MERITUS Talent are working with leading defence contractor the recruitment of a Configuration Engineering Lead to join their team in the New Malden office. This is a permanent position with hybrid working, and a 9 day fortnight as an option. Candidates must be sole UK Nationals and either hold or be eligible for an SC Clearance.
Overview
This is more than just a job—it’s an opportunity to lead a crucial engineering function within a highly regulated defence environment. We're seeking an experienced Configuration Engineering Manager to take ownership of the Configuration capability across the organisation's Defence Operating Unit.
In this leadership role, you'll be responsible for both functional management and direct programme involvement. You’ll lead a small team (approx. 2–5 engineers), managing workload, performance, development, and delivery of configuration engineering activities in line with business strategy and programme needs.
Key Responsibilities
Functional Management
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Lead and line manage the Configuration Engineering team, ensuring safety, delivery, and performance
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Identify capability gaps and develop plans for functional improvement and future needs
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Plan internal/external training and support career progression for the team
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Manage resource allocation across programmes, including recruitment and external supplier engagement
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Ensure engineering processes are followed and outputs meet cost, time, and quality standards
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Act as functional lead on complex projects and issues where required
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Approve and review technical documentation and plans relevant to Configuration Engineering
Programme Involvement
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Deliver Configuration Management Plans (CMPs) aligned with contractual and lifecycle requirements
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Provide input to programme engineering strategy and support the implementation of configuration models across design, documentation, software, and data
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Support in-service configuration activities and contribute to ongoing maintenance and control
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Participate in design audits, functional reviews, and governance assessments
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Own or support functional processes and liaise with the technical governance team to ensure compliance
Leadership & Collaboration
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Promote a positive, inclusive team culture with a focus on quality, accountability and continuous improvement
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Collaborate with engineering and cross-functional teams to meet delivery milestones
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Represent the function to stakeholders and contribute to business-wide engineering excellence
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Promote the function’s capability, performance, and contributions across the wider organisation
What We're Looking For
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Degree in Engineering, Technical or related subject, or equivalent practical experience
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Strong background in Configuration Engineering within defence, aerospace, or maritime sectors
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Proven experience leading engineering teams and delivering projects
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Sound knowledge of Configuration Standards (e.g., Def Stan 05-057) and lifecycle requirements
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Skilled in planning and executing configuration models across product development and in-service environments
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Strong stakeholder engagement and communication skills
Benefits
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Flexible and hybrid working options (including 9-day fortnight)
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Private healthcare
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Career development pathways and mentorship
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Performance-related bonuses
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Industry-leading tools and facilities
Please Note:
Due to the nature of work, applicants must be eligible for UK Security Clearance.
