Operations Manager

Location: Schonbeck, Germany

Clerkin Connect is hiring on behalf of a client for an experienced Manufacturing Engineer.

Our client delivers complex engineering and construction projects for leading organisations. The business provides construction solutions across multiple sectors, including enterprise and hyperscale data centres, advanced technology and life sciences, and fire protection. This position offers the opportunity to join a growing prefabrication and offsite manufacturing operation and play a key role in improving production capability, quality, and efficiency.

Scope of the role

As Manufacturing Engineer, you will support the design, development, implementation, and continuous improvement of manufacturing processes within the client’s prefabrication and offsite manufacturing facility in Schonbeck, Germany.

Working closely with production, engineering, quality, procurement, and site teams, the successful candidate will help ensure that products are manufactured safely, efficiently, on schedule, and in accordance with required technical and quality standards.

The role will focus on process optimisation, production readiness, technical problem-solving, work instructions, manufacturing data, and the introduction of practical improvements that increase capacity, consistency, and productivity.

Roles and Responsibilities

• Develop, document, and improve manufacturing processes for prefabricated and offsite-manufactured assemblies.
• Translate engineering designs and project requirements into practical, repeatable manufacturing methods and work instructions.
• Support production planning by reviewing drawings, bills of materials, routings, tooling requirements, labour needs, and manufacturing sequences.
• Work with production teams to identify constraints, resolve technical issues, and minimise disruption to output and delivery schedules.
• Analyse production performance and recommend improvements to cycle time, workflow, capacity, quality, and material utilisation.
• Apply Lean manufacturing and continuous improvement principles to reduce waste and improve operational efficiency.
• Support the introduction of new products, processes, equipment, and technologies into the manufacturing environment.
• Design or specify jigs, fixtures, tools, and workstation improvements where required.
• Prepare and maintain manufacturing documentation, including standard operating procedures, process instructions, control plans, and technical records.
• Participate in root-cause analysis and corrective action activities relating to quality, production, and process issues.
• Ensure manufacturing processes comply with health and safety requirements, quality standards, and applicable regulations.
• Collaborate with quality teams to establish inspection points, acceptance criteria, and process controls.
• Liaise with procurement and supply-chain teams regarding material specifications, availability, substitutions, and supplier-related issues.
• Support Material Requirements Planning and the accuracy of manufacturing data within relevant systems.
• Provide technical support and guidance to supervisors, tradespeople, and production operatives.
• Contribute to facility expansion, layout planning, equipment selection, and production-capacity projects as required.

Criteria

• A third-level qualification in manufacturing, mechanical, production, industrial engineering, or a related discipline.
• Relevant experience in a manufacturing, prefabrication, engineering, or production environment.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, production workflows, and continuous improvement methods.
• Experience interpreting engineering drawings, specifications, bills of materials, and technical documentation.
• Practical knowledge of Lean manufacturing principles; Six Sigma certification would be an advantage.
• Experience with problem-solving tools, root-cause analysis, and corrective actions.
• Knowledge of quality control methods and a strong commitment to safety and quality.
• Experience with Material Requirements Planning, ERP, or production-planning systems would be an advantage.
• Strong organisational, analytical, communication, and stakeholder-management skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook; experience with CAD or manufacturing software would be beneficial.
• Ability to work independently, manage competing priorities, and deliver within deadline-driven environments.
• Working knowledge of mechanical plant systems, ventilation systems, process and high-purity pipework, and HVAC systems would be advantageous.

To apply, please contact Clerkin Connect or submit your CV through this advertisement.