Head of Engineering - Motorsport

FAT Karting League (FKL) is a fast-growing, disruptive motor sport start-up with operations in the UK and US, and bold ambitions for global expansion. We’re reinventing grassroots motor sport by combining the accessibility of arrive‑and‑drive karting with the precision, safety, and performance standards of professional racing.

We’re now seeking a Head of Engineering to lead the technical vision and execution behind our current and future generations of FKL karts. This is a unique opportunity for an engineer who can think strategically, act decisively, and isn’t afraid to get hands‑on when it counts. You’ll define our engineering roadmap, lead and grow a small but highly capable team, and personally deliver critical systems that set new benchmarks for performance, reliability, and innovation.

This role sits at the heart of our mission. FKL is still in its start‑up phase: agile, ambitious, and unafraid to challenge convention. We’re building fast, solving real engineering problems, and creating a platform that will change how people enter and experience motor sport.

We offer a competitive salary which is commensurate with experience. We’re open to discussing expectations early in the process to ensure a good match.

If you’re motivated by innovation, inspired by purpose, and eager to build something that truly moves – in every sense – we want to hear from you.

• Lead and develop the FKL engineering team.
• Lead and deliver all aspects of kart design and engineering including setting clear processes and standards for kart servicing, quality, and performance across all vehicles and global karting hubs.
• Plan and manage engineering schedules to meet operational and event timelines.

• Lead on engineering specification, design, upgrades, and modifications to optimise performance and reliability.
• Develop and implement consistent engineering processes and documentation.
• Develop reporting methods and analyse technical performance data to identify areas for improvement and innovation.

• Work closely with the Operations and Event teams to ensure seamless technical delivery at every race event.
• Coordinate with suppliers and partners for parts, materials, and technical support.

• Drive technical excellence: Identify, develop, and implement new tools, systems, and processes that enhance engineering efficiency, consistency, and quality across all FKL projects.
• Shape the future: Play a leading role in developing current and future generations of FKL karts, setting new standards for performance, safety, and innovation.
• Build capability: Empower and grow the FKL engineering team, championing curiosity, collaboration, and a relentless drive for technical excellence.
• Champion innovation: Encourage experimentation and creative problem‑solving, ensuring FKL remains at the forefront of grassroots motor sport engineering.

We’re looking for a leader who pairs deep technical expertise with a genuine passion for motor sport. You’ll thrive in a fast‑moving, hands‑on environment where ideas turn into prototypes quickly, and every improvement makes a visible difference on track. You’re as comfortable setting the strategic direction as you are getting into the detail; leading from the front, solving problems, and inspiring those around you to raise the bar.

• At least five years of relevant engineering experience, ideally with exposure to motor sport or high‑performance mechanical systems.
• Strong experience in mechanical engineering, motor sport engineering, or a closely related field.
• Proven experience of successfully managing technical teams.
• Proven track record of successfully managing projects from ideation and concept through to completion.
• Recent experience of design engineering and ability to use CAD, demonstrating knowledge of the most up‑to‑date design processes and best practices.
• Experience in the field of reliability engineering including defining best practice for issue root cause analysis, logging and solutions strategy.
• A solution‑orientated attitude and a bias for action.
• A self‑starter with…