Head of engineering

About Ultra Precision Control Systems (Ultra PCS)

Ultra PCS is a leading developer of mission‑ and safety‑critical equipment in the defence and aerospace industry. Our team of experts is at the heart of our success, creating a safe working environment and a positive culture where every staff member feels valued and respected. We solve our customers’ problems by providing engineering solutions to safety and mission‑critical challenges in the air and on the ground. Our solutions can be found in the latest military and civil aircraft, in unmanned vehicles, and in other defence applications.

Flexible working options are available wherever possible, including hybrid home/office arrangements, flexible hours, and part‑ or full‑time employment.

Position Overview

The Senior Engineering Manager will be based at the Cambridge and Cheltenham, UK facilities reporting directly to the Director of Engineering within the Eaton Aerospace Group Mission Systems Division (MSD) Precision Control Systems (PCS). The Senior Engineering Manager will serve as Head of Engineering for the Critical Controls, Stores Ejection, and Data Processing value streams and will manage engineering on new product development, introduction, research & development programs, and aftermarket programmes.

Responsibilities

• Lead a global team of approximately 50 highly professional and technical engineering staff to support current product support, future product development, and technical support for customers.
• Manage and execute engineering functions for New Product Introduction, Internal Research & Development, and Aftermarket alongside in‑service support teams.
• Organise and build the talent base within the engineering organisation, creating opportunities for growth and development.
• Provide functional leadership for engineering managers and teams, improving engineering efficiency through organisational management, engineering tools, training and continuous improvement.
• Ensure proper product documentation, design standards, and material specifications are developed and maintained.
• Work cooperatively with global teams to avoid duplication, enhance product strategy, and improve corporate image as a global supplier.
• Ensure product designs are competitive globally in quality, reliability and cost.
• Collaborate with Aerospace Group and corporate Centres of Excellence to integrate product development, execution processes and organisational capability development.
• Promote best practices of robust design (Design for Six Sigma, DFSS) and an “analysis first” mindset.
• Establish digital processes and experiences, including Model‑Based Definition (MBD) and Model‑Based Systems Engineering (MBSE), aligned to the Aerospace Group strategy.
• Coordinate with corporate legal staff to address proprietary rights and product liability concerns.
• Forecast worldwide aircraft system activities and customer plans to identify opportunities and threats, and develop action plans with customers.
• Implement a global engineering strategy and tactical measures to ensure its realisation.
• Support the growth and productivity of the Best Cost Country engineering function.
• Identify key engineering metrics, monitor performance and drive continuous improvement.
• Liaise with customers for application reviews, new product requirements, major modifications, prototype qualification test requirements and product performance issues.
• Maintain contacts with universities for advanced product development and talent recruitment.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering from an accredited institution.
• At least 10 years of experience within aerospace or a high‑tech industry with new product development and sustaining support.
• Experience in conducting competitive analyses and executing business‑level strategy.
• Familiarity with Electronic Control, Data Systems, and Pneumatic systems and/or products is preferred.
• Demonstrated leadership skills, experience with design processes, portfolio and programme management, knowledge of customer strategies, and successful new product introduction experience.
• Creative and innovative thinking with a proven track record of driving change and executing technology development plans.

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced engineering degree or MBA preferred.
• At least 15 years of experience within the aerospace industry, including experience in Electronic Control, Data Systems, and Pneumatic systems and/or components.
• At least 8 years of experience leading or managing people (direct or indirect), including a global team.
• Key role in an aerospace‑related professional organisation.
• DFSS Greenbelt Certification.

Benefits

• Flexible working within core working hours.
• 25 days holiday (185 hrs) with the option to buy/sell 5 days (37 hrs) plus bank holidays.
• Annual salary in life assurance.
• Flexible benefits package.
• Funded health benefits.
• Pension Scheme – up to 8% employer contributions.
• Supportive and friendly working environment with regular team events.

Diverse & Inclusive Employer

Ultra PCS is an equal opportunities employer that values diversity, inclusion, equity and equality. We promote a workplace that welcomes people from all backgrounds and cultures, believing that this will increase diversity of thinking and help us deliver on our commitments to our customers. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, colour, national origin, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status or disability status and welcome applications from all candidates.

Nationality Requirements

Candidates must be able to work in the UK without restrictions in accordance with UK National Law and must be prepared to successfully undertake an appropriate level of UK National Security Vetting according to UK Government National Security Vetting criteria.