Head of Mechanical Engineering

Location: Kent, England | £70,000

We’re working with a multinational market leader in engineering and manufacturing, developing complex electro-mechanical products used worldwide. They’re looking for a Head of Mechanical Engineering to lead design, development, and change management across a multi-site environment.

Benefits highlights: Private healthcare, life assurance at 2x salary, and contributory pension matched up to 5%.

The role

You’ll lead and develop a mechanical engineering team alongside a product change function, ensuring delivery of robust, high-quality products. You’ll also take ownership of a PLM system rollout and drive consistency across international teams.

You’ll work closely with senior stakeholders across engineering, product, and manufacturing to improve delivery, quality, and efficiency.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and develop the mechanical engineering and product change teams
• Own mechanical design, product updates, and development activities
• Lead implementation of a PLM system (3DX or similar)
• Define and manage engineering processes, tools, and standards
• Oversee CAD, drawings, PDM, and change control activities
• Drive product performance across mechanical, thermal, and reliability aspects
• Support certification to relevant electrical and environmental standards
• Improve design, analysis, and delivery performance across the function
• Ensure alignment across international teams and sites
• Manage multiple programmes in a fast-paced environment

What they’re looking for

• Degree or equivalent in Mechanical or Production Engineering
• Strong leadership experience within an engineering environment
• Background in product design and development (10+ years)
• Experience implementing or managing PLM / change management systems
• Good understanding of manufacturing environments
• Able to balance strategy with hands-on technical oversight

Desirable

• Experience with safety standards (e.g. BS EN 61010 or similar)
• Knowledge of FEA, stress or flow analysis
• Experience with tooling, jigs, and fixtures
• Understanding of electrical safety and EMC
• Familiarity with PCB/mechanical integration

What’s on offer

• Senior leadership role with real influence on engineering direction
• Private healthcare, life assurance, and contributory pension matched up to 5%
• Long-term progression within a multinational market-leading business