Head of Mechanical Engineering

Location: Horningsea

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 Solid Works) 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