KO2 Embedded Recruitment Solutions Ltd
Principal Electronics Engineer
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Principal Electronics Engineer
Stafford / Rugeley, Staffordshire Up to £70,000
The Opportunity
KO2's client is a specialist engineering business operating in a highly regulated and technically demanding sector. They design, manufacture, and deliver electronic systems where performance and reliability are paramount, working on programmes that deliver genuine real-world impact. This is a rare opportunity for a Principal Electronics Engineer to join a small, expert team working on some of the most technically challenging and commercially significant projects in their field.
Why This Role Is Worth Your Attention
This is not a conventional electronic engineering role—this is one where you will work on high-integrity systems requiring advanced analogue design and a proven ability to take technical ownership from concept to delivery.
Key aspects of the role:
- Design and development of electronic systems for weapons interface applications in the UK defence sector (SC security clearance required)
- Based at the Rugeley office, Staffordshire, with weekly travel commitments to High Wycombe (travel and accommodation fully covered)
- Flexible working arrangement of 4.5 days/week, with alternating Friday afternoons off and a gradual shift from on-site to flexible/remote work
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the design and development of complex electronic systems, from concept through to delivery, including:
- System architecture, requirements definition, and technical sign-off
- Analogue and mixed-signal design architecture and component selection
- Circuit analysis, simulation, and formal design reviews
- Schematic capture supervision and PCB layout coordination
- Verification, integration, qualification testing, and production support
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- Technical authority for electronics, acting as the expert guide across multiple concurrent programmes
- Support and mentor junior engineers under your guidance
- Represent the business in technical reviews, customer consultation, and project-level decisions
Requirements
Essential:
✅ Degree/Diploma (HNC/HND+) in Electical or Electronic Engineering ✅ Significant experience designing electronics for high-reliability or regulated industries ✅ Strong expertise in analogue design with experience in circuit simulation:
- Simulation tools commonly used in test/verification phases
- Linear circuit analysis, power management, and stability considerations
✅ Hands-on experience with communication protocols (e.g., RS485, SPI, I2C, CAN) ✅ Deep understanding of component selection, derating strategies, reliability, and supply chain lifecycle logistics ✅ Ability to author and review technical documentation including:
- Schematic diagrams, design specifications, and verification test reports
- PCB design standards, DfM considerations, and layout coordination ✅ Self-motivation with confidence to drive technical delivery in a fast-paced environment ✅ Eligibility for SC security clearance (with preference given to UK-clearable applicants)
⚠️ Note: Periodic travel for UK projects involved, requiring occasional stays in High Wycombe (excluding financial burden for accommodation/travel).
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Desirable:
🔹 For advanced roles, experience with EMC design and compliance testing 🔹 Basic digital logic/signal processing for mixed-signal systems 🔹 Prior designation for wiring definitions (system harnesses/routing) 🔹 Familiarity with Altium Designer or PCB design CAD tools 🔹 Experience in defence/aerospace sectors
Security Requirements
- British nationality required (dual nationals considered in controlled circumstances—verify at interview)
- Eligibility for SC security clearance following DBS endorsement
- No criminal convictions recognized during background screening (BPSS is mandatory)
Salary and Remuneration
- Base salary: up to £70,000 per annum
- Includes pension, life insurance, and a competitive benefits package
- All approved travel or hotel costs during High Wycombe site visits are reimbursed
- Consideration for base relocation, transport linkages, and professional development allowances
For further enquiries
Please contact the KO2 team in confidence to discuss terms or requirements. Apply to advance your career in high-stakes recognised design.
Note: This position supports LTI (Long-Term Industrial) applications. References and verifications will be rigorously checked.
KO2 is a proud supporter of the UK tech sector, guiding steady growth, career progression, and structured placement opportunities.
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