Prototype Engineering Lead
Permanent Full-time
The Role
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.
Prototype Engineering Lead 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.
