Process Engineer

Since 1972, Superior has built a reputation by meeting its customers' current needs and anticipating future challenges.

We are a leading manufacturer dedicated to producing high-quality o-rings and seals. Every day, we embrace a culture of continuous improvement in the design, manufacturing, and supply of precision sealing solutions that meet the highest standards of integrity and performance.

We have 5 sites in Dorset, 4 on the Ferndown Industrial Estate and 1 in Verwood and are currently looking for a Process Engineer to be based at one of our sites in Ferndown although there will be travel to our site in Verwood .

This is a hands‑on role which would suit someone who enjoys working in a fast‑paced manufacturing environment and engaging with operators, supervisors, engineering, and leadership teams to build a culture of continuous improvement.

Summary:

This role forms part of the Quality and Technical function and is responsible for driving quality improvements directly on the production floor by working closely with manufacturing teams to improve process capability, reduce defects, eliminate waste, and ensure products consistently meet customer and regulatory requirements.

This position combines process engineering expertise with quality management principles, using Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma methodologies to deliver sustainable operational improvements.

Key Responsibilities and Accountabilities:

• Lead quality improvement initiatives across all manufacturing sites.
• Monitor manufacturing processes to identify opportunities to improve quality, efficiency, and productivity.
• Investigate quality issues using structured problem‑solving methodologies.
• Drive root cause analysis and implement robust corrective and preventive actions (CAPA).
• Apply Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma tools to reduce variation, waste, scrap, and rework.
• Analyse production and quality data to identify trends and recommend process improvements.
• Develop and maintain process documentation, standard operating procedures, and control plans.
• Work closely with production teams to improve process capability and ensure adherence to quality standards.
• Support new product introduction by validating manufacturing processes and ensuring quality requirements are achieved.
• Conduct process audits and verify compliance with internal procedures and customer requirements.
• Provide coaching and guidance to production colleagues on quality tools and best practices.
• Participate in customer and supplier quality improvement activities when required.
• Support internal and external audits, including ISO and customer audits.
• Assist in developing KPIs to monitor manufacturing quality performance.
• Promote a culture of quality ownership throughout the manufacturing operation.

Experience and qualifications required:

• Degree or HNC/HND in Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Strong knowledge of improvement principles and best practices, supported by Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification ideally.
• Experience within a manufacturing or production environment.
• Proven experience driving quality improvements on the shop floor.
• Strong understanding of Lean Manufacturing principles.
• Experience conducting root cause investigations and implementing corrective actions.
• Knowledge of quality management systems
• Strong analytical and statistical problem‑solving skills.
• Experience interpreting manufacturing and quality data.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.

Skills & Competencies

• Excellent analytical, critical and problem‑solving abilities.
• Strong knowledge of quality tools and root cause analysis techniques.
• Effective teamwork and collaboration skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to influence stakeholders at all levels of the organisation.
• Data analysis and reporting proficiency.
• High attention to detail and commitment to compliance.

Benefits include:

• Company pension scheme
• Cycle to work scheme
• Private medical insurance after a qualifying period
• Profit sharing after a qualifying period
• On site parking
• Referral programme