IE and OpEx Engineer

IE and OpEx Engineer

Life Unlimited. At Smith+Nephew, we craft and manufacture technology that takes the limits off living.

The Industrial Engineer – Operational Excellence will optimise production processes, enhance efficiency, and drive continuous improvement initiatives across manufacturing operations. This role combines industrial engineering technical expertise with strategic operational excellence leadership to deliver balanced performance improvements.

What will you be doing?

This role is primarily focused on optimizing manufacturing operations through a combination of time and motion studies, equipment and capacity planning, and the application of Lean tools. A key responsibility includes evaluating machine and labor capacities to determine the optimal headcount and workflow efficiency, while also maintaining accurate data in the ERP system. The Industrial Engineer also plays a significant role in developing and implementing business and engineering solutions that minimize cycle time, eliminate redundant processes, and enhance overall production throughput.

Additionally, the role involves collaborating with cross-functional teams to design manufacturing layouts, support material flow solutions, and lead continuous improvement initiatives. This includes floor planning, standard work development, and the implementation of Lean manufacturing practices to ensure consistent performance and quality. By conducting space modeling and layout planning, the engineer supports business demands and ramp-up activities while actively contributing to site-wide operational excellence goals.

What will you need to be successful?

The ideal candidate should hold a Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing Management, Industrial Engineering, or a related field, complemented by practical skills in tools such as Microsoft Office, Visio, Microsoft Project, and AutoCAD. Familiarity with time study methods such as MTM, MODAPTS, and MOST is important for effective process analysis and optimisation.

With a minimum of 3–5 years of experience in manufacturing management—preferably within the medical device industry—the candidate is encouraged to demonstrate expertise in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and Continuous Improvement initiatives. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, clear communication, and the ability to collaborate within a team-oriented environment are key proficiencies for success in this role.

You. Unlimited.

We believe in creating the greatest good for society. Our strongest investments are in our people and the patients we serve.

Inclusion, Diversity and Equity : Committed to Welcoming, Celebrating and Thriving on Diversity, Learn more about our Employee Inclusion Groups on our website ()

Your Future : Generous annual bonus and pension Schemes, Save As You Earn share options.

Work / Life Balance : Flexible Vacation and Time Off, Paid Holidays and Paid Volunteering Hours, so we can give back to our communities!

Your Wellbeing : Private Health and Dental plans, Healthcare Cash Plans, Income Protection, Life Assurance and much more.

Flexibility : Hybrid Working Model (For most professional roles).

Training : Hands-On, Team-Customised, Mentorship.