Head of Engineering

Job Description

Eaton Aerospace Group Mission Systems Division (MSD) Precision Control Systems (PCS) has an opening for a Senior Engineering Manager at the Cambridge and Cheltenham, UK facilities. The Senior Engineering Manager reports directly to the Director, Engineering MSD and serves as Head of Engineering for the Critical Controls, Stores Ejection, and Data Processing value streams.

The role involves leading engineering on new product development, introduction, research and development programmes, and aftermarket programmes. It requires close collaboration with programme management and in‑service support teams to align global aerospace objectives, manage risk, plan portfolios, and implement organisational performance measures.

Responsibilities

• Lead a global team of approximately 50 engineering staff, ensuring current and future product support and technical support for customers.
• Execute engineering functions for New Product Introduction, Internal R&D, and Aftermarket, while supporting the In‑Service Support team.
• Build and grow the engineering talent base, providing opportunities for growth and leadership for managers and engineers.
• Improve engineering efficiency through organisational management, use of engineering tools, training, and continuous improvement.
• Ensure product documentation, design standards and material specifications are developed on a global basis to avoid duplication and strengthen corporate image.
• Make product designs competitive globally in quality, reliability and cost.
• Collaborate with Aerospace Group level & corporate level Centres of Excellence to streamline product development and execution.
• Apply robust design practices such as Design for Six Sigma (DFSS) and promote an “analysis first” mindset.
• Establish digital processes such as Model‑Based Definition (MBD) and Model‑Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) aligned with the Aerospace Group strategy.
• Address proprietary rights and product liability concerns in coordination with corporate legal staff.
• Forecast worldwide aircraft system activities and customer plans to assess product opportunities and threats.
• Develop action plans with customers to address new requirements.
• Set and implement a global engineering strategy, supporting the growth and productivity of Best Cost Country engineering.
• Identify key engineering metrics, monitor performance and drive improvements.
• Maintain close liaison with customers for application reviews, requirement development and major product modifications, prototype qualification and performance resolution.
• Maintain contacts with universities to foster advanced product development and potential hires.
• Other duties as assigned.

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering from an accredited institution.
• 10 years of experience in aerospace or a high‑tech industry with new product development and sustaining support.

Position Criteria

• Experience conducting competitive analyses and defining/executing business‑level strategy.
• Familiarity with Electronic Control, Data Systems, and Pneumatic systems and/or products is preferred.
• Demonstrated leadership and design process experience, portfolio and programme management skills, knowledge of customer strategies and successful new product introduction.
• Proven track record of driving change and developing technology development plans.

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced engineering degree or MBA.
• 15 years of experience in aerospace, including electronic control, data systems, and pneumatic systems or components.
• 8 years of leading or managing people (direct or indirect).
• Experience leading or managing 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 hours) with the option to buy/sell 5 days (37 hours) plus bank holidays.
• Four times 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.

Nationality Requirements

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

Diverse & Inclusive Employer

Ultra PCS is an equal opportunities employer that values diversity, inclusion, equity and equality. We promote a workplace welcoming people from all backgrounds and cultures, ensuring our workforce reflects a diversity of thinking and that we continue to deliver on our commitments to 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.