Job Description:

Engineering Manager (Mechanical) – Step Up from Lead Engineer

Location: Bedfordshire (Hybrid/Flexible Working, 2-3 Days Office)

Are you a Lead Mechanical Engineer ready to step into Engineering Management, but still want to stay close to complex, high-value engineering?

This is a full Engineering Manager position from day one, offering the chance to take ownership of an engineering function while continuing to engage with technically challenging design and analysis work.

We’re working with a globally recognised engineering business, delivering advanced mechanical solutions into critical industries including power generation, oil & gas, defence and nuclear. They’re looking for a technically strong leader who can drive engineering excellence while developing a team.

🚀 The Opportunity

This is a hands-on engineering leadership role, ideal for someone moving up from a Lead or Principal position.

You’ll be responsible for:

• Leading and developing the engineering team
• Owning technical delivery, quality, and compliance
• Acting as the technical authority across complex mechanical projects

All while staying closely involved in:

• Advanced mechanical design and analysis
• Solving complex engineering challenges
• Driving continuous improvement across engineering capability

🔧 What You’ll Be Doing

• Taking full responsibility for the Engineering function and its performance
• Leading and managing engineers, including mentorship, development and performance
• Owning design quality, technical decisions and engineering standards (ASME, etc.)
• Reviewing and approving engineering outputs across multiple projects
• Supporting customer and bid activity with high-level technical expertise
• Collaborating closely with production, commercial and senior leadership teams
• Driving a culture of innovation, quality and continuous improvement

✅ What We’re Looking For

• Strong background in mechanical engineering design, ideally within rotating equipment (pumps, turbines, compressors)
• Experience working at Senior/Lead Engineer level or above, with clear leadership exposure
• Strong knowledge of engineering standards, compliance and analysis (FEA/manual calculations)
• Proficiency with SolidWorks or similar CAD tools
• A natural leader who is ready to step into full management responsibility
• Someone who enjoys both technical problem solving and developing people

🌟 Why This Role Stands Out

• Step into Engineering Management immediately with real ownership
• Maintain strong involvement in technically complex engineering work
• Flexible and hybrid working options
• Clear scope to shape and influence engineering strategy and team capability
• Strong package including pension, healthcare and development support

💡 Why Apply?

If you’re a Lead Mechanical Engineer who:

• Is ready to take the next step into management now
• Doesn’t want to lose their technical edge
• Wants to lead projects and people in a challenging engineering environment

…this is a rare opportunity to step up without stepping away from hands-on engineering.

Apply now or get in touch for a confidential discussion.