Description

An engineer for product is responsible for overseeing the production process of an item, usually in an indoor manufacturing setting. They ensure that the production requirements are fulfilled efficiently and at a reasonable cost. They are often required to decide what materials are required in the construction of the product and how to put together the product to ensure its quality and also how to run an assembly line using machines and human resources. Production engineers have to work with the company's leaders to decide the need for the product as well as the budget within which the product will be manufactured. The product engineer has to collaborate with the software that controls the machinery in the factory and workers in the production and factory to ensure that the tasks are completed in a timely manner. They are usually accountable for determining the amount of workers needed to make the product, and are typically involved in the selection process for those employees.

Production engineers typically hold a bachelor's degree in chemical engineering or mechanical engineering, based on the particulars of the job. Production engineers typically have master's degrees as well however it's not necessary. For a position as a head engineer in production is to possess at least 5 to 7 years' relevant experience in a production environment. The skills required of an engineer in production include AutoCad, exceptional written and oral communication skills, troubleshooting abilities and a knack to work using production software.

The typical working hours of a production engineer differ, but they are typically working during the day, with an average 40 to 60 hours working week. Because production engineers are often employed for large manufacturing firms traveling - sometimes globally - is often necessary.

Roles & Responsibilities

As a Production Engineer with 6-9 years of experience in the United Kingdom, your main responsibilities are:

  • Oversee and optimize production processes for efficiency, ensuring timely completion and adherence to quality standards.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify areas for improvement and implement solutions to enhance productivity.
  • Conduct regular audits and inspections to ensure compliance with safety regulations, identify potential hazards, and recommend corrective actions.
  • Provide technical expertise and guidance to junior engineers, fostering their professional growth and development.

Qualifications & Work Experience

For a Production Engineer job role, the following qualifications are required:

  • Bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field to establish a strong foundation of technical knowledge and principles.
  • Proficiency in manufacturing processes and methodologies to optimize production efficiency and ensure product quality.
  • Strong problem-solving skills to analyze production issues, identify root causes, and implement effective solutions.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with cross-functional teams, including designers, technicians, and suppliers, to drive continuous improvement and meet production goals.

Essential Skills For Production Engineer

1

Pricing

2

Lean Startup

3

Process Management

4

Leadership Management

5

Team Management

6

People Management

Skills That Affect Production Engineer Salaries

Different skills can affect your salary. Below are the most popular skills and their effect on salary.

Process Management

4%

Design & Manufacturing

5%

Production Management

6%

Career Prospects

The Production Engineer job role requires 6-9 years of experience in the United Kingdom. Here are following alternative roles for professionals with a similar background:

  • Senior Manufacturing Engineer: This role involves overseeing production processes, improving efficiency, and implementing quality control measures.
  • Operations Manager: A position responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of a manufacturing facility, ensuring smooth workflow, and optimizing resource utilization.
  • Quality Assurance Manager: This role focuses on maintaining product quality standards, implementing quality control procedures, and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.
  • Project Manager: A position involving the coordination and execution of various projects, including resource allocation, timeline management, and delivering successful outcomes.

How to Learn

According to the latest data available, the job role of Production Engineer in the United Kingdom is expected to experience significant growth in the market. Over the past 10 years, there has been a consistent upward trend in the demand for Production Engineers. This growth is projected to continue in the foreseeable future, with a substantial number of employment opportunities expected to be available. The rise in advanced manufacturing technologies as well as the increasing emphasis on efficiency and quality control are the key drivers behind this positive trend. Overall, the future outlook for the Production Engineer role in the UK job market appears extremely promising.