Process Manager – Heat Treatment (Aerospace)

About the role

We are seeking an experienced Process Manager – Heat Treatment to lead the specialist department within a well‑established aerospace manufacturing business. The role involves overseeing production planning, material control, process compliance and team leadership to ensure quality, efficiency and compliance with aerospace standards.

Key responsibilities

• Manage day‑to‑day operations of the Heat Treatment Department and a team of five, including two Team Leaders.
• Plan and coordinate production schedules to meet customer delivery requirements.
• Order and manage materials in line with production needs.
• Ensure compliance with aerospace specifications, customer requirements and industry standards.
• Oversee vacuum heat treatment, vacuum furnace operations, brazing and thermal processing activities.
• Conduct and review metallurgical inspections and process documentation.
• Monitor process performance and drive continuous improvement initiatives.
• Maintain equipment calibration, maintenance and effective operation.
• Collaborate with Quality, Production and Engineering teams to resolve technical issues.
• Uphold high standards of health, safety and environmental compliance.

Required profile

• Previous experience in a Heat Treatment or Vacuum Heat Treatment environment.
• Strong understanding of thermal processing, vacuum furnaces and brazing processes.
• Process engineering background with a degree in Engineering or related discipline.
• Proven experience managing people and leading teams.
• Knowledge of aerospace manufacturing standards and specifications.
• Excellent planning, organisational and problem‑solving abilities.

Required skills

• Heat Treatment
• Vacuum Heat Treatment
• Vacuum Furnace Operation
• Brazing
• Metallurgical Inspection
• Process Engineering
• Aerospace Manufacturing Standards
• Lean Manufacturing

What we offer

• Salary up to £45,000 per annum
• Overtime opportunities
• Pension scheme
• Life assurance
• Health benefits package
• 25 days holiday plus bank holidays
• Day‑shift position (Monday‑Friday)
• Long‑term career progression opportunities