Details

• Location : Hailsham, Lower Dicker, BN27 4EL
• Salary : Competitive
• Contract : Full-Time, Permanent
• Benefits :
• A competitive salary
• private medical insurance
• 25 days holiday
• salary sacrifice company pension
• life insurance
• a state‑of‑the‑art working environment

About VACGEN

VACGEN is a world‑leading manufacturer of ultra‑high vacuum (UHV) technology, supplying advanced solutions to scientific, industrial and research organisations across the globe.

We are looking for an experienced Manufacturing Engineer to join our Operations Engineering team. This is an exciting opportunity for a skilled machining and process engineering professional to play a key role in optimising manufacturing performance, supporting new product introduction and driving continuous improvement across our production operations.

If you have a passion for CNC machining, process development and engineering excellence, we'd love to hear from you.

The Role

As a Manufacturing Engineer, you will provide technical expertise and manufacturing support across our machining operations, helping to improve productivity, quality and efficiency. You will be responsible for CNC programming, fixture design, process optimisation and tooling management, while working closely with Production, Quality and Engineering teams to deliver innovative manufacturing solutions. This is a varied role offering the opportunity to influence manufacturing strategy, support complex engineering projects and contribute to the development of world‑class products.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and improve manufacturing processes to enhance quality, productivity and operational efficiency.
• Design bespoke workholding solutions and fixtures using SolidWorks, including both 3D models and manufacturing drawings.
• Create, modify and optimise CNC programs using machine controls and CAD/CAM software.
• Prove‑out CNC programs and support the transition of new products into production.
• Produce job set‑up sheets, work instructions and manufacturing documentation.
• Manage tooling and fixture requirements across machining operations.
• Support make‑versus‑buy decisions through manufacturing and cost analysis.
• Identify and implement cost reduction, waste reduction and continuous improvement opportunities.
• Evaluate and recommend new manufacturing methods, tooling and process improvements.
• Support production teams with technical expertise, problem‑solving and process training.
• Create training materials and provide guidance to operators and technicians.
• Participate in operational improvement projects and best practice initiatives.

About You

You will be an experienced Manufacturing Engineer with a strong background in CNC machining and process improvement within a precision engineering environment.

Essential Skills & Experience

• Extensive experience machining aluminium and stainless steel components.
• Strong knowledge of multi‑axis CNC machining, including 5‑axis, 3+2 and multitasking machines.
• Experience with fixed‑head CNC turning centres.
• Proven track record manufacturing complex, tightly toleranced components within sectors such as aerospace, automotive, medical, scientific or similar high‑precision industries.
• Ability to read, write and optimise NC G‑Code programmes.
• Experience using 3D CAD software such as SolidWorks, Creo, Siemens NX, Solid Edge or AutoCAD.
• Strong CAD/CAM experience within milling and turning environments.
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving and communication skills.
• Knowledge of Bills of Materials (BOMs), routings and engineering documentation.
• Strong IT skills, including Microsoft Office and ERP systems.
• Experience working in low‑volume or batch manufacturing environments.

Desirable Skills & Experience

• SolidWorks and SolidCAM experience.
• Knowledge of Vericut software.
• Experience with manufacturing automation, including palletisation and bar feeding systems.
• Project management experience.
• HNC/HND in Manufacturing, Production or Mechanical Engineering, or
• A recognised engineering apprenticeship with significant industry experience.
• Minimum five years' experience in a similar Manufacturing Engineer position.

Why Join VACGEN

At VACGEN, you'll become part of a highly skilled engineering team working on innovative products that support cutting‑edge science and technology worldwide. We offer a collaborative environment where continuous improvement, technical excellence and employee development are highly valued. This is a fantastic opportunity to broaden your expertise, influence manufacturing performance and contribute to the future growth of a globally recognised engineering business.

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