The Knowledge Transfer Network Limited
Stoke-on-trent, Staffordshire
Smart Manufacturing & AI Systems Engineer - KTP Associate (FTC 24 months) Smart Manufacturing, IT, AI Systems, Engineering Birmingham City University are looking to appoint a high calibre graduate (graduated within the last five years) as a Smart Manufacturing & AI Systems Engineer. This role presents an exciting opportunity to work in collaboration with leading academics at Birmingham City University, to apply knowledge and technical innovation, delivered on site at the company. The Smart Manufacturing & AI Systems Engineer (KTP Associate) should have a minimum 2.1 University qualification in a relevant subject area and graduated within the last five years. This Knowledge Transfer Project (KTP) is co-funded by a grant from Innovate UK and GJB Holdings Limited. It is therefore essential you understand the fundamentals of the KTP collaboration between a UK business and a University works to deliver benefits for each (the company, the university, and the graduate). Personal Training & Development Budget The Smart Manufacturing & AI Systems Engineer (KTP Associate) will have access to a wider range of benefits including a personal development budget of £4,000 to upskill during the project. The successful candidate will be employed by Birmingham City University and seconded to work full-time onsite at GJB Holdings Limited to deliver the 24-month KTP project in partnership Birmingham City University and GJB Holdings Limited. The successful candidate will have full access to Birmingham City University's resources such as offices, labs, and library to complete the KTP project (a project workplan written with KPIs and outcome deliverables has been written). The Smart Manufacturing & AI Systems Engineer (KTP Associate) will be supervised and mentored by both a lead academic and academic supervisor academics from BCU's Department of Computer Science within the School of Architecture, Built Environment, Computing and Engineering (ABCE) as well as a company supervisor located at GJB Holdings Limited whose aim is to assist the Smart Manufacturing & AI Systems Engineer (KTP Associate) to deliver the knowledge into GJB Holdings Limited and successfully deliver the 24-month KTP project on behalf of GJB Holdings Limited and Birmingham City University. Main Duties and Responsibilities The Smart Manufacturing & AI Systems Engineer (KTP Associate) will work on: Data acquisition pipelines and IoT sensor integration Building machine learning models for forecasting, optimisation, and automated decision-making Process mapping, workflow redesign, and lean digital transformation Evaluating and upgrading manufacturing equipment to Industry 4.0 standards Facilitating collaborative workshops with academic and industry partners The role requires the successful candidate to develop: The development of a smart manufacturing ecosystem, integrating sensors, real-time analytics, and automation The design and deployment of an AI-driven optimisation engine for production, quality, and scheduling Creation of a digital twin of factory processes for predictive planning Development of a smart quoting and procurement system linking sales to production Change management activities to embed digital capability within the workforce Training, documentation, and knowledge transfer across operations and IT teams Technical integration with existing ERP, MES, and production systems The Smart Manufacturing & AI Systems Engineer (KTP Associate) will be expected to interact with the senior management, suppliers and clients of the company as well as BCU academics. The Smart Manufacturing & AI Systems Engineer (KTP Associate) must also be adept at applying their knowledge to commercial projects, driving value and making an impact where possible, with an ability to solve problems and create innovative solutions. The Smart Manufacturing & AI Systems Engineer KTP (Associate) must have the following key attributes to ensure the project's successful completion. Skills and Experience The Smart Manufacturing & AI Systems Engineer (KTP Associate) will hold a relevant degree. This might be a first degree (equivalent to a first class or 2:1 honours) in Smart Manufacturing & AI Systems Engineering, a master's degree in a similar discipline is acceptable. A minimum 2:1 or first class undergraduate qualification in AI, Data Science, Computer Science, Manufacturing, Industrial Engineering, Robotics, Mechatronics, Systems Engineering Experience in data analysis, machine learning, or industrial automation. Ability to integrate digital tools with manufacturing processes. Strong programming skills (Python, SQL, or similar). Experience with IoT devices, sensors, or real-time data systems. Excellent project management and organisational skills. Proven ability to work independently