Company Profile
Location: Waterbeach, UK
Department: R&D – Production Engineering
Reports to: Production Engineering Manager
Type: Full-time, Permanent
Thermoteknix Systems Ltd, founded in 1982 and based in Cambridge, is a world leader in thermal imaging, night vision, and augmented reality systems. Our award-winning technologies are trusted by defence, security, and industrial customers in over 70 countries. With in‑house R&D, cutting‑edge innovation, and a global reputation for quality, we design and manufacture solutions that perform in the toughest environments.
About You
Thermoteknix is establishing a new Production Engineering team within R&D to transition products from development into robust, scalable manufacturing.
The Electronics Production Engineer will cover all electronic and electrical aspects to facilitate the delivery of a robust, repeatable and compliant assembly, test, and repair capability.
This will include test provision, assembly, calibration, repair, documentation and deliver continuous improvement of manufacturing processes.
Key Responsibilities
New Product Introduction & Transfer to Manufacturing
- Support the structured transfer of products from R&D into engineering and manufacturing.
- As part of ERP, define, maintain and control BOM’s for new products introduced.
- Work with other team members to develop a test strategy for each product and analyse test coverage of designs and select appropriate test approaches.
- Ensure electronic designs are suitable for production through DFM/DFT reviews.
- Lead electronics-focused workstreams within NPI projects, ensuring readiness for build, test, and scale.
- Work closely with design engineers to finalise manufacturable, testable electronic solutions.
Production Test & Engineering Development
- Define and implement production test strategies, including functional test, calibration, and verification.
- Design and develop electronic test fixtures, jigs, and automated test equipment (ATE) to deliver robust end‑of‑line testing for new products.
- Develop and maintain test software/scripts where appropriate (in collaboration with embedded/software teams).
Electronics Manufacturing Process Development
- Support development and optimisation of processes for:
- PCB assembly and integration
- Cable harnessing and electrical assembly
- Calibration and configuration
- System‑level electronic integration
- Work with manufacturing partners and suppliers to ensure consistent build quality and yield.
- Resolve manufacturing queries related to PCBs and electronics assemblies.
- Specify production requirements for electronic components, programming, and test access.
Continuous Improvement & Manufacturing Optimisation
- Drive improvements in manufacturing efficiency, quality, and repeatability for products already in production.
- Identify opportunities to reduce build time, improve test coverage, and increase production yield.
- Support cost‑reduction initiatives through design refinement and improved electronics manufacturing methods.
- Implement engineering changes to enhance manufacturability, reliability, and serviceability.
Production Support & Issue Resolution
- Provide hands‑on engineering support when electronic issues arise in production or test.
- Troubleshoot PCB, electrical, or system‑level faults quickly and effectively.
- Perform root cause analysis and corrective actions for electronic failures.
- Support non‑conformance investigations, concessions, and corrective/preventive actions (CAPA).
- Apply structured problem‑solving and quality methodologies (e.g., 8D, FMEA, SPC) as appropriate.
Documentation & Engineering Control
- Produce and maintain clear electronics production documentation, including:
- Build and test procedures
- Calibration and programming instructions
- Test fixture documentation
- Electrical assembly work instructions
- Support configuration control and engineering change processes (ECN).
Cross‑Functional Collaboration
- Act as the electronics interface between R&D, Production, Quality, Supply Chain, and Operations.
- Support supplier engagement for PCBs, electronic components, and manufacturing/test improvements.
- Contribute to defining standards, tools, and best practices for the new Production Engineering function.
Required Skills & Experience
- Degree (or equivalent experience) in Electrical/Electronic Engineering or related discipline.
- Experience in electronics production engineering, manufacturing engineering, or electronics design support.
- Strong understanding of PCB assembly, electronic integration, and production test methods.
- Familiarity with relevant standards and concepts such as ISO9001/AS9100, IPC610, ESD.
- Experience developing test fixtures, electronic jigs, or production verification processes.
- Ability to troubleshoot electronic circuits, assemblies, and system‑level faults.
- Strong documentation skills and attention to detail.
- Comfortable working across R&D and manufacturing environments.
Desirable Skills & Experience
- Experience supporting NPI from prototype builds through to volume manufacture.
- Knowledge of Design for Test (DFT), Design for Manufacture (DFM), and lean manufacturing principles.
- Familiarity with calibration systems and electronic measurement equipment.
- Experience with programming tools, scripting, or automation for production test.
- Understanding of engineering change control and quality standards (ISO9001).
- Exposure to thermal imaging, embedded electronics, or ruggedised electronic product development.
Personal Attributes
- Practical, hands‑on, and proactive approach to solving problems.
- Strong communicator able to work effectively with engineers and production teams.
- Analytical mindset with strong root cause and corrective action skills.
- Motivated to improve manufacturing processes and product quality.
- Adaptable and excited to help shape a new Production Engineering team.
Why us?
- Opportunity to join and shape a newly formed Production Engineering team.
- A key role bridging cutting‑edge R&D and real‑world manufacturing.
- Collaborative environment working on advanced thermal imaging technologies.
- Career development and growth within a high‑technology engineering organisation.
- Training and career development opportunities.
- Competitive salary and benefits package.