Talent Locker
Engineering Manager | Defence
Get notified of more jobs like this · No spam, ever
How your CV stacks up
Upload your CV to see how well it fits this job role
?%
Engineering Manager | Defence
Wiltshire | Hybrid – 3-4 days onsite | Up to £130,000 + benefits
We're looking for an Engineering Manager to build and lead a new software engineering team working on a major, long-term UK defence programme.
This is much more than a traditional people management role.
You'll build the team, shape how it operates, own delivery and develop your engineers, while remaining technically engaged across architecture, design and engineering standards.
The Challenge
- Build a new engineering team from the ground up, including hiring and onboarding
- Establish the engineering standards, processes and ways of working the team will operate by
- Own delivery against demanding customer and programme commitments
- Manage, mentor and develop software engineers, with genuine ownership of their progression and performance
- Stay technically involved across architecture, design and code reviews
- Work closely with senior stakeholders and customer teams
- Help shape solutions across Java, PostgreSQL and Angular
- Travel internationally on a regular basis this is a significant and non-negotiable part of the role
Reasons to use Rodeo
Start with a chat, not a search bar
Grad scheme, placement, apprenticeship? Not sure what you want yet — that's fine. Your agent talks it through with you and turns "I have no idea" into a shortlist.
It searches the market for you
Every day your agent scans the market matching roles against what actually matters to you, not just keywords on a CV.
Only hits
No noise. No "maybe this fits." Just roles with a clear explanation of why they're right — and where to focus when applying.
The experience that matters
- Proven experience managing software engineers and developing technical teams
- Strong software engineering background, ideally with Java
- Experience across PostgreSQL and Angular
- Strong technical judgement, with the ability to contribute to architecture and design
- Experience hiring and building engineering teams
- Strong stakeholder and customer management skills
- A genuine interest in technology and a desire to remain technically involved
- Comfortable with regular international travel
Get help with your application
Your very own career expert that helps elevate your application to the next level.
Existing SC clearance is desirable but not essential. You must be eligible and willing to undergo UK security clearance. Defence, government or regulated-sector experience would be advantageous, but isn't essential.
Why consider it?
You'll have the opportunity to build a team from the ground up, influence how it operates and develop engineers around you, while still being close to the technology.
If you're an Engineering Manager who wants genuine ownership rather than simply inheriting an established team, this could be a great fit!
Apply directly or get in touch!
“It took my CV and asked me questions relevant to understanding what kind of jobs to suggest for me. Suggestions were almost perfect. Jobs were exactly what I’ve been looking for.”
Jessica, London