Lead Project Engineer

Fortress Recruit are working with a leading defence engineering business in the recruitment of a Project Engineer, to lead the development of innovative product solutions across multi-disciplinary engineering teams.

This role focuses on taking new and existing product concepts from early-stage development through to production, combining technical leadership with hands-on involvement in design, problem-solving and engineering decision-making within a highly regulated defence environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and coordinate multi-disciplinary engineering teams across mechanical, electrical and systems disciplines
• Own the technical delivery of product development activities from concept, design and validation through to production
• Play a key role in early-stage development, feasibility and engineering problem-solving
• Act as the primary engineering interface across internal teams, customers and suppliers
• Drive Design for Excellence (DfX) principles throughout the product lifecycle
• Lead design reviews, ensuring robust yet practical engineering governance
• Support the transition of products from development into manufacturing, ensuring full technical data pack readiness
• Support make vs buy decisions, supplier selection and technical evaluations
• Monitor technical risks, challenges and performance across development projects

To be considered for this role, you will have:

• Degree in Engineering discipline or equivalent experience
• Proven experience in a Project Engineer or similar role within a product development or R&D environment
• Experience delivering engineering projects within complex or regulated industries
• Exposure to defence, aerospace, maritime or similar high-integrity sectors
• Understanding of design for manufacture and engineering best practice
• Proficiency with CAD tools (e.g. SolidWorks or CREO) and standard engineering systems
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills
• Eligibility for SC clearance (5 years UK residency with no visa or sponsorship requirement)

This is an engineering-led role suited to someone who enjoys solving complex technical challenges, contributing to new product development and taking ownership of ideas through to real-world application.

This is a full-time, permanent role based on-site in Poole, with competitive salary and benefits on offer.

For a confidential conversation or to request the full job description, please click apply and send a full copy of your CV to Becki.