Hardware Engineering Manager

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

Job summary

A leading company in defence and bespoke electronics manufacturing is seeking an Electronics Engineering Manager to join their leadership team in Southampton. This role involves strategic oversight of facility operations, ensuring high standards of quality and compliance, while also providing an opportunity for career advancement into a managing director position in the coming years. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience, technical expertise, and a passion for mentoring teams.

Qualifications

• 10+ years in electronics or defence manufacturing with senior leadership.
• Deep knowledge of defence contracts and quality control.
• Technical expertise in electronics engineering and product development.

Responsibilities

• Lead facility operations including production, maintenance, and quality assurance.
• Manage complex defence contracts ensuring regulatory compliance.
• Collaborate with engineering teams from design to production.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic Planning

Problem-Solving

Interpersonal Skills

Communication

Education

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

Tools

ISO9001:2015 standards

Job description

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Hardware Engineering Manager, Southampton

Client:

X4 Technology

Location:

Southampton, 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 that can offer progression into a managing director or technical director role in the coming years.

The client is looking for the best person and can accommodate either a high salary or 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 instrumental in strengthening our delivery of 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 discipline (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 tolerance for non-compliance and incidents

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