and lead technical development. Master's degree or PhD (awarded or near completion) in AI, Digital Manufacturing, Data Science, Industrial Systems Engineering, or related fields. Relevant industry certifications (Lean Six Sigma, AWS/Azure cloud, IoT, etc.). Experience with ERP/MES systems. Understanding of manufacturing operations, workflows, and lean methodologies. Familiarity with cloud computing platforms (Azure, AWS, GCP). Experience in deploying AI models in production environments. On a personal note, the Associate should be enthusiastic, motivated, punctual, conscientious, trustworthy and work well within a team. This project will support GJB's ambition to transform its Stoke-on-Trent facility into a fully connected, intelligent manufacturing operation that leads the UK fenestration industry in innovation, efficiency, and quality. GJB aims to move from traditional manual processes toward a digitally enabled factory where realtime data, automation, and machine intelligence drive decision-making and operational improvements. The recruited Associate will expand their expertise in artificial intelligence, industrial IoT, data engineering, and digital twin development while working hands-on inside a live manufacturing environment. They will help design, build, and embed the technologies and capabilities required to create a scalable Industry 4.0 platform for the business. Key objectives include: Develop a connected smart manufacturing system that links machines, sensors, people, and processes across the factory. Integrate real-time data sources, including IoT sensors, production equipment, quality checks, and scheduling systems. Create AI-driven tools for demand forecasting, optimisation, predictive maintenance, and automated quality assurance Develop a digital twin of the production environment to support simulation, planning, and continuous improvement. Enhance quoting and workflow processes by connecting front-end sales with back-end manufacturing intelligence. About the business GJB Holdings Ltd is a leading UK manufacturer in the windows and doors sector, operating advanced production facilities in Essex and Stoke-on-Trent. With a strong heritage and continued investment in high-quality products, we are now entering a major phase of digital transformation. The business is adopting AI, data-driven decision-making, industrial IoT, and smart-factory technologies to enhance efficiency, quality, and customer service.
Smart Manufacturing & AI Systems Engineer - KTP Associate (FTC 24 months) Smart Manufacturing, IT, AI Systems, Engineering Birmingham City University are looking to appoint a high calibre graduate (graduated within the last five years) as a Smart Manufacturing & AI Systems Engineer. This role presents an exciting opportunity to work in collaboration with leading academics at Birmingham City University, to apply knowledge and technical innovation, delivered on site at the company. The Smart Manufacturing & AI Systems Engineer (KTP Associate) should have a minimum 2.1 University qualification in a relevant subject area and graduated within the last five years. This Knowledge Transfer Project (KTP) is co-funded by a grant from Innovate UK and GJB Holdings Limited. It is therefore essential you understand the fundamentals of the KTP collaboration between a UK business and a University works to deliver benefits for each (the company, the university, and the graduate). Personal Training & Development Budget The Smart Manufacturing & AI Systems Engineer (KTP Associate) will have access to a wider range of benefits including a personal development budget of £4,000 to upskill during the project. The successful candidate will be employed by Birmingham City University and seconded to work full-time onsite at GJB Holdings Limited to deliver the 24-month KTP project in partnership Birmingham City University and GJB Holdings Limited. The successful candidate will have full access to Birmingham City University's resources such as offices, labs, and library to complete the KTP project (a project workplan written with KPIs and outcome deliverables has been written). The Smart Manufacturing & AI Systems Engineer (KTP Associate) will be supervised and mentored by both a lead academic and academic supervisor academics from BCU's Department of Computer Science within the School of Architecture, Built Environment, Computing and Engineering (ABCE) as well as a company supervisor located at GJB Holdings Limited whose aim is to assist the Smart Manufacturing & AI Systems Engineer (KTP Associate) to deliver the knowledge into GJB Holdings Limited and successfully deliver the 24-month KTP project on behalf of GJB Holdings Limited and Birmingham City University. Main Duties and Responsibilities The Smart Manufacturing & AI Systems Engineer (KTP Associate) will work on: Data acquisition