Manufacturing Specialist I B

We have an exciting opportunity for a Manufacturing Specialist I to join our Production team based at Sekisui Diagnostics, Maidstone, Kent. The successful candidate will be responsible for collecting and analysing production data using established scientific and statistical methods to monitor process performance, identify trends, and highlight potential concerns. The role will involve planning manufacturing activities to ensure the optimal use of resources, supporting continuous improvement initiatives, and working collaboratively across multiple departments.

In addition, the Manufacturing Specialist I will liaise with suppliers, support the procurement of new equipment in line with company procedures, and manage elements of equipment commissioning, validation, change control, and procedural updates. The role will also support manufacturing investigations, quality impact assessments, out-of-specification events, and deviation reporting, while exercising sound Quality and Health, Safety & Environment (HS&E) judgement.

The successful candidate will lead risk assessment and root cause analysis activities and coordinate improvement projects, including facility shutdown and start-up activities, working closely with stakeholders across the business. Key Responsibilities may include Support Quality Assurance (QA) activities, including deviations, CAPAs, change controls and User Requirement Specifications (URS), while maintaining compliance with company and regulatory standards.

Support Health, Safety & Environment (HS&E) systems, including risk assessments, incident reporting and investigations. Troubleshoot manufacturing and process-related issues using scientific and technical expertise to identify root causes, optimise performance and implement effective corrective actions. Collaborate with Engineering and Maintenance teams to resolve equipment failures and improve asset reliability.

Support routine large-scale manufacturing operations, including fermentation, downstream processing and chromatography, as required. Assist Logistics with manufacturing planning activities and inventory management. Support Technical Operations with the transfer of new products from Process Development into Manufacturing. Assist the Validation team with equipment, process and cleaning validation activities.

Support management with Engineering Project Requests and manage capital investment projects in partnership with the Engineering & Maintenance Department and Production Manager. Participate in Factory Acceptance Tests (FATs) and Site Acceptance Tests (SATs) for new equipment. Take ownership of the upkeep and continuous improvement of Production areas and equipment. Support Production and QA teams with the review and closure of batch records.

Act as a training resource, supporting the development and cross-training of colleagues. Identify, recommend and implement continuous improvement opportunities through Kaizen initiatives. We are looking for a motivated and collaborative individual who thrives in a fast-paced manufacturing environment and can effectively manage multiple priorities. The successful candidate will have: Significant experience in large-scale manufacturing processes, including fermentation, downstream processing and/or chromatography.

Experience working within ISO 9001, ISO 45001 and/or ISO 14001 management systems. Strong communication skills, with the ability to build effective working relationships across teams. A proactive approach to continuous improvement, problem solving and personal development. The ability to work independently while contributing positively to team objectives. Experience within a cGMP-regulated manufacturing environment is highly desirable.

A degree in a relevant scientific, engineering or technical discipline would be advantageous.   Who we are: At Sekisui Diagnostics, we help improve patient outcomes by doing what we've always done - focusing on innovating and developing highly accu