Lead Product Engineer

OnTarget Communications; Ballymena; On-site; GBP 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

OnTarget Communications seeks a seasoned Lead Product Engineer in the UK to spearhead the design and development of advanced control systems, based onsite in Toomebridge or Chesterfield. You will guide the full product lifecycle from concept through deployment.

You will mentor engineers and work closely with software, hardware, manufacturing and quality teams to deliver reliable, scalable solutions across the lifecycle. This role is fully onsite.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in machine control system design (PLC, embedded systems or similar).
• Strong knowledge of PLM and engineering processes.
• Demonstrated leadership in engineering environments.
• Excellent problem-solving and communication skills.
• Relevant engineering degree (Mechanical, Electrical, Mechatronics, or related).

Responsibilities

• Lead design and development of machine control systems, ensuring performance and reliability.
• Own all stages of the product lifecycle from concept to deployment.
• Collaborate with software, hardware, manufacturing, and quality teams.
• Define system architectures, requirements, and design standards.
• Drive continuous improvement and innovation in control system technologies.
• Mentor junior engineers and promote technical excellence.

Skills

Machine control system design

Leadership experience

Problem solving

Communication skills

Education

Engineering degree (Mechanical / Electrical / Mechatronics)

Tools

PLM software

Job description

Model: Fully Onsite
Scope: Fully Employed, Full Time
Location: Toomebridge, Northern Ireland or Chesterfield, England

We are seeking an experienced and driven Lead Product Engineer to lead the design and development of advanced control systems. This role is ideal for a hands-on engineering leader with a strong background across the full product lifecycle, from concept through to deployment and continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of machine control systems, ensuring performance, reliability, and scalability
• Own and manage all stages of the product lifecycle, including concept development, design, validation, production, and post-launch support
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including software, hardware, manufacturing, and quality engineering
• Define system architectures, technical requirements, and design standards
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives and innovation in control system technologies
• Mentor and guide junior engineers, fostering a culture of technical excellence

Qualifications

• Proven experience in machine control system design (PLC, embedded systems, or similar)
• Strong knowledge of product lifecycle management (PLM) and engineering processes
• Demonstrated leadership experience in engineering environments
• Excellent problem-solving and communication skills
• Relevant engineering degree (Mechanical, Electrical, Mechatronics, or related field)

Desirable

• Experience with automation systems or industrial machinery
• Familiarity with ISO 9001 processes
• Background in system integration and testing
• Understanding of AC and DC control systems
• Experience in software development processesExposure to manufacturing environments