Programme Engineering Manager

Defence iQ; Glenrothes; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading defence and aerospace organization is seeking a Programme Engineering Manager to lead engineering execution within their Power business. The role involves managing multidisciplinary teams to deliver complex development programmes on schedule and within budget. Candidates should have a proven track record in electronic product development and strong leadership skills.

Qualifications

• Proven track record leading electronic product development in defence environments.
• Strong interpersonal skills to engage senior stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Lead planning and scheduling of engineering work packages.
• Provide updates to programme leadership and stakeholders.
• Coach and mentor engineering staff.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Problem Solving

Tools

Microsoft Project

Job description

Exciting Opportunity with a Leading Defence and Aerospace Organisation

My client is a leading name in the defence and aerospace sector, renowned for innovation, engineering excellence, and a commitment to advancing national security technologies. They offer a collaborative environment where employees are empowered to grow professionally while contributing to impactful, mission-critical programmes.

This is an opportunity to join a forward-thinking team that plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of defence and security, all while working on cutting-edge technologies that make the world safer and more connected.

Client Capabilities Include

• Manufacturing of advanced Control Actuation Systems, Guidance Electronic Units, and bespoke Power Products for major missile programmes in the UK and internationally.
• Development and provision of GPS Anti-Jamming solutions across land, sea, and air platforms.
• Operation of a dedicated, high-volume, space-grade manufacturing facility supported by a highly skilled engineering workforce.

The Role: Programme Engineering Manager

My client is seeking a hands-on, experienced Programme Engineering Manager to lead engineering execution within their Power business, which has a strong track record in delivering tailored military power supply solutions. The successful candidate will be responsible for driving engineering efforts on a complex development programme—managing multidisciplinary teams to deliver on schedule, within budget, and to the highest quality standards.

This role is technical in nature, acting as a bridge between the Engineering team and the wider Programme organisation, with accountability for execution and delivery.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the planning and scheduling of engineering work packages; define, challenge, and validate plans using Microsoft Project.
• Apply visual management techniques to prioritise and drive programme execution at both strategic and task levels.
• Provide regular updates and progress reports to programme leadership and senior stakeholders.
• Act as a key support figure for engineers, facilitating cross-functional collaboration and issue resolution.
• Maintain technical quality by working closely with the Programme Design Authority and Chief Engineer.
• Own risk and change management processes for all engineering deliverables.
• Coach and mentor engineering staff, promoting technical excellence and leadership development.

Required Experience & Skills

• Proven track record leading electronic product development, qualification, and certification within high-integrity or defence environments.
• Experience in transitioning products to manufacture and supporting production activities.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to influence and engage senior stakeholders.
• Effective leadership within matrix organisations, with a structured and disciplined approach to problem solving.
• Independent, resilient, and highly results-oriented.

About The Client's Organisation

This opportunity sits within a UK-based division of a global technology leader, supporting aerospace, defence, and advanced manufacturing. The broader organisation employs over 180,000 people worldwide and significantly contributes to regional and national economies through job creation, innovation, and investment.

In the UK alone, the company supports over 35,000 jobs across multiple sites and works with more than 4,000 suppliers, contributing over £2.7 billion annually to the economy.