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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead engineering activities across design, manufacturing, and installation for defence programmes.
- Company: Established engineering organisation in the defence sector with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Influential leadership role, exposure to complex systems, and strong investment in your career.
- Why this job: Shape engineering strategy and make a real impact on mission-critical projects.
- Qualifications: Degree in Engineering, strong mechanical background, and leadership skills required.
- Other info: Opportunity for long-term career growth in a stable programme environment.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 £ per year.
Location: UK
Sector: Defence / Marine Engineering
Employment Type: Full-time
Travel: Occasional UK & international travel
The Opportunity
We are working on behalf of a well-established engineering organisation operating in the defence sector to appoint a Head of Engineering for a major, long-term, safety-critical programme. This is a senior leadership role with responsibility for engineering delivery across the full product lifecycle, from concept and design through manufacture, test, installation, commissioning and in-service support. The successful candidate will act as the senior technical authority for the programme, providing leadership, governance and strategic direction across multiple engineering disciplines. The role offers the opportunity to work on complex, highly regulated systems where engineering excellence, risk management and quality are critical to success.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead all engineering activities across design, manufacturing, assembly, test, installation and commissioning
- Act as the senior engineering authority and primary technical interface for customers and internal stakeholders
- Provide strategic technical leadership across complex mechanical systems and integrated platforms
- Manage engineering risk, ensuring robust governance and sign-off through gated design processes
- Drive right-first-time delivery, continuous improvement and operational excellence
- Develop and execute engineering strategies aligned to programme and business objectives
- Oversee delivery of technical data packs, documentation and compliance artefacts
- Lead, coach and develop high-performing engineering teams
- Support senior leadership decision-making with clear, data-driven technical insight
Candidate Profile
- Degree-qualified in Engineering (Chartered status desirable)
- Strong background in mechanical engineering, ideally involving complex rotating or drive systems
- Experience delivering engineering solutions within regulated, safety-critical environments
- Deep understanding of materials, gear systems, bearings, shafts, lubrication and associated standards
- Proven experience managing engineering risk and formal design reviews
- Strong leadership and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence at all levels
- Commercially aware, with the ability to balance technical, schedule and cost considerations
- Experience of continuous improvement, lean or structured problem-solving methodologies
Why Apply?
- Senior, influential engineering leadership role
- Long-term, high-profile defence programme
- Opportunity to shape engineering strategy and delivery
- Exposure to complex, mission-critical systems
- Stable programme environment with strong investment
Security Requirements
Due to the nature of the work, this position is subject to security clearance and export control requirements. Applicants must have the right to work in the UK and be eligible to obtain the required clearance.
Head of Engineering - Defence Programmes in Huddersfield employer: Morson Edge
Contact Detail:
Morson Edge Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Engineering - Defence Programmes in Huddersfield
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the defence sector and let them know you're on the hunt for a Head of Engineering role. Personal recommendations can make all the difference, so don’t be shy about asking for introductions.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews by brushing up on your technical knowledge and leadership skills. Be ready to discuss how you've managed engineering risks and delivered complex projects in regulated environments. We want you to shine!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your experience with safety-critical systems during interviews. Talk about specific challenges you've faced and how you overcame them. This will demonstrate your capability to lead in high-stakes situations, which is crucial for this role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we’re always looking for talented individuals who can contribute to our mission in the defence sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Engineering - Defence Programmes in Huddersfield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Head of Engineering role. Highlight your experience in mechanical engineering and any leadership roles you've held. We want to see how your background aligns with the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this senior leadership role. Share specific examples of how you've led engineering teams and managed complex projects, especially in regulated environments.
Showcase Your Technical Expertise: Don’t forget to emphasise your technical skills and knowledge in areas like gear systems and risk management. We’re looking for someone who can provide strategic direction, so make sure to highlight relevant achievements that demonstrate your expertise.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates regarding your application status.
How to prepare for a job interview at Morson Edge
✨Know Your Engineering Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your technical knowledge, especially around mechanical systems and safety-critical environments. Be ready to discuss your experience with complex rotating or drive systems, as well as how you've managed engineering risks in the past.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
This role is all about leading teams and influencing stakeholders. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led engineering teams, driven continuous improvement, and made strategic decisions that align with business objectives. Highlight your ability to coach and develop others.
✨Understand the Company and Its Challenges
Do your homework on the organisation and the specific defence programmes they work on. Familiarise yourself with their projects, challenges, and the regulatory environment. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and decision-making abilities. Think of scenarios where you've had to manage risks or navigate complex engineering challenges. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses effectively.
