Hardware Engineering Manager

JR United Kingdom; Milton Keynes; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in the defence manufacturing sector is seeking an Electronics Engineering Manager to oversee operations and drive strategic initiatives. The role offers substantial growth potential, including a pathway to Managing Director, and requires a strong leader with a technical background in electronics and a proven track record in operational excellence.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in electronics or defence manufacturing.
• Deep knowledge of defence customer contracts and regulatory frameworks.
• Technical expertise in Electronics engineering and full-cycle product development.

Responsibilities

• Lead facility operations including production, maintenance, and quality assurance.
• Drive strategic planning aligned with company goals.
• Manage complex defence contracts with regulatory compliance.

Skills

Leadership

Quality Control

Operational Excellence

Strategic Planning

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Engineering or Business

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, serve as 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 role offers the potential for progression into a Managing Director or Technical Director position in the future.

The client is looking for the best candidate and can offer either a high salary or a 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. Working collaboratively with cross-functional teams, including engineering, finance, and senior leadership, you’ll champion strategic initiatives, enhance operational processes, and ensure our design facility operates to the highest industry standards.

Your leadership will be crucial in delivering high-quality, mission-critical products, ensuring sustainable growth, and elevating 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 key 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
• Deep knowledge of defence customer contracts, regulatory frameworks, and ISO9001:2015 standards
• Technical expertise in Electronics engineering, quality control, and full-cycle product development
• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills, with the ability to inspire and lead teams
• Strategic mindset with hands-on problem-solving skills
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering, Business, or related field (preferred)

Human Qualities That Matter

• Authentic, empathetic leadership rooted in transparency and integrity
• Visionary thinking with resilience to navigate challenges
• Collaborative mindset committed to diversity and inclusion
• Passion for mentoring and developing teams
• Effective communication with emotional intelligence
• Production Efficiency: 95%+ target
• Cost Savings: 10% annual reduction in operational costs
• Safety: Zero incidents or non-compliance

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