Overview

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Head of Engineering to lead and manage all engineering activities at the launch and support sites for our client SaxaVord Spaceport. This role is pivotal in ensuring the successful delivery of operational and client spaceflight activities. Reporting directly to the Director of Operations, the successful candidate will oversee a team of three direct reports and play a critical role in maintaining and enhancing our engineering capabilities.

Responsibilities

As the Head of Engineering, your key responsibilities will include:

• Leading the implementation and supervision of new engineering capabilities, ensuring safety, operational efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.
• Ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations and legislation for the installation, maintenance, and operation of engineering systems at the launch site.
• Developing and managing a Computerised Maintenance Management System (CMMS) for all launch site assets.
• Providing expert engineering advice and support to internal teams and external clients.
• Establishing clear processes and procedures to align operations with Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 (CDM2015).
• Managing the Engineering Team to achieve 95% capability availability for routine operations, rising to 100% during test and launch campaigns.
• Supervising the integration of all products, services, and systems to ensure compatibility and reliability.
• Monitoring engineering management systems to ensure readiness at key operational milestones.
• Investigating accidents, incidents, and near misses within your area of responsibility.
• Developing and maintaining a site risk register in collaboration with the Operations Manager.
• Acting as a deputy for the Operations Manager during absences or periods of high operational demand.
• Supporting other functions and participating in professional development activities to maintain professional accreditation.
• Identifying and addressing future capability gaps to align with the company’s growth.
• Developing processes to support the Support Site element of the spaceport.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate will possess the following qualifications, skills, and experience:

• Incorporated Engineer or working towards this status, or equivalent experience (essential).
• Qualified to SCQF Level 9.
• Experience in a fast-moving work environment (highly desirable).
• Experience in a regulated, safety-critical environment (essential).
• Familiarity with ISO 9001 and Integrated Management Systems (highly desirable).
• Experience with complex logistics or remote work environments (desirable).
• Strong understanding of technologies that support operations.
• Excellent knowledge of Computerised Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS).
• Good understanding of CDM Regulations 2015.
• Clear and confident communication skills, written and verbal.
• Strong organisational and time management skills.
• High attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to prioritise and manage multiple tasks.