Hardware Engineering Manager in Edinburgh

Build the hardware that maps the world. We’re looking for an experienced Engineering Manager (Hardware) to take ownership of our client’s hardware development and manufacturing portfolio — from concept through deployment and long-term service. Working closely with the CTO, you’ll lead the delivery of the core hardware behind current and next-generation camera and LiDAR mobile mapping systems, used for street-level imaging and geospatial intelligence. This is a hands-on leadership role for someone who thrives on operational excellence, loves untangling complex hardware challenges, and takes pride in delivering reliable, high-quality products at scale.

Why this role matters

Our client’s hardware sits at the heart of everything they do — blending advanced sensor technology, real-time data processing, and geospatial software. As Engineering Manager, you’ll ensure nothing slips through the cracks: tasks are tracked, risks are managed early, suppliers deliver on quality and cost, and products are engineered for their full lifecycle — including servicing and in-field support. You’ll also play a key role in scaling their manufacturing capability to support a fast-growing business.

What you’ll be responsible for

• Technical Leadership
  • Lead the development of industry-leading camera and sensor hardware for mobile mapping.
  • Help define and execute the hardware technology roadmap, balancing innovation, cost, quality, and delivery predictability.
  • Partner with Principal Engineers and Product Owners to ensure high standards of system architecture and build quality.
  • Evaluate emerging sensors, AI technologies, and tools in the machine vision and robotics space.
• Delivery, Risk & Cost Control
  • Own hardware project delivery commitments — on time, on budget, and fully accountable.
  • Establish clear definitions of done, realistic estimates, and transparent progress reporting.
  • Drive root cause analysis for hardware and deployment issues, implementing long-term fixes.
  • Manage suppliers, manufacturing partners, and component costs with relentless scrutiny.
  • Proactively identify and mitigate technical, schedule, and supply-chain risks.
  • Work closely with product, firmware, systems, and software teams to manage dependencies.
  • Communicate clearly with senior leadership on progress, risks, and decisions.
• People & Culture
  • Foster a high-performing, inclusive, and accountable engineering culture.
  • Help build and grow a hardware team capable of supporting scaled manufacturing and servicing.
  • Encourage collaboration, rapid iteration, and continuous improvement.

What we’re looking for

Essential

• Technical degree (e.g. Electronic Engineering, Computer Science) or equivalent hands-on experience.
• Experience in technical operations, hardware delivery, or project coordination role.
• Strong understanding of hardware development lifecycles and issue tracking.
• Experience implementing robust processes for task management, risk control, and delivery.
• Supplier management experience, including cost and quality analysis.

Highly desirable

• Experience with imaging systems (e.g. rolling/global shutters, FPGA, SoM, sensor interfaces).
• Experience working across hardware–software development cycles.
• Familiarity with budgeting and financial planning in a technology environment.

Why join?

• Lead hardware development for cutting-edge mapping and imaging technology.
• Direct mentorship from an experienced CTO.
• Salary circa £65,000 plus Pension, Private Healthcare and more.
• Real ownership, real impact, and real accountability.
• Opportunity to shape and scale hardware manufacturing in a growing business.
• Work at the intersection of hardware, AI, robotics, and geospatial tech.

Bright Purple is an equal opportunities employer. We are proud to work with clients who share the same values of equality and diversity in our industry.