Manufacturing systems engineer jobs

A manufacturing systems engineer's goal is to make a manufacturing process as efficient as possible so that manufacturers can produce goods and products on time and within budget.

You'll work as part of a team to design, implement, monitor, and develop manufacturing equipment and assembly lines in factories as a manufacturing systems engineer.

You could also work on the design and construction of new manufacturing plants.

Engineers that specialize in manufacturing systems attempt to integrate the entire production process. This includes everything from production and supply to sales. The goal is to manufacture as much high-quality goods as possible at the lowest cost and in the quickest period possible.

You'll apply cutting-edge computer technology and a systematic approach to finance, processes, materials, and technology that cuts over traditional departmental lines.

Responsibilities

Rather than focusing on one aspect of the process, a manufacturing systems engineer is typically accountable for the entire project. The following are examples of typical tasks:

creating 3D models of the plant architecture using computer-aided design/manufacturing (CAD/CAM) software

plant control systems design, development, and installation

collaborating with engineers, designers, and researchers

Attending manufacturing meetings and estimating production needs

determining the expenses of production, which include equipment, time, and labor

ensuring efficient use of resources, such as raw materials, equipment, and personnel

making timetables for maintenance

ensuring that systems are functioning properly and discovering, investigating, and correcting any system flaws

discussing and assessing system faults with non-technical workers and plant management

overseeing manufacturing engineers, trainee engineers, and support personnel

supervising equipment installation, repair, and re-assembly

showing systems engineers, support personnel, and production managers new and existing equipment

Environmental dangers are investigated, as well as safety checks and potential hazards are eliminated.

meeting with management to examine ways to increase the productivity of existing systems while incorporating cutting-edge technologies

locating new industrial equipment providers

new mechanical equipment testing, monitoring, and evaluation

inside the manufacturing environment, building and implementing a quality culture

touring different manufacturing facilities

Salary

Manufacturing engineers' starting salaries range between £22,000 and £27,500, depending on the location, size, and type of the company. Relevant work experience could help you earn a higher beginning wage.

Manufacturing systems engineers earn between £25,000 and £40,000, depending on their degree of experience and skill.

Chartered engineers can earn anywhere from £40,000 to £60,000 per year.

Depending on your job, function, and responsibilities, you may be able to earn a higher salary. Some employers may additionally provide additional perks such as pensions and healthcare plans.

The income statistics are only intended to be used as a reference.

Hours of work

Working hours might range from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, or include rota-based early starts, late finishes, and weekend employment.

If there is continuous production, jobs may require shift work, especially early in your career.

Part-time and flexible work may be available, depending on the nature of your job and your company.

What to anticipate

Depending on the job, the working environment may include a plant floor, an office, a workshop, or a laboratory.

The bulk of manufacturing systems engineers operate in the production sector, where the sort of product being created dictates the working circumstances. The environment could be clean, bright, and airy, or it could be noisy and filthy.

You may need to wear protective gear, such as a safety helmet and glasses, depending on your responsibilities.

Self-employment and freelance work opportunities are occasionally available for persons with significant experience.

In most parts of the country, jobs are mostly accessible in historic industrial towns and cities, as well as, increasingly, in newer industrial estates.

Currently, women are underrepresented in this field. WISE is an initiative aimed at encouraging more women into the sector.

Senior engineers, particularly those who work for global corporations, frequently travel within a working day and overseas.

Qualifications

A degree is required to work in manufacturing systems engineering. Engineering and physical, mathematical, or applied sciences are examples of relevant courses.

The following topics in particular could be beneficial:

Computer-assisted or computer-based engineering

engineering (electrical or electronic)

manufacturing and/or mechanical engineering

mechanical engineering design

manufacturing and production engineering

With an HND or foundation degree, you can start your career as a trainee. Engineering and mechanical engineering are two courses that are relevant.

Although a pre-entry postgraduate diploma is not required, it can be beneficial, especially if your first degree was not in a closely related field. Masters degrees are available in a variety of fields, including:

manufacturing

engineering for manufacturing systems

Control or production engineering

If your degree or master's degree is accredited by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, it will assist you earn chartered engineer status later (IMechE). Engineering Council - Accredited Course Search has information on accredited courses.

Without a degree or HND, you might work your way up to the position of manufacturing systems engineer by gaining the requisite skills and knowledge (and possibly obtaining higher credentials).

Skills

You must demonstrate:

technical capabilities, such as strong scientific, math, and IT abilities

a method of problem-solving that is both practical and rational

Communication, presentation, and interpersonal abilities

teamwork abilities

ability to motivate others and self-motivation

a work style that is versatile and flexible

the ability to operate well under duress and accept new difficulties

determination to conquer difficulties

Time management and organization skills

competence in project management and the capacity to meet tight deadlines

an understanding of health and safety concerns

Professional experience

Work experience is valuable, and many large companies provide structured internship and summer placement programs. These are often hands-on and provide fantastic insight into the nature of the work.

Some degree programs include a year in industry, which can be quite beneficial in terms of demonstrating what the career will be like and developing valuable contacts for future job opportunities.

Employers may prefer that you have several years of experience working in an industrial setting to develop your technical skills before applying for this position. As a result, you might want to look into other technical or manufacturing jobs first. Don't let this deter you from applying for graduate positions; each firm has distinct entry requirements.

Learn more about the various types of work experience and internships offered.

Employers

Manufacturing systems engineers are employed by many manufacturing organizations, albeit the job title differs by company.

The role may be merged with other functions in extremely small organizations, which are generally privately owned.

Employment opportunities are primarily found in medium and large manufacturing firms, in industries such as:

aerospace

automotive

electronics

engineering

food and beverage

technology of information

pharmaceuticals

construction of ships

Chemical and heavy engineering, textiles, and the printing industry all employ manufacturing systems engineers.

Specialist engineering and management firms are offering more opportunities. Engineers who want to work in consultancy often need a solid honors degree and several years of engineering experience.