Process Engineer

Job description

At Eakin Healthcare, care is at the heart of everything we do. We are a family-owned global medical device company driven by a simple vision: Where Care Leads, Hope Follows. For more than 50 years, we've been developing innovative healthcare solutions that make a meaningful difference to the lives of patients around the world. Today, our team of over 700 colleagues operates across three UK manufacturing sites, 12 international sales and distribution centres, and exports to more than 60 countries worldwide. From market-leading Ostomy and Respiratory therapies to our trusted Respond home delivery service, we're committed to improving lives through innovation, quality and exceptional care. We don't just care for the people who use our products and services, we care for our colleagues too. That's why we're proud to be recognised as a Great Place to Work® , creating an environment where people can thrive, grow and make a real impact. If you're looking for a career with purpose, where your work matters and your contribution is valued, we'd love to hear from you. WHY JOIN US? Join us and you can benefit from: Annual Bonus 25 days holiday plus bank holidays (rising to 28 with service) Option to buy holiday days Wellbeing Programme Health Cash Plan Pension Life Assurance Enhanced Maternity/Paternity Cycle to Work Scheme Long Service Awards Free Onsite Parking JOB OVERVIEW Job Title: Process Engineer (3 positions available) Reporting to: Engineering Manager Hours per week: 37.5 Shift Work: Yes, covering Monday to Friday 06:00 - 22:00. On call rotation to cover weekends. Travel: Occasional, between sites Direct Reports: None JOB PURPOSE We are seeking 3 Process Engineer's who will take ownership for improving process performance, strengthening process control and supporting reliable, compliant manufacture in a regulated medical device environment. This is an opportunity to make a visible impact on safety, quality, output, cost and overall equipment effectiveness. The role combines hands-on shop-floor problem solving with structured improvement activity, new product introduction, validation support and collaboration with colleagues across the wider Group Operations Engineering team. The successful candidates will be comfortable working close to production, using data to understand performance, engaging operators and supervisors, and turning technical issues into practical, sustainable improvements. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Operational Excellence Build and maintain deep technical expertise across assigned production areas, including processes, equipment, products and critical controls. Analyse production performance and shop-floor activity to identify losses and drive improvements in OEE, yield, flow and cost. Partner with Quality to maintain robust process specifications, validated parameters, controls and documentation. Support new product introduction by developing practical manufacturing solutions covering equipment, tooling, materials, training and documentation. Collaborate with Engineering to plan and implement equipment, tooling and process changes. Optimise manufacturing processes using Lean, engineering and structured problem-solving methodologies to improve safety, quality and efficiency. Maintain process maps, PFMEAs and related documentation to ensure effective risk management and process control. Lead or support root cause investigations into process issues, non-conformances, downtime and yield losses, implementing sustainable corrective actions. Work closely with production teams to strengthen standard work, training, process compliance and operator capability. Ensure all technical records and documentation are accurate, controlled and compliant with company and regulatory requirements. Continuous Improvement Champion Lean manufacturing principles to deliver measurable improvements in safety, quality, delivery, cost and employee engagement. Drive continuous improvement initiatives, including 5S, visual management, standard work and problem-solving activities. Identify and implement opportunities to reduce waste, improve process flow and enhance operational performance. Collaboration & Group Support Collaborate with colleagues across Eakin Healthcare sites to share best practice, standardise approaches and drive continuous improvement. Contribute to cross-site engineering, process improvement and strategic projects, supporting successful implementation and knowledge transfer. AS A SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE YOU’LL HAVE: Essential Degree, HND or equivalent qualification in an engineering discipline; HNC may be considered where supported by significant relevant experience. Experience in manufacturing, process engineering, manufacturing engineering or continuous improvement within a production environment. Proven track record of delivering measurable process improvements using Lean, Six Sigma or structured problem-solving methodologies. Strong understanding of manufacturing performance measures, including OEE, quality, process capability, yield, cost and waste reduction. Ability to analyse production data, identify trends and translate insights into practical improvement actions. Working knowledge of electromechanical manufacturing equipment and processes. Experience in process validation. Proficient in Microsoft Excel and the use of production, quality and technical data to support decision-making. Experience using 2D and 3D CAD software to create models, engineering drawings and factory layouts Strong communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to build effective relationships across production, quality, engineering and support functions. Full driving licence and willingness to travel occasionally to other sites and suppliers. Desirable Experience within a regulated manufacturing environment, such as medical devices (ISO 13485), pharmaceuticals or similar. Experience supporting new product introduction (NPI), process validation or structured project delivery. Experience of manual assembly manufacturing processes. Experience with automation, robotics or smart manufacturing technologies. Six Sigma Green Belt (or higher) qualification. Knowledge of industrial control and connectivity systems, including PLCs, HMIs, OPC UA and industrial networking. Experience with manufacturing data systems and visualisation tools, such as Ignition, Power BI or Ignition Perspective. Understanding of Industry 4.0 principles and digital manufacturing technologies. COMPETENCIES Problem Solving – Generates practical solutions, identifies the best way forward and makes timely decisions within the appropriate level of authority. Resilience – Works effectively under pressure, remains calm, thinks clearly and responds constructively to setbacks, feedback and changing priorities. Team Working – Works collaboratively with others, supports team objectives and contributes positively to cross-functional working. Analytical Thinking – Uses data, facts and structured analysis to understand issues, identify trends and support effective decisions. Planning and Organising – Plans work effectively, considers key stages and requirements, and monitors progress to ensure actions are implemented and delivered. Oral Communication – Communicates clearly and confidently, adapting the message to the audience and ensuring key points are understood. Interpersonal / Influencing – Builds effective working relationships and influences others through clear reasoning, collaboration and credibility rather than hierarchy. Technical Expertise – Applies strong technical knowledge to support process performance, advise others, maintain validated processes and keep up to date with relevant developments The closing date for applications is: 28th September 2026 Equality, Diversity & Inclusion We are committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion and welcome applications from all qualified candidates. We value different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives and are dedicated to providing equal opportunities for all. Right to Work in the UK Please note that Eakin Healthcare is unable to provide sponsorship for this role. Applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK at the time of application Early Closure Statement We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive a high volume of applications, so we encourage early submission. #SJ