Lead Mechanical Engineer - Antenna Systems

Location: Rawtenstall

Lead Mechanical Engineer - Antenna Systems

This is an opportunity to join a business with a long history in satellite communications that is entering an exciting new phase of growth.

The company is expanding into new products, technologies and markets, creating an opportunity for an experienced Mechanical Engineer to play a key role in the development of the next generation of antenna systems.

As Lead Mechanical Engineer, you will take ownership of the design and development of steerable antenna systems used within satellite ground stations. These range from smaller motorised antenna systems through to large, complex structures, all requiring a combination of mechanical design expertise, systems thinking and engineering leadership.

This is a hands-on leadership role rather than a purely management position. You'll be leading the design function whilst remaining closely involved in the technical detail, working alongside engineers to solve problems, review designs and support the development of new products.

You will initially lead a small team consisting of experienced mechanical and microwave engineers, with plans for the team to grow as the business continues its expansion. The role will involve coordinating design activities, leading design reviews, overseeing development programmes and ensuring projects progress from concept through to manufacture and delivery.

You'll work closely with internal stakeholders across R&D, production and project teams, helping to bridge the gap between design and manufacture while ensuring technical solutions meet both customer and business requirements.

This role could suit an experienced engineering manager who still enjoys being involved in design work, or a strong Senior Mechanical Engineer looking to take their first step into leadership. In either case, you'll need the credibility and technical expertise to lead from the front and support the development of both products and people.

The business offers the opportunity to make a genuine impact. With significant investment in future growth and a strong pipeline of new developments, you'll have the chance to help shape both the technology roadmap and the future direction of the engineering team.

Key Requirements

• Strong mechanical design background within satellite communications

• Experience designing antennas, steerable antenna systems or similar mechanical structures

• Understanding of motorised positioning systems, mechanisms and motion control

• Experience leading engineering projects through design, development and manufacture

• Ability to manage and coordinate multidisciplinary engineering activities

• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills

• Comfortable remaining hands-on whilst leading a team

• Experience working within SATCOM, RF, aerospace, defence or related engineering environments

• Degree qualified in Mechanical Engineering or a relevant engineering discipline

• Ability to work on-site in Accrington