Hardware Engineering Manager

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

Job summary

A leading company in defence and electronics manufacturing is seeking an Electronics Engineering Manager in Preston. This role involves leading facility operations, managing defence contracts, and driving strategic initiatives. Ideal candidates will have over 10 years of experience in the industry and a strong educational background.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in electronics or defence manufacturing.
• Deep knowledge of defence customer contracts, regulatory frameworks, and ISO9001:2015 standards.
• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead all aspects of facility operations including production, maintenance, and quality assurance.
• Manage and deliver on complex defence contracts with full regulatory compliance.
• Oversee budgeting, financial performance, and resource allocation.

Skills

Leadership

Problem-Solving

Strategic Planning

Interpersonal Skills

Education

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

Job description

Social network you want to login/join with:

Hardware Engineering Manager, Preston, Lancashire

Client: X4 Technology

Location: Preston, Lancashire, United Kingdom

Job Category: Other

EU work permit required: Yes

Job Views:

4

Posted:

04.06.2025

Expiry Date:

19.07.2025

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 progression into a managing director or technical director role in the coming years.

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 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 on 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 track 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 product development
• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills to inspire and lead teams
• Strategic mindset with problem-solving and decision-making skills
• 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 navigate challenges
• Collaborative approach valuing 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 tolerance for non-compliance and incidents

The client is open to either an Ltd. contractor arrangement with potential transition to permanent, or a direct 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.