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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead systems architecture and product development in advanced photonics and hardware.
- Company: High-growth tech company focused on innovation in photonics and precision hardware.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, annual bonus, share options, private medical insurance, and flexible working.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by driving cutting-edge technology from R&D to market-ready products.
- Qualifications: Experience in systems engineering and leadership in complex hardware environments.
- Other info: Join a diverse team with excellent career growth and professional development opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 84000 £ per year.
Are you a senior Systems Engineering leader ready to take ownership of complex hardware platforms? Do you enjoy defining system architecture across optics, motion control and embedded systems? Are you motivated by scaling advanced technology from R&D into manufacturable, market-ready products? This could be your next step.
Our client is a high-growth, innovation-driven technology company developing advanced photonics and precision hardware platforms for global markets. As part of their continued expansion, they are seeking a Head of Systems Engineering to lead systems architecture, integration and product development across a complex, multidisciplinary environment. This is a senior leadership role focused on systems engineering strategy, technical governance, NPI and team development within a cutting-edge hardware setting.
Why This Role is Great
This opportunity offers genuine ownership across the full systems engineering lifecycle. You will:
- Lead end-to-end systems architecture across photonics, laser systems, optical subsystems, precision motion control and embedded control systems.
- Translate customer requirements into structured system-level specifications and verification plans.
- Drive system integration across mechanical, optical, electrical and firmware engineering teams.
- Establish robust systems engineering frameworks including design reviews, V&V processes, configuration control and change management.
- Oversee new product introduction, ensuring repeatable builds, clear test protocols and scalable manufacturing processes.
- Improve product robustness, reliability and manufacturability through data-led design decisions.
- Develop and mentor a high-performing Systems Engineering team, setting technical standards and operating rhythms.
- Contribute to technology roadmaps, IP strategy and long-term platform evolution.
- Lead on compliance, safety and quality frameworks relevant to advanced laser and hardware systems.
- Collaborate with customers, suppliers and internal stakeholders to accelerate adoption and ensure technical excellence.
You will balance strategic leadership with hands-on technical oversight in a fast-moving, product-focused environment.
About You
You are an experienced Head of Systems Engineering, Systems Engineering Manager or Technical Director with deep expertise in complex hardware systems. You are likely to bring:
- Significant experience in photonics, laser systems, precision optics, motion systems or advanced instrumentation.
- Strong background in systems architecture, integration and verification of multidisciplinary hardware platforms.
- Experience delivering products from early-stage development through NPI and into production.
- Leadership capability with a track record of building and developing engineering teams.
- Confidence engaging with senior stakeholders, customers and cross-functional teams.
- A structured, methodical approach to risk management, validation and lifecycle management.
- An advanced qualification in Physics, Optical Engineering or a related discipline would be beneficial. However, strong commercial systems engineering experience in complex hardware environments is equally valued.
If you have transferable experience in adjacent high-precision or regulated engineering sectors, our client would be keen to hear from you.
Package and Benefits
£70,000 to £75,000 basic salary depending on experience. Annual bonus scheme. Share option scheme. Private Medical Insurance. Group Income Protection and Life Assurance. Enhanced family leave. Matched pension contributions up to 5 percent. 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays. Hybrid and flexible working arrangements. Professional development and further study support. Wellbeing initiatives and volunteering opportunities.
Diversity and Inclusion
Our client and our agency are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion. Applications are welcomed from candidates of all backgrounds. Reasonable adjustments will be supported throughout the recruitment process.
Interested?
If you are looking for a senior Systems Engineering leadership role where you can influence architecture, drive NPI, scale advanced hardware systems and build high-performing teams, we encourage you to apply. Submit your CV today or contact us for a confidential discussion.
Engineering Manager - Lasers/Optics/Photonics - ID46558 in Oxford employer: Humand Talent
Contact Detail:
Humand Talent Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Engineering Manager - Lasers/Optics/Photonics - ID46558 in Oxford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the photonics and engineering sectors. Attend industry events or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews by brushing up on your technical knowledge and leadership skills. Think about how you can demonstrate your experience in systems architecture and integration. Practice common interview questions and have your success stories ready to share!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for the field! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, let them know what excites you about photonics and advanced hardware systems. Your enthusiasm can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re always looking for talented individuals who can lead and innovate in systems engineering. Let’s make it happen together!
We think you need these skills to ace Engineering Manager - Lasers/Optics/Photonics - ID46558 in Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences that align with the Engineering Manager role. Highlight your expertise in photonics, laser systems, and any leadership experience you've had in similar environments.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Use your cover letter to tell us why you're passionate about systems engineering and how your background makes you a perfect fit for this role. Be sure to mention your experience with NPI and team development!
Showcase Your Achievements: Quantify your successes where possible! Whether it’s improving product reliability or leading a successful project, numbers can really make your application stand out and show us what you can bring to the table.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Humand Talent
✨Know Your Systems Engineering Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of systems architecture, integration, and verification processes. Be ready to discuss specific examples from your past experience that demonstrate your expertise in photonics, laser systems, and precision optics.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare to talk about your experience in building and developing engineering teams. Highlight any successful projects where you led a team through the NPI process or improved product robustness and reliability.
✨Understand the Company’s Vision
Research the company’s technology roadmaps and recent innovations in photonics and hardware platforms. This will help you align your answers with their goals and show that you’re genuinely interested in contributing to their success.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect to face technical questions related to risk management, validation, and lifecycle management. Brush up on relevant frameworks and be ready to explain how you would apply them in a fast-moving, product-focused environment.