Job description

Job Code: 221/001/440
Industry: Vehicle Manufacturing

We are seeking an experienced Production Engineer to lead and optimize manufacturing operations within a specialist vehicle manufacturing environment. The role is responsible for driving continuous improvement initiatives, leading production teams, improving build quality, and ensuring the efficient delivery of high-quality products while maintaining strict safety and operational standards.
This Production Engineer Job in Abu Dhabi is ideal for professionals with strong production leadership experience, a passion for Lean and Continuous Improvement methodologies, and expertise in vehicle manufacturing, fabrication, or heavy engineering environments.

Production Leadership & Optimisation

• Lead, mentor, and manage a team of 50+ production operatives, technicians, and fabricators.
• Own end-to-end production operations from chassis-in to final product sign-off.
• Drive measurable reductions in production cycle time, defect rates, and labour hours through structured Agile and Continuous Improvement programs.
• Develop and maintain production schedules, capacity plans, and resource allocation to achieve on-time delivery targets.
• Implement visual management tools to improve workflow visibility across the shop floor.
• Establish, improve, and develop Method Statements (MoS) to ensure clear and efficient production methods.

• Oversee all aspects of fabrication and manufacturing operations, including structural fabrication, panel fitting, welding, assembly, and finishing activities.
• Establish and enforce Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Method Statements (MoS) to ensure repeatability and consistency.
• Collaborate with design and engineering teams to resolve manufacturing issues and support new product introductions.
• Conduct or oversee pre-delivery inspections to ensure products meet company quality standards.

• Champion a zero-harm safety culture across the production floor and ensure full compliance with UAE health and safety regulations.
• Conduct regular HSE risk assessments and toolbox talks.
• Maintain HSE records, SDS registers, and staff training logs.
• Lead incident investigations, root cause analyses, and corrective action implementation.
• Ensure all employees receive appropriate PPE, inductions, and ongoing safety training.

• Champion an Agile and Continuous Improvement mindset throughout the production team.
• Identify production bottlenecks using value stream mapping, 5S, and root cause analysis tools.
• Lead structured Continuous Improvement projects with measurable outcomes.
• Report project progress and outcomes to senior management with supporting data and ROI analysis.

• Work closely with Supply Chain, Procurement, and Stores teams to ensure material availability.
• Liaise with Sales and Project Management teams to understand customer requirements and delivery commitments.
• Provide regular production performance reporting, highlighting risks, opportunities, and corrective actions.

• Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Minimum 7 years of production or manufacturing engineering experience.
• At least 3 years in a lead or senior role managing teams of six or more employees.
• Demonstrable track record of delivering measurable production improvements.
• Strong practical knowledge of vehicle manufacturing, fabrication, metalwork, bodybuilding, or heavy engineering manufacturing.
• Proven expertise in Agile, Lean, or Continuous Improvement methodologies.
• Solid knowledge of HSE regulations and safety management within a manufacturing environment.
• Strong leadership, coaching, and people management skills.
• Data-driven approach with proficiency in production reporting and KPI management.
• Fluency in English, both written and spoken.
• Experience in emergency vehicles, specialist vehicles, or similar manufacturing environments will be an advantage.
• Lean or Six Sigma certification will be an advantage.
• Familiarity with UAE health and safety regulations and GCC experience will be an advantage.
• Experience with ERP or MRP systems in a production environment will be an advantage.
• Proficiency in Arabic and/or Hindi will be an advantage.