At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead engineering teams to shape AI-driven workflows and deliver world-class software.
- Company: Join Checkatrade, the UK's top platform for finding tradespeople.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, bonuses, share options, gym membership, and extra holiday leave.
- Other info: Fast-paced culture with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in an innovative environment with ambitious goals.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience and deep technical knowledge in engineering.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
You’ll be the architect of our delivery engine. This isn't about sitting in the code all day; it's about shaping how engineering actually happens in an AI‑first world. You’ll lead the systems, the people, and the workflows that allow us to ship world‑class software at a pace that leaves the competition behind.
What you’ll actually spend your time on:
- Defining the AI‑enabled SDLC: Moving beyond simple "copilots" to integrate agentic workflows, automated reviews, and AI‑driven incident response into our daily DNA.
- Orchestrating the machine: Evolving our "Golden Paths," developer platforms, and CI/CD patterns so that "how work moves" from idea to production is a competitive advantage.
- Leading through leaders: Mentoring 3–5 Engineering Managers to build high‑accountability teams that ship frequently, with fewer surprises and higher quality.
- Setting the technical agenda: Making the high‑stakes calls on architecture, reliability, and security across a significant slice of our estate.
- Driving high‑intensity execution: Removing obstacles with pace and ensuring our ambitious roadmap becomes a reality through clarity and technical judgment.
What you’ll bring:
- Deep technical credibility: You can hold your own with staff engineers on distributed systems, security risks, and performance bottlenecks.
- An AI‑forward mindset: You have a strong POV on how agentic patterns and human‑in‑the‑loop design transform engineering throughput.
- Systems thinking: You focus on the system of work, standardising where it helps and granting autonomy where it matters.
- Proven leadership at scale: You’ve successfully led multiple teams through managers and know how to build a strong leadership bench.
- A hunger for pace: You thrive in high‑intensity environments where expectations are high and the "typical" corporate speed isn’t enough.
Rewards:
- Competitive salary + annual bonus or commission (role dependent)
- Employee Share Program
- Health, well‑being and learning support
- Gym membership, Smart Tech Scheme and Cycle Scheme
- Birthday/Special day leave
- Buy & sell holiday scheme
- 1 week’s paid charity leave and much more!
Interview process:
- Screening call with one of our Talent Acquisition Partners
- 1st stage interview with Senior Leadership – Intro
- 2nd Stage interview with Senior Leadership – Deep technical dive
- 3rd Stage interview with Senior Leadership – Cultural fit
If you require any reasonable adjustments during our interview process, please discuss them with your Talent Acquisition Partner. If this sounds like the place where you can do your best work, we’d love to hear from you, even if you don’t tick every box.
About us:
We’re Checkatrade – the UK’s leading platform for finding a tradesperson. With more than 50,000 trades listed and over 6 million reviews, we help homeowners get jobs done right and help tradespeople grow their business. We’re growing fast, with big plans to become the go‑to brand for home improvements. If you care about great work, take pride in the details, and want to make an impact, you’ll fit right in.
Director of Engineering employer: Checkatrade
At Checkatrade, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration. As the Director of Engineering, you'll not only lead cutting-edge projects in an AI-first environment but also benefit from competitive salaries, comprehensive health support, and unique perks like a buy & sell holiday scheme and paid charity leave. Join us in our mission to revolutionise home improvements while enjoying ample opportunities for personal and professional growth in a fast-paced, supportive setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Engineering
✨Join Local Manufacturing Groups
Getting involved in local manufacturing groups or associations can seriously boost your visibility. These groups often have insider info on job openings and networking events, plus they help you connect with like-minded folks in the industry. Check out what's happening in your area!
✨Show Off Your Skills in Practical Spaces
Consider participating in workshops or open days at manufacturing companies. It's a great way to show off your hands-on skills in a real-world environment and can sometimes lead to job offers right on the spot. Keep an eye on announcements from local manufacturers for these opportunities!
✨Leverage the Power of Internships
While you're looking for full-time positions, don't underestimate the power of internships! Even if you don't see a direct role, securing an internship at a company can open doors to future jobs. Many manufacturing firms prefer to hire from their intern pool, so it's definitely worth considering.
✨Apply Directly Through Company Websites
When you find a role at a company you love, like Checkatrade, apply directly on their website. This way, you’re more likely to be noticed by the hiring team. Plus, showing that you took the time to seek out their application process highlights your genuine interest in the firm!
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Engineering
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In the manufacturing-production sector, it's crucial to highlight your technical skills and experience. Make sure your CV features any relevant qualifications, such as certifications in machinery operation or production management, and don’t forget about any specific systems or software you’re familiar with. This can really set you apart!
Emphasise Teamwork and Communication:Working in manufacturing often means being part of a larger team. Highlight your experience in collaborative projects or environments where communication was key. Maybe you have experience with lean manufacturing principles? Talk about how you worked with your team to improve productivity and maintain quality.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Company:Don’t just recycle an old cover letter! Take the time to tailor your cover letter to Checkatrade specifically. Mention what excites you about their production processes or products, and how your previous experiences can contribute to their goals. We want to see your enthusiasm for the role!
Use Concrete Examples of Your Achievements:When detailing your work experience, include measurable achievements that can demonstrate your impact. Whether it’s improving efficiency by a certain percentage or successfully leading a project, these specifics can make a huge difference. Numbers speak volumes in the manufacturing world!
How to prepare for a job interview at Checkatrade
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Checkatrade, brush up on the specific manufacturing processes relevant to the role. Understanding lean manufacturing principles or quality control techniques could give you a solid edge to discuss how you’d fit into their operations.
✨Technical Questions Are Key
Be prepared for technical questions around machinery, production scheduling, or materials handling. Make sure you can confidently explain how you've dealt with these in past experiences or internships. Knowing industry-specific software could also be a big plus!
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Manufacturing environments often focus on continuous improvement. Be ready to discuss specific instances where you’ve solved a production issue or implemented a process improvement. It’s all about demonstrating your analytical thinking and hands-on approach.
✨Align Your Values with Quality and Safety
In a full-time role, companies like Checkatrade value commitment to quality and safety. Be prepared to discuss how you prioritise these factors in your work. It’s about showing that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about contributing positively to their production environment.
