Manufacturing Project Engineer Jobs
If you’re motivated by problem-solving, continuous improvement, and bringing engineering concepts to life, Manufacturing Project Engineer jobs offer a dynamic and highly rewarding career path within Scotland’s fast-growing manufacturing sector. At Stafffinders, we support both experienced engineers and driven newcomers by connecting them with reputable employers, ensuring you secure a role that aligns with your technical strengths and long-term ambitions.
Manufacturing Project Engineers play a crucial part in ensuring production operations run efficiently and achieve the highest performance standards. From overseeing equipment installations to improving manufacturing processes and guiding technical projects, these engineers help businesses increase output, enhance product quality, and maintain operational excellence. Their work is essential across engineering, manufacturing, aerospace, electronics, and industrial production environments, where precision, innovation, and safety are paramount.
What Does a Manufacturing Project Engineer Do?
A Manufacturing Project Engineer oversees and supports a wide range of engineering and production projects, ensuring that manufacturing operations meet performance, cost, and quality targets. They act as a key link between engineering teams, production staff, suppliers, and senior management to deliver improvements that strengthen manufacturing capability. Typical responsibilities of a Manufacturing Project Engineer include:
Leading and supporting manufacturing improvement projects from planning to execution
Designing efficient production processes and recommending technical enhancements
Coordinating equipment installation, testing, and commissioning
Monitoring project timelines, budgets, and technical performance
Analysing production data to identify optimisation opportunities
Collaborating with cross-functional teams to deliver engineering solutions
Managing quality, safety, and compliance requirements throughout the project lifecycle
Providing technical expertise to support long-term manufacturing strategy
Manufacturing Project Engineers work closely with production managers, technicians, maintenance teams, quality engineers, and external suppliers to achieve seamless and effective operations.
Skills and Qualities for Manufacturing Project Engineer Jobs
To excel in this role, candidates need a mix of technical knowledge, practical engineering ability, and strong project management skills. Employers look for professionals who can think analytically, manage several priorities at once, and maintain a proactive approach in a fast-moving production environment.
Key skills and qualities include:
Strong engineering knowledge, ideally mechanical, electrical, or manufacturing-focused
Experience with lean manufacturing, process improvement, or continuous improvement methods
Excellent problem-solving and analytical thinking
Ability to interpret technical drawings and engineering documentation
Strong communication and collaboration skills across multiple departments
Understanding of health, safety, and quality standards in manufacturing
Practical experience with machinery, production equipment, or automation technologies
A willingness to learn, adapt, and adopt new manufacturing innovations
Experience within a manufacturing or engineering environment is highly advantageous, and many organisations offer training pathways for those with a strong technical foundation and the right mindset.
Training and Career Progression
Manufacturing Project Engineer roles provide excellent opportunities for long-term development. Many professionals expand their skills through engineering apprenticeships, degree programmes, or additional qualifications in project management or lean manufacturing.
With experience, you can progress into senior technical and management positions such as:
Senior Manufacturing Engineer
Project Engineering Lead
Production or Operations Manager
Continuous Improvement Manager
Engineering Manager
Automation or Process Specialist
As manufacturing technologies evolve, particularly in robotics, automation, and digital production, engineers who stay ahead of industry innovations will enjoy strong career prospects.
Explore Manufacturing Project Engineer jobs with Stafffinders today.