pipelines and IoT sensor integration Building machine learning models for forecasting, optimisation, and automated decision-making Process mapping, workflow redesign, and lean digital transformation Evaluating and upgrading manufacturing equipment to Industry 4.0 standards Facilitating collaborative workshops with academic and industry partners The role requires the successful candidate to develop: The development of a smart manufacturing ecosystem, integrating sensors, real-time analytics, and automation The design and deployment of an AI-driven optimisation engine for production, quality, and scheduling Creation of a digital twin of factory processes for predictive planning Development of a smart quoting and procurement system linking sales to production Change management activities to embed digital capability within the workforce Training, documentation, and knowledge transfer across operations and IT teams Technical integration with existing ERP, MES, and production systems The Smart Manufacturing & AI Systems Engineer (KTP Associate) will be expected to interact with the senior management, suppliers and clients of the company as well as BCU academics. The Smart Manufacturing & AI Systems Engineer (KTP Associate) must also be adept at applying their knowledge to commercial projects, driving value and making an impact where possible, with an ability to solve problems and create innovative solutions. The Smart Manufacturing & AI Systems Engineer KTP (Associate) must have the following key attributes to ensure the project's successful completion. Skills and Experience The Smart Manufacturing & AI Systems Engineer (KTP Associate) will hold a relevant degree. This might be a first degree (equivalent to a first class or 2:1 honours) in Smart Manufacturing & AI Systems Engineering, a master's degree in a similar discipline is acceptable. A minimum 2:1 or first class undergraduate qualification in AI, Data Science, Computer Science, Manufacturing, Industrial Engineering, Robotics, Mechatronics, Systems Engineering Experience in data analysis, machine learning, or industrial automation. Ability to integrate digital tools with manufacturing processes. Strong programming skills (Python, SQL, or similar). Experience with IoT devices, sensors, or real-time data systems. Excellent project management and organisational skills. Proven ability to work independently and lead technical development. Master's degree or PhD (awarded or near completion) in AI, Digital Manufacturing, Data Science, Industrial Systems Engineering, or related fields. Relevant industry certifications (Lean Six Sigma, AWS/Azure cloud, IoT, etc.). Experience with ERP/MES systems. Understanding of manufacturing operations, workflows, and lean methodologies. Familiarity with cloud computing platforms (Azure, AWS, GCP). Experience in deploying AI models in production environments. On a personal note, the Associate should be enthusiastic, motivated, punctual, conscientious, trustworthy and work well within a team. This project will support GJB's ambition to transform its Stoke-on-Trent facility into a fully connected, intelligent manufacturing operation that leads the UK fenestration industry in innovation, efficiency, and quality. GJB aims to move from traditional manual processes toward a digitally enabled factory where realtime data, automation, and machine intelligence drive decision-making and operational improvements. The recruited Associate will expand their expertise in artificial intelligence, industrial IoT, data engineering, and digital twin development while working hands-on inside a live manufacturing environment. They will help design, build, and embed the technologies and capabilities required to create a scalable Industry 4.0 platform for the business. Key objectives include: Develop a connected smart manufacturing system that links machines, sensors, people, and processes across the factory. Integrate real-time data sources, including IoT sensors, production equipment, quality checks, and scheduling systems. Create AI-driven tools for demand forecasting, optimisation, predictive maintenance, and automated quality assurance Develop a digital twin of the production environment to support simulation, planning, and continuous improvement. Enhance quoting and workflow processes by connecting front-end sales with back-end manufacturing intelligence. About the business GJB Holdings Ltd is a leading UK manufacturer in the windows and doors sector, operating advanced production facilities in Essex and Stoke-on-Trent. With a strong heritage and continued investment in high-quality products, we are now entering a major phase of digital transformation. The business is adopting AI, data-driven decision-making, industrial IoT, and smart-factory technologies to enhance efficiency, quality, and customer service.
