Manufacturing Design Engineer

## Career Advancement Opportunity: KTP Associate with the University of Derby and We Seal Ltd This review provides an insightful overview of an exceptional career development opportunity, designed for ambitious graduates seeking to make a tangible impact in the manufacturing sector. The role of KTP Associate, a collaboration between the University of Derby's College of Science and Engineering and the innovative company We Seal Ltd, offers a unique pathway to accelerate your professional growth and contribute to groundbreaking advancements.

The University of Derby is renowned for its commitment to excellence, demonstrated by its Gold award in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) 2023. With a strong emphasis on research, teaching, and sustainable living, the university fosters an inclusive culture that prioritizes staff wellbeing and career enhancement. The College of Science and Engineering, in particular, plays a vital role in shaping the future of STEM, from digitisation to decarbonisation, and actively engages in impactful research and industry collaborations.

We Seal Ltd, a rapidly developing business specializing in bag sealing tapes and innovative sealing machines, offers an end-to-end expertise in design, engineering, installation, and maintenance. This partnership presents a dynamic opportunity to contribute to the company's global expansion by managing and delivering a strategic Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) project.

Key Advantages for Candidates:

• Accelerated Career Development: This is not just a job; it's a structured program designed for rapid professional growth. You'll gain hands-on experience in managing and delivering a high-profile project, a crucial step for any aspiring leader.
• Real-World Impact: You will be at the forefront of developing and launching a new, innovative manufacturing solution that will enable We Seal Ltd to expand into global markets. This role offers the chance to create a significantly improved sustainable sealing solution with a global environmental impact.
• Comprehensive Support System: You will benefit from dedicated mentorship from a We Seal Ltd Supervisor, an Academic Supervisor, and an Academic Lead from the University of Derby. This multi-faceted support ensures you have the guidance and resources needed to succeed.
• Personalized Training and Development: A significant personal training and development budget of £4,500 is allocated to you, alongside access to the same training opportunities and facilities as University staff. This investment in your skills is a testament to the program's commitment to your long-term career path.
• Exposure to Cutting-Edge Technology: The role requires expertise in lean and sustainable design, automation and control (including programming), and the application of IoT in manufacturing. You'll be working with advanced technologies and contributing to smart manufacturing solutions.
• Valuable KTP Experience: As part of the UK's largest graduate recruitment program, KTP, you'll gain invaluable experience in collaborative, high-impact projects that have a proven track record of launching successful careers.
• Rewarding Work Environment: While employed by the University of Derby, your terms and conditions will align with those of We Seal Ltd. You'll benefit from working in a family-owned business with a great culture and opportunities for volunteering and charitable contributions.

Key Considerations for Your Career Path:

• Academic and Practical Blend: This role is ideal for individuals who thrive on bridging the gap between academic theory and practical application. You'll be expected to apply your research and analytical skills to solve real-world engineering challenges.
• Proactive Problem-Solving: The dynamic nature of this role demands pragmatic and creative problem-solving skills. Your ability to think innovatively and respond effectively to challenges will be paramount to your success.
• Technical Expertise: A strong foundation in Mechanical Engineering (or a related discipline), with a minimum of a 2:1 honours degree, is essential. Demonstrable experience with CAD design software (e.g., SolidWorks) and a sound understanding of engineering design techniques are crucial.
• Project Management Acumen: A strong awareness of project management methodologies is required to ensure the successful delivery of the project within defined timelines and objectives.
• Programming Skills: Experience in logic-based programming is a key requirement, highlighting the role's focus on automation and control systems.
• Location and Commute: The role is based at We Seal Ltd's premises in Leeds. Candidates should consider the practicalities of commuting or relocating to this area.
• Right to Work in the UK: Please note that this role is not eligible for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker route. Candidates must possess an alternative right to work in the UK.

This KTP Associate position offers a compelling opportunity for driven individuals to not only develop their technical and leadership capabilities but also to contribute significantly to sustainable innovation and global market expansion. It is a testament to the University of Derby's commitment to fostering impactful partnerships and to We Seal Ltd's forward-thinking approach to business development.