Hardware Engineering Manager

JR United Kingdom; Crawley; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in defence manufacturing seeks an experienced Electronics Engineering Manager to lead facility operations and oversee high-value client contracts. This role offers significant career progression potential in a dynamic environment, focusing on operational excellence and compliance in high-stakes manufacturing.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in electronics or defence manufacturing with senior leadership experience.
• Knowledge of ISO9001:2015 standards and defence customer contracts.
• Technical expertise in electronics engineering and quality assurance.

Responsibilities

• Lead all aspects of facility operations including production and quality assurance.
• Manage complex defence contracts ensuring full regulatory compliance.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive strategic initiatives.

Skills

Leadership

Interpersonal Skills

Problem-Solving

Strategic Mindset

Communication

Quality Control

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Engineering, Business, or related field

Job description

Join Our Leadership Team – Electronics Engineering Manager (Defence Manufacturing | Bespoke Electronics | High Power Custom Systems)

Full-Time Contract or Permanent | Senior Leadership

Are you a strategic leader with a passion for driving operational excellence in high-stakes environments? We’re seeking an Electronics Engineering Manager who can share technical responsibilities with the Managing Director, be the point of contact for a high-value client, and lead our cutting-edge facility at the forefront of the defence and electronics manufacturing sector. This is a unique opportunity with potential for career progression into a Managing Director or Technical Director role.

The client is looking for the best candidate and can offer either a high salary or a competitive contract day rate.

About the Role

As Electronics Engineering Manager, you'll take full ownership of facility operations — from production and maintenance to quality control and compliance. Collaborating with cross-functional teams including engineering, finance, and senior leadership, you’ll drive strategic initiatives, improve operational processes, and ensure our design facility meets the highest industry standards.

Your leadership will be key in delivering high-quality, mission-critical products, ensuring sustainable growth, and strengthening our brand within the defence and bespoke electronics manufacturing sectors.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead all aspects of facility operations — including production, maintenance, and quality assurance
• Drive strategic planning aligned with company goals and long-term vision
• Manage and deliver complex defence contracts with full regulatory compliance
• Foster a culture of innovation, safety, and continuous improvement
• Collaborate with engineering teams from design to production
• Oversee budgeting, financial performance, and resource allocation
• Build relationships with stakeholders, suppliers, and regulatory bodies
• Ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and operational standards
• Set and monitor KPIs for performance, cost-efficiency, and quality

What You’ll Bring

• 10+ years of experience in electronics or defence manufacturing, with senior leadership experience
• Knowledge of defence customer contracts, regulatory frameworks, and ISO9001:2015 standards
• Technical expertise in electronics engineering, quality control, and product development
• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills
• Strategic mindset with problem-solving abilities
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering, Business, or related field (preferred)

Human Qualities That Matter

• Authentic, empathetic leadership based on transparency and integrity
• Visionary thinking with resilience to challenges
• Collaborative approach supporting diversity and inclusion
• Passion for mentoring and team development
• Effective communication and emotional intelligence
• Production Efficiency: 95%+ target
• Cost Savings: 10% annual operational cost reduction
• Safety: Zero incidents or non-compliance

The client is open to either a contractor arrangement via Ltd. company with potential transition to permanent employment or a direct permanent role at a high salary. The MD plans to retire in the next few years, offering the opportunity to succeed him as MD within 3-5 years.