The Knowledge Transfer Network Limited
Harrogate, Yorkshire
Systems Engineering, Smart Systems, Electronical Engineering, Systems Design, Engineering, Mechatronics, Electronics, Sustainability Do you hold a PhD or Master's degree in Electronic and Electrical Engineering, Embedded Systems Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related discipline? Do you have a strong background in Electronics or Renewable Energy systems? Are you interested in leading on a multi-disciplinary project between academia and industry? As an Embedded Systems Engineer, you will be tasked with developing an automated Sash-style timber window, utilising smart control technology to maximise energy efficiency, manage interior climate control, and enhance user accessibility. You will embed core knowledge of advanced motor and power supply systems within Ventrolla and upskill existing workforces in these areas whilst delivering a future-proofed product that will realise the company's strategic vision and establish Ventrolla further in the automated technology market. By working with the academic team at the University of Leeds you will contribute to the production of high-impact journal publications and generate valuable datasets on energy performance, user interaction, and climate-responsive design. You will be given the opportunity to work closely with experts in architecture and electrical engineering, contributing to impactful case studies for national research assessments and helping shape the future of sustainable retrofit innovation. Ventrolla Ltd., based in Harrogate, is a UK market leader in the restoration and replacement of sash and casement timber windows, with over 40 years of experience serving both residential and commercial sectors. Working with Ventrolla and the University of Leeds on this project is a unique opportunity to support the UK's net-zero goals by utilising cutting-edge research capabilities to develop energy-efficient, smart technologies that blend heritage and craftsmanship with modern automation. To develop an automated Sash-style timber window with embedded smart control that prioritises ease of use and interior climate control. This will maximise household energy efficiency and user convenience whilst preserving the traditional look of Sash windows for heritage properties, enhancing climate control, user accessibility and sustainable architecture. About the business Ventrolla Ltd is a UK market leader in the restoration, repair and replacement of timber sash and casement windows. Founded over 40 years ago and based in Harrogate, the company works across both residential and commercial sectors, with a strong reputation in heritage, conservation and period properties. Ventrolla is best known for combining traditional craftsmanship with innovative engineering. Its proprietary repair and draught-proofing systems extend the life of original windows while significantly improving thermal performance, ventilation and comfort. This approach helps clients retain architectural character while meeting modern energy-efficiency expectations. The business operates nationally and works closely with homeowners, developers, local authorities and conservation bodies. Sustainability is central to Ventrolla's proposition, supporting the reuse of existing materials, reducing waste, and contributing to the UK's net-zero ambitions.
Systems Engineering, Smart Systems, Electronical Engineering, Systems Design, Engineering, Mechatronics, Electronics, Sustainability Do you hold a PhD or Master's degree in Electronic and Electrical Engineering, Embedded Systems Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related discipline? Do you have a strong background in Electronics or Renewable Energy systems? Are you interested in leading on a multi-disciplinary project between academia and industry? As an Embedded Systems Engineer, you will be tasked with developing an automated Sash-style timber window, utilising smart control technology to maximise energy efficiency, manage interior climate control, and enhance user accessibility. You will embed core knowledge of advanced motor and power supply systems within Ventrolla and upskill existing workforces in these areas whilst delivering a future-proofed product that will realise the company's strategic vision and establish Ventrolla further in the automated technology market. By working with the academic team at the University of Leeds you will contribute to the production of high-impact journal publications and generate valuable datasets on energy performance, user interaction, and climate-responsive design. You will be given the opportunity to work closely with experts in architecture and electrical engineering, contributing to impactful case studies for national research assessments and helping shape the future of sustainable retrofit innovation. Ventrolla Ltd., based in Harrogate, is a UK market leader in the restoration and replacement of sash and casement timber windows, with over 40 years of experience serving both residential and commercial sectors. Working with Ventrolla and the University of Leeds on this project is a unique opportunity to support the UK's net-zero goals by utilising cutting-edge research capabilities to develop energy-efficient, smart technologies that blend heritage and craftsmanship with modern automation. To develop an automated Sash-style timber window with embedded smart control that prioritises ease of use and interior climate control. This will maximise household energy efficiency and user convenience whilst preserving the traditional look of Sash windows for heritage properties, enhancing climate control, user accessibility and sustainable architecture. About the business Ventrolla Ltd is a UK market leader in the restoration, repair and replacement of timber sash and casement windows. Founded over 40 years ago and based in Harrogate, the company works across both residential and commercial sectors, with a strong reputation in heritage, conservation and period properties. Ventrolla is best known for combining traditional craftsmanship with innovative engineering. Its proprietary repair and draught-proofing systems extend the life of original windows while significantly improving thermal performance, ventilation and comfort. This approach helps clients retain architectural character while meeting modern energy-efficiency expectations. The business operates nationally and works closely with homeowners, developers, local authorities and conservation bodies. Sustainability is central to Ventrolla's proposition, supporting the reuse of existing materials, reducing waste, and contributing to the UK's net-zero ambitions.