Project Manager (Defence / Engineering)
JMB93 – Project Manager (Defence / Engineering Programmes)
Location: North London
Salary: Dependent on experience
Job Type: Full-Time, Permanent
Overview
First Military Recruitment are currently seeking a Project Manager on behalf of one of our clients.
The successful candidate will manage customer-funded and internal development and production programmes within a specialist defence engineering environment.
You will take ownership of projects from initial planning and bid preparation through to delivery and closure, managing budgets, schedules, resources, risks and customer relationships. Working closely with departments across the business, you will ensure programmes are delivered to agreed contractual requirements and timescales.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Manage the planning and delivery of engineering projects and programmes from conception through to completion.
- Lead project bids, including cost estimates, scheduling and management approvals.
- Manage project budgets, expenditure, forecasts and financial reporting.
- Monitor progress against agreed schedules and take corrective action where required.
- Identify, assess and manage project risks.
- Act as the main point of contact for customers and internal stakeholders.
- Coordinate Engineering, Operations, Procurement, Commercial and subcontractor activities.
- Manage contractual obligations, equipment testing, delivery and installation arrangements.
- Provide regular project updates and financial reports to senior management.
- Support governance, export compliance and continuous improvement activities.
Skills and Qualifications
- Minimum 5 years’ practical experience within a Project Management environment.
- Experience managing engineering or technical development projects.
- Strong understanding of project management processes, scheduling and risk management.
- Experience managing budgets, forecasts and project expenditure.
- Excellent communication, presentation and report-writing skills.
- Commercial awareness and strong customer management skills.
- Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel and Project.
- HND or degree in Project Management or a relevant discipline, or equivalent experience.
Desirable:
- APM qualification.
- Experience managing software development projects.
- Knowledge of military, naval or defence contracts and processes.
- Understanding of lifecycle management and contractual requirements.
Why Join?
- Take ownership of important defence and engineering programmes.
- Play a key role in delivering specialist products and customer-funded development projects.
- Work closely with experienced teams across Engineering, Operations and Commercial functions.
- Gain exposure to major bids, customer relationships and international projects.
- Develop your programme management experience within a specialist defence environment.
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Production Engineer (Electromechanical)
JMB92 – Production Engineer (Electromechanical)
Location: North London
Salary: Dependent on experience
Job Type: Full-Time, Permanent
Overview
First Military Recruitment are currently seeking a Production Engineer on behalf of one of our clients.
The successful candidate will support and improve manufacturing processes within an electromechanical production environment. Working closely with Design, Manufacturing and Quality teams, you will help introduce new products, improve production efficiency and ensure manufacturing processes meet the required quality and performance standards.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Develop and maintain production processes, work instructions, operating procedures and test specifications.
- Support New Product Introduction