Design Systems Engineering Manager

Trades Workforce Solutions; Abingdon; On-site; GBP 90,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading technology company in Abingdon seeks a Design Systems Engineering Manager to define and implement architectural improvements. The ideal candidate will possess substantial experience in systems architecture within high-tech environments and a relevant degree. This strategic role involves driving technical vision and optimizing performance across platforms, ensuring cross-functional collaboration. A competitive salary of £90,000 to £110,000 is offered alongside benefits like private healthcare and a generous pension scheme.

Benefits

25 days holiday plus bank holidays

Private healthcare and life assurance

4 percent employer pension contribution

Generous EMI share scheme

Qualifications

• Substantial experience in systems architecture or design within complex, high-tech environments.
• Deep understanding of modular system design, interface specification, and performance optimisation.
• Familiarity with scientific instrumentation or precision systems is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Develop and communicate a strategic roadmap for architectural improvements.
• Define the architecture of a highly integrated, modular system.
• Collaborate with product, research, and engineering teams to identify key performance areas.
• Act as a technical bridge between software, hardware, and application development teams.
• Guide decision-making with evidence-based technical leadership.

Skills

Systems architecture

Modular system design

Performance optimisation

Technical communication

Collaborative leadership

Education

Degree in Systems Engineering, Mechanical or Electrical Engineering, Physics

Job description

Are you passionate about complex systems and high-precision engineering?

Looking for a role where you can lead technical strategy and shape the architecture of next-generation technology?

Ready to bring your expertise to a company solving real-world challenges through advanced instrumentation?

If you are a systems thinker with a background in high-tech product development and a passion for architectural leadership, this could be the perfect next step in your career.

Lead System Architecture at the Forefront of Technological Innovation

Our client is a growing and well-funded technology company based in Oxfordshire, known for delivering cutting-edge solutions in high-precision instrumentation. Their work supports some of the most advanced industrial processes in the world, enabling breakthroughs across multiple sectors that rely on complex, data-rich, nanoscale systems.

With a strong foundation in research and a track record of innovation, our client’s technology is trusted by industry leaders around the globe. Now entering an exciting new phase of growth, they are looking for aDesign Systems Engineering Managerto play a pivotal role in defining and implementing the next evolution of their product architecture.

Why This Role is Great

AsDesign Systems Engineering Manager, you will be central to the long-term technical development of a sophisticated instrumentation platform. This is a strategic and hands-on role that will allow you to:

• Drive Technical Vision -Develop and communicate a strategic roadmap for architectural improvements across the system. You will shape how technology evolves to meet current and future performance goals.
• Own System-Level Design -Define the architecture of a highly integrated, modular system. Oversee interface specifications, design principles, and the integration of emerging technologies.
• Optimise Performance Across the Platform -Collaborate with product, research, and engineering teams to identify key performance areas, create improvement plans, and deliver enhancements that meet demanding precision and efficiency targets.
• Enable Cross-Functional Innovation -Act as a technical bridge between software, hardware, and application development teams, ensuring alignment and clarity throughout the development process.
• Make an Impact Where It Matters -Guide decision-making with evidence-based technical leadership. Your work will support critical product improvements and play a vital role in the continued success of the organisation.

About You

This role would suit someone who thrives on designing and optimising complex, integrated systems. You are a confident communicator, a collaborative leader, and a strategic thinker with a strong technical foundation.

You will likely bring:

• A degree in Systems Engineering, Mechanical or Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a related technical discipline
• Substantial experience in systems architecture or design within complex, high-tech environments
• A deep understanding of modular system design, interface specification, and performance optimisation
• Experience guiding long-term technical development through roadmaps and improvement planning
• The ability to lead technical conversations across teams and influence direction through well-structured documentation and insight
• Familiarity with scientific instrumentation or precision systems is desirable, though not essential

If you have worked with technologies such as scanning probe microscopy, laser-based systems, or similar precision instruments, that would be a welcome bonus.

What’s in It for You

• A salary in the region of £90,000 to £110,000 depending on experience
• 25 days holiday plus bank holidays
• Private healthcare and life assurance
• 4 percent employer pension contribution through salary sacrifice
• Participation in a generous EMI share scheme
• The opportunity to work with a world-class team in a role where your contributions will be highly visible and genuinely impactful

This is a rare chance to join a purpose-driven company developing world-leading technology and to grow your career in a stimulating, supportive environment.

A Workplace That Values Everyone

We and our client believe innovation thrives in diverse environments. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds, experiences, and identities. If you are excited about this opportunity but your experience doesn’t align perfectly with every requirement, we still encourage you to apply. Your passion and potential are just as important.

How to Apply

If you're ready to help shape the future of advanced instrumentation and thrive in a role that blends strategic thinking with deep technical engagement, we would love to hear from you.

Submit your CV today or get in touch to learn more in confidence. Let’s explore what’s possible—together.