Chief Engineer

Engineering
Uk
June 17, 2025
£45 - £55 / year
Full Time Permanent
Apply Now

Job Description

Chief Engineer – Automation Systems Group (ASG)

Job Ref: 110608-0625
Location: University of Warwick, Coventry
Department: WMG
Contract Type: Indefinite (linked to external funding)
Salary: Competitive
Closing Date: Monday 23rd June 2025, 11:55pm

Make an Impact in the Future of Smart Manufacturing

We are seeking a visionary and technically accomplished Chief Engineer to lead innovation in smart manufacturing automation within the Automation Systems Group (ASG) at WMG, University of Warwick.

This is a pivotal leadership role where your expertise will help shape the direction of cutting-edge automation projects, develop strategic partnerships across industry and academia, and contribute to research with real-world application.

This is an indefinite position but currently supported by limited-term funding, with an anticipated end date of 30th June 2027.

For informal enquiries, please contact Professor Robert Harrison at: robert.harrison@warwick.ac.uk

What You’ll Be Doing

As Chief Engineer, you’ll be responsible for:

  • Providing strategic technical leadership across all ASG research and applications engineering activities.
  • Managing a team of senior engineers, ensuring the successful delivery of complex, multi-partner projects.
  • Engaging with industry partners, system integrators, suppliers, and academic collaborators to expand and deepen ASG’s reach.
  • Advising and supporting senior leadership across WMG, including the Head of ASG, WMG CTO, Manufacturing Theme Head, and Associate Dean (Research).
  • Driving innovation and contributing to impactful projects funded by UKRI, HVM Catapult, and direct industry contracts.

What We’re Looking For

We are looking for a candidate with:

  • Proven technical and strategic expertise in manufacturing automation systems.
  • Strong leadership and line management experience, ideally in a research or innovation environment.
  • The ability to identify and develop new research and commercial opportunities.
  • A clear understanding of key industry sectors, including automotive, aerospace, electrification, rail, and agri-tech.

Please review the person specification in the attached job description for a detailed breakdown of the skills and experience required.

About WMG and ASG

WMG is the largest academic department at the University of Warwick, home to over 800 staff and a thriving community of students, researchers, and industrial partners. Our work bridges academia and industry, delivering applied research, advanced teaching, and commercial innovation.

The Automation Systems Group (ASG) plays a crucial role in collaborative automation research projects, tackling real-world challenges in emerging technologies. We work with end-users, integrators, and tech suppliers to turn visionary concepts into industrial success.

Why Join Us?

  • Be part of a globally recognised research centre with impact across sectors.
  • Collaborate with world-class experts in automation and advanced manufacturing.
  • Access state-of-the-art research facilities and long-standing partnerships with UK industry.
  • Enjoy the benefits of working at a Russell Group university, ranked in the global top 70 by QS (2024).

We are proud holders of the Athena SWAN Silver Award, demonstrating our commitment to advancing gender equality in academia.

Flexible and Inclusive Workplace

We welcome applications for part-time and flexible working arrangements, wherever feasible for the role. At Warwick, we aim to create a working environment where everyone can thrive, regardless of background.

As an equal opportunities employer, we actively encourage applications from underrepresented groups, including those from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds, individuals with disabilities, and members of the LGBTQ+ community.

Visa Sponsorship and Right to Work

Applicants who require Skilled Worker visa sponsorship are encouraged to apply.
For details on eligibility and sponsorship routes, please visit:
UK Visas and Immigration – GOV.UK

How to Apply

Apply online by Monday 23rd June 2025 at 11:55pm.
Late applications cannot be accepted, even if the form is open before the deadline.

To apply, you must submit:

  • A CV detailing your employment history, qualifications, and relevant achievements.
  • A cover letter addressing how you meet the essential criteria outlined in the job specification.

Further Information

Shape the Future. Lead with Innovation. Join Warwick.

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