Socode are partnering with a well-established technology business that designs and manufactures mission-critical communication products used around the world. They’re continuing to invest in new product development and are now looking for a Head of Mechanical Engineering to lead the function.

You’ll run the mechanical engineering team, set technical direction, and make sure products are delivered properly, on time, and to the right standard. It’s hands-on leadership within a fast-paced product environment.

What will you be doing?

• Leading and developing the mechanical engineering team across new and existing product ranges
• Owning mechanical delivery from concept through detailed design, validation, and into production
• Overseeing the design and testing of mechanical components and systems
• Working closely with electronics, software, manufacturing, and product teams to ensure requirements are met
• Driving consistent engineering standards, structured design reviews, and clear documentation
• Managing timelines, budgets, and engineering priorities
• Implementing and monitoring KPIs to improve team performance and accountability
• Mentoring engineers and building long-term capability within the department
• Keeping up to date with advancements in portable product design, materials, and manufacturing processes

What are they looking for?

• Degree qualified in Mechanical Engineering (or closely related discipline)
• Proven experience leading a mechanical engineering team in a product development environment
• Strong background in consumer or portable product development (mobile devices would be beneficial)
• Solid understanding of manufacturing processes, particularly injection moulding
• Strong CAD capability (CREO or SolidWorks) and experience using simulation tools such as ANSYS
• A track record of delivering products from early concept through to production
• Experience managing engineering budgets, schedules, and technical risk
• Ability to define processes, standards, and measurable KPIs
• Confident communicator who can challenge constructively and work cross-functionally
• Structured, analytical approach to problem solving

Nice to have

• Experience working on ruggedised or high-reliability products
• Background in regulated or mission-critical environments
• Experience leading multi-disciplinary or cross-site engineering teams

Benefits

• Personal Pension Plan (Employer 6% / Employee 4.5%) with access to an outsourced pension advisor
• Private Healthcare (option to add family via salary sacrifice)
• Dental cover (option to add family via salary sacrifice)
• Income Protection
• Life assurance scheme – 4x annual salary
• 25 days holiday, plus bank holidays, with option to buy or sell leave
• Electric car scheme
• Discounted gym membership (Inspire Health & Fitness Club, Waterbeach)
• Subsidised onsite restaurant
• Discretionary performance-related bonus