Engineering Manager

Engineering Manager

Location:

Horsham
Salary: £80,000 - £85,000 DOE
We are seeking an experienced Engineering Manager to join a high-performing engineering team in Horsham. This is a senior leadership role within a defence-focused environment, offering the opportunity to lead talented mechanical engineers working on advanced electro-mechanical systems for surveillance, fire-control, and radar positioning applications.
This role will suit a confident technical leader who can combine strong mechanical design expertise with people management, strategic thinking, and a passion for innovation. You will be responsible for guiding the team through the full system lifecycle, from concept and analysis through to design, delivery, and continuous improvement.
The role

Lead, mentor, and develop a team of mechanical engineers.
Provide technical guidance and support on complex engineering challenges.
Drive continuous improvement across tools, training, and engineering processes.
Monitor team performance and support staff development through regular 1:1s, mentoring, and personal development planning.
Support sales activity by defining mechanical requirements, developing concept solutions, and contributing to bids and estimates.
Work with Integrated Portfolio Teams to manage resources and support recruitment planning.
Collaborate with systems, software, electronics, and electrical teams to ensure smooth integration.
Contribute to engineering strategy, team objectives, and long-term planning.
Keep the business informed of emerging technologies and industry developments.
Ensure all design activity meets safety, regulatory, and defence industry requirements.

The ideal candidate

Degree qualified in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related discipline.
Extensive experience designing and delivering complex mechanisms and structures.
Proven leadership experience managing projects and people.
Strong background in design analysis and performance calculations, including FEA.
Experience designing equipment for harsh or demanding environments.
Confident working on bids and engaging with customers on new business opportunities.
Strong track record in innovation and concept development.
Committed to continuous improvement.
Broad knowledge of manufacturing techniques including machining, sheet metal forming, casting, fabrication, and moulding.

Experience with electromechanical drive mechanisms such as motors, gearboxes, and ball screws.
Understanding of mechanical requirements driven by electrical and optical components.
Experience using Solid Works and Solid Works PDM.What’s on offer

Salary of £80,000 - £85,000 DOE.
Senior leadership opportunity with real influence over engineering direction.
Chance to work on advanced defence systems with world-class applications.
Collaborative environment with scope to lead, develop, and innovate.
Opportunity to shape engineering capability and support business growth.

This is an excellent opportunity for a Mechanical Engineering leader looking to take ownership of a technically challenging and high-impact role in a dynamic environment