Prototype Lab Manager - Engineering Production Lead

DCS Recruitment; Basingstoke and Deane; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Specialist prototype lab

Job summary

DCS Recruitment is seeking an Engineering Prototype Manager to lead a dedicated prototype laboratory and workshop. The role combines hands-on technical leadership with project planning, supplier coordination and safety management to deliver robust prototype builds.

The successful candidate will oversee daily operations, manage resources and mentor technical staff, ensuring on-time delivery and seamless transition from prototype to production.

Qualifications

• Experience managing an engineering workshop or prototype lab.
• Hands-on experience with wiring, cable assemblies, and electro-mechanical integration.
• Ability to interpret electrical schematics and build documentation.
• Experience coordinating teams, resources and suppliers.
• Strong planning and problem-solving skills.
• Effective communication across engineering functions.
• Relevant engineering qualification or apprenticeship.

Responsibilities

• Manage the daily operation, safety and organisation of the engineering laboratory and workshop.
• Lead, support and develop technical staff and apprentices, allocating work and prioritising.
• Plan and coordinate prototype builds, including small production batches, to meet timescales.
• Oversee manufacture and assembly of prototype equipment and components.
• Interpret engineering drawings and build documentation.
• Manage procurement of components, materials, tooling and equipment.
• Maintain BOMs, monitor component availability and coordinate outsourced manufacturing.
• Maintain workshop equipment, tools, test facilities and stock levels.
• Collaborate across engineering, manufacturing and supply chain teams.
• Ensure quality, risk assessments, health and safety procedures and configuration records.
• Support transition of completed prototypes into manufacturing.

Skills

Engineering workshop management

Electrical wiring & soldering

Prototype development

Project planning & scheduling

Team leadership & mentoring

Reading engineering drawings

Procurement & supplier coordination

Education

Engineering qualification or apprenticeship

Job description

DCS Recruitment is seeking an Engineering Prototype Manager to lead a dedicated prototype laboratory and workshop. The role combines hands-on technical leadership with project planning, supplier coordination and safety management to deliver robust prototype builds.

The successful candidate will oversee daily operations, manage resources and mentor technical staff, ensuring on-time delivery and seamless transition from prototype to production.