Prototype Lab Manager: Engineering & Production Lead

DCS Recruitment; England; Remote; GBP 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

DCS Recruitment seeks an experienced Engineering Prototype Manager to lead a dedicated prototype laboratory and workshop in the UK. The role combines technical oversight with hands-on management of day-to-day operations, resources and supplier coordination to deliver prototype builds safely and to required quality.

You will oversee electrical wiring, assembly, testing and documentation, manage a technical team and apprentices, and liaise with engineering, manufacturing and supply chain functions

Qualifications

• Experience managing or working in an engineering workshop, prototype lab or R&D environment.
• Practical experience of electrical wiring, soldering, cable assembly or electro-mechanical integration.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings, wiring diagrams and technical documentation.
• Experience coordinating technical teams, resources, suppliers and procurement.
• Strong planning, organisational and problem-solving skills.
• Good communication across engineering functions.

Responsibilities

• Manage daily operation, safety and organisation of the engineering laboratory and workshop.
• Lead, support and develop technical staff and apprentices, allocating work and priorities.
• Plan and coordinate prototype builds, including small production runs, meeting agreed timescales.
• Oversee manufacture and assembly of prototype equipment and components.
• Interpret drawings, schematics and build documentation.
• Procure components, materials, tooling and specialist equipment.
• Maintain prototype bills of materials and coordinate outsourced manufacturing.
• Maintain workshop equipment, tools, test facilities, stock levels and build records.
• Collaborate with engineering, manufacturing, supply chain and external suppliers.
• Ensure quality standards, risk assessments and health and safety procedures are followed.
• Support the transition of completed prototypes into manufacturing.

Skills

Workshop experience

Electrical wiring

Soldering

Interpreting drawings

Team leadership

Planning & organising

Communication

Apprenticeship/engineering qual

Education

Engineering qualification or apprenticeship

Job description

DCS Recruitment seeks an experienced Engineering Prototype Manager to lead a dedicated prototype laboratory and workshop in the UK. The role combines technical oversight with hands-on management of day-to-day operations, resources and supplier coordination to deliver prototype builds safely and to required quality.

You will oversee electrical wiring, assembly, testing and documentation, manage a technical team and apprentices, and liaise with engineering, manufacturing and supply chain functions