Production Engineer

About Kuipers Engineering

Kuipers Engineering Pty Ltd is a leader in the custom special vehicle manufacturing industry. We design, engineer, and build high-quality, bespoke vehicles for a range of demanding sectors. Our reputation is built on innovation, precision engineering, and a commitment to excellence.

About the Role

We are seeking a practical and hands-on Production Engineer to optimise our manufacturing processes, ensure the highest quality standards, and provide direct technical support to our production team. You will be the critical link between design and production, ensuring our specialised vehicles are built efficiently, correctly, and to our rigorous standards.

Key Duties & Responsibilities:

· Production Process Management: Develop, document, and maintain efficient manufacturing and assembly processes for custom vehicle builds.

· Technical Support: Provide hands-on engineering support and guidance to tradespeople on the shop floor to resolve technical issues and ensure assembly meets Kuipers Engineering methods and standards.

· Continuous Improvement: Lead and participate in continuous improvement (Kaizen) initiatives to enhance safety, quality, and productivity using Lean Manufacturing principles.

· Design for Manufacture (DFM): Collaborate with the design engineering team to review designs for manufacturability, proposing modifications for ease of assembly and cost-effectiveness.

· Tooling & Fixture Design: Design, specify, and commission mechanical jigs, fixtures, and specialised tooling to improve assembly accuracy and efficiency.

· Quality & Root Cause Analysis: Investigate production non-conformances, perform root cause analysis (RCA), and implement effective corrective and preventive actions.

· Data Analysis & Reporting: Utilise production data from our MRP/ERP system to analyse performance, identify bottlenecks, and report on key production metrics to management.

About You: Essential Skills & Experience

To be successful in this role, you must meet the following criteria:

· Qualifications: A Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical, Automotive, Manufacturing, or Mechatronics) OR a relevant Trade Qualification (Fitter, Fitter & Turner, Metal Fabricator) combined with a diploma/advanced diploma in engineering.

· Experience: Minimum of 2 years of post-qualification experience in a production or manufacturing engineering role within a relevant industry (e.g., automotive, heavy machinery, aerospace, metal fabrication).

· Technical Proficiency:

· High proficiency in reading and interpreting complex 2D engineering drawings and geometric dimensioning & tolerancing (GD&T).

· Proficiency in 3D CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD) for designing fixtures and tooling.

· Strong understanding of mechanical principles and manufacturing methods (precision machining, welding, fabrication, mechanical assembly).

· Hands-on experience with MRP/ERP systems in a manufacturing context.

· Soft Skills:

· Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills with a practical, hands-on approach.

· Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to create clear work instructions and train production teams.

· Methodical, adaptable, with strong attention to detail and good judgement.

Desirable Skills:

· Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics.

· Formal qualifications or experience in Lean Six Sigma.

· Experience in the custom or special vehicle building industry.

What We Offer:

· A competitive annual salary of $75,000 - $80,000 + Super.

· A permanent, full-time role in a stable and innovative Australian business.

· A challenging and exciting opportunity to work on unique vehicle projects.

· Career growth opportunities within our growing company.

How to Apply

If you have the skills and passion for precision manufacturing, please apply now.

Click 'Apply Now' to submit your resume and a cover letter.

All applicants must pass a skills test as part of the recruitment process.

Kuipers Engineering Pty Ltd is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse workforce.