Engineering Prototype Lab Manager

Engineering Prototype Lab Manager

Full-Time 40500 - 49500 £ / year (est.) On-site
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead a prototype engineering lab, manage projects, and oversee technical teams.
  • Company: Join a dynamic engineering firm focused on innovation and quality.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, hands-on experience, and leadership opportunities.
  • Other info: Exciting chance to grow in a specialist engineering environment.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact by bringing cutting-edge products from concept to reality.
  • Qualifications: Experience in engineering workshops and strong team management skills.

The predicted salary is between 40500 - 49500 £ per year.

An opportunity for an experienced engineering professional to take responsibility for a prototype engineering laboratory and workshop. This is a varied, hands-on management role combining technical oversight, team leadership and the coordination of prototype development. You will oversee the day-to-day running of the facility, manage resources and suppliers, and ensure prototype builds are delivered safely, efficiently and to the required quality standards.

Key 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 managing priorities.
  • Plan and coordinate prototype builds, including small production batches, ensuring projects meet agreed timescales.
  • Oversee the manufacture and assembly of prototype equipment, cable assemblies, wiring looms and electro-mechanical components.
  • Interpret engineering drawings, electrical schematics and build documentation.
  • Manage procurement of components, materials, tooling and specialist equipment.
  • Maintain prototype bills of materials, monitor component availability and coordinate outsourced manufacturing.
  • Maintain workshop equipment, tools, test facilities, stock levels and build records.
  • Work closely with engineering, manufacturing, supply chain teams and external suppliers.
  • Ensure appropriate quality standards, risk assessments, health and safety procedures and configuration records are maintained.
  • Support the transition of completed prototypes into manufacturing.

Key Skills & Experience

  • Experience managing or working within an engineering workshop, prototype laboratory, R&D or product development 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 skills and the ability to work across different engineering functions.
  • Relevant engineering qualification, apprenticeship or equivalent practical experience.

Desirable Experience

  • Prototype development and new product introduction.
  • Experience within marine, defence, robotics, instrumentation or other complex engineering environments.
  • Knowledge of quality systems, document control and configuration management.
  • Experience supporting products through development and into manufacture.

What's on Offer

The opportunity to take ownership of a specialist engineering facility, lead a technical team and play an important part in bringing new engineering products from prototype development through to manufacture.

Engineering Prototype Lab Manager employer: DCS Recruitment

As a leading firm in the legal sector, our client offers an exceptional work environment for Commercial Litigation Barristers, characterised by a commitment to high standards of quality and client care. Employees benefit from a culture that values diversity and inclusivity, alongside opportunities for professional growth through collaboration with experienced employment law advisors and senior leadership. Located in a vibrant area, the firm provides a supportive atmosphere where hard work and advocacy skills are recognised and rewarded.

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Contact Details:

DCS Recruitment Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Engineering Prototype Lab Manager

✨Join Engineering Meetups!

Get yourself along to local engineering meetups or tech conferences. These are great places to connect with like-minded folks and industry leaders who might just have a lead on that full-time Engineering Prototype Lab Manager role you’re after at DCS Recruitment.

✨Show Off Your Projects!

Don’t be shy about showcasing your engineering projects. Whether it’s a funky app, a mechanical design, or a complex algorithm, having a solid portfolio on platforms like GitHub can really make you stand out. Plus, it gives potential employers at DCS Recruitment a taste of what you can bring to the table!

✨Engage with Online Communities

Dive into engineering forums and online communities, like Reddit or specific engineering Discord channels. Sharing your insights, asking questions, and being active can help you build connections that might lead to job opportunities at DCS Recruitment.

✨Apply Through Company Websites

When you spot a role like Engineering Prototype Lab Manager at DCS Recruitment, apply directly through their website. Often, this can show your genuine interest in the company and you might just get noticed quicker than via typical job boards.

We think you need these skills to ace Engineering Prototype Lab Manager

Team Leadership
Technical Oversight
Prototype Development
Project Coordination
Electrical Wiring
Soldering
Cable Assembly

Some tips for your application 🫡

Showcase Your Technical Expertise:When applying for an engineering role like Engineering Prototype Lab Manager, it’s essential to highlight your technical skills. Include any relevant software or tools you're proficient in on your CV—think CAD software, simulation tools, or programming languages. Don't skimp on any engineering projects you've worked on that demonstrate your ability to solve complex problems.

Focus on Results and Impact:In the engineering world, we love numbers and real-world impact. Quantify your achievements wherever possible—like reducing costs by a certain percentage, improving efficiency, or successfully completing a project ahead of schedule. This gives your future employers at DCS Recruitment a clear picture of the value you can bring.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to express your passion for engineering and explain why you’re drawn to DCS Recruitment specifically. Share what aspects of their work excite you and how your values align with theirs. This is your chance to show a bit of personality while keeping it professional!

Include Relevant Certifications:If you have any engineering certifications, especially ones that are recognised in your field, make sure to feature them prominently on your CV. They demonstrate not just your knowledge, but also your commitment to professional development, which is something we at StudySmarter value highly.

How to prepare for a job interview at DCS Recruitment

✨Brush Up on Core Engineering Principles

Before heading into the interview with DCS Recruitment, make sure you're solid on the fundamental engineering principles relevant to the role. Be ready to discuss concepts such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, or structural analysis, depending on the specifics mentioned in the job description. Don’t skip any hands-on projects or coursework; these can be excellent talking points!

✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills

Expect technical questions or case studies during your interview—after all, engineering is all about solving problems! Prepare a few examples of how you've tackled engineering challenges in the past, whether at university or in any practical experience. Practising with mock technical interviews can really help you articulate your thought process and solutions.

✨Relate Your Experience to the Role

In a full-time role, employers like DCS Recruitment want to see that you can adapt and grow within their team. Be ready to discuss how your previous internships, projects, or studies relate directly to the work you'll be doing. Highlight specific experiences that showcase your collaborative skills and how you've successfully worked within a team environment.

✨Know Your Tools and Software

Most engineering roles require familiarity with specific tools and software. Prepare to talk about your proficiency with programmes like AutoCAD, MATLAB, or SolidWorks if they’re relevant to the role. Even better, have examples of projects where you’ve used these tools, as it'll demonstrate your hands-on experience and readiness for the job.