Operational Excellence Engineer

Job Description

About Sunseeker International

Sunseeker was founded on a bold vision: to create a new kind of yacht and redefine what was possible on the water. From our earliest designs in 1967, we’ve pushed boundaries and reshaped the motor yacht industry through innovation, craftsmanship and relentless ambition.

At the heart of every Sunseeker lies a legacy of expert hands and meticulous attention to detail, skills refined and passed down through generations. These are the qualities that set our yachts apart - and the qualities that continue to drive our craft today.

In a world increasingly defined by automation, we remain committed to building hand‑crafted, hand‑finished boats. With over 1,800 talented team members across our busy shipyards - from long‑serving specialists to more than 180 apprentices - our Sunseeker workforce reflects the strength, diversity and pride of our local community. It’s this blend of heritage, skill and passion that makes our shipyards unlike any other place in the world.

Who We Are Seeking

We are looking for a highly analytical, proactive, and solutions‑driven Operational Excellence Engineer to join our team. This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a fast‑paced manufacturing environment and is passionate about improving processes, enhancing quality, and driving efficiency.

You will bring strong experience in Lean, Six Sigma or OPEX methodologies, exceptional problem‑solving skills, and the ability to work collaboratively across multiple departments to influence and embed continuous improvement. Experience within marine, automotive, aerospace, or similar high‑complexity manufacturing environments is highly desirable.

A Day in the Life

In this role, your day will be varied and hands‑on. You will analyse manufacturing workflows, identify bottlenecks, and implement lean strategies that enhance productivity, quality, and cost‑effectiveness.

You’ll work closely with production, engineering, design, and quality teams to troubleshoot issues, conduct root‑cause analysis, support new design integration, and influence how Sunseeker yachts are built.

You will ensure compliance with industry standards, provide tooling and equipment support, and help embed best practices across teams through training, audits, and data‑driven recommendations. Every day, you’ll play a vital part in improving processes, reducing waste, and supporting the business in delivering world‑class yachts.

Key Responsibilities

·        Develop and implement Lean manufacturing strategies to improve productivity, quality, and cost‑efficiency.

·        Analyse workflows, identify bottlenecks, and recommend process optimisations.

·        Optimise material flow, tooling and production techniques for seamless yacht construction.

·        Lead Lean and Six Sigma initiatives, providing training where required.

·        Support NPD programmes to ensure efficient integration of new builds and processes.

·        Ensure compliance with safety regulations, industry standards, and Sunseeker quality guidelines.

·        Conduct root‑cause analysis and implement corrective actions for defects and production issues.

·        Support Quality processes including 8D investigations and continual audit activity.

·        Recommend and implement new manufacturing technologies or automation solutions.

·        Lead cost‑reduction initiatives aligned with OPEX, Kaizen, and Six Sigma practices.

·        Conduct cost‑benefit analysis for process changes and capital projects.

·        Work cross‑functionally with design, engineering, and production teams to integrate improvements.

·        Create, document and standardise procedures and provide training on new techniques.

To Be Considered for This Job You Should

·        Have considerable time served in manufacturing or process engineering, ideally in marine, automotive, aerospace or similar industries.

·        Demonstrate strong expertise in Lean, Six Sigma, and OPEX methodologies.

·        Have experience using CAD/CAM and production planning tools.

·        Possess good knowledge of materials and composite manufacturing techniques.

·        Understand industry standards such as ISO, ABS and Lloyd’s Register.

·        Bring excellent problem‑solving, communication and teamwork skills.

·        (Desirable) Hold a degree in Mechanical, Manufacturing or Industrial Engineering.

·        (Desirable) Have a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or higher certification.

·        (Desirable) Have hands‑on experience with composite materials such as fibreglass or carbon fibre.

Sunseeker employees benefit from

With 7 miles of golden sandy beaches, flanked on both sides by the New Forest National Park and the Jurassic Coast line, working in Poole for a genuinely premiere international brand offers an enviable opportunity to truly live the dream. All the usual benefits you would expect from a sophisticated manufacturing organisation are available, including:

·        A generous company pension scheme - 6% employer contribution

·        Private medical insurance, including baby bonus and Digital GP (after 2 years)

·        Dental insurance (after 2 years)

·        Annual leave increases with continued service

·        Health Assured EAP

·        Trained Mental Health First Aiders

·        Death in service scheme (£)

·        Employee discounts with a wide range of third party businesses (up to 30% off)

Closing Date: 22/03/2026

Location: Multisite

To apply, please send your CV to the email address below or apply via the link.

Kas.Luksa-Hicks@sunseeker.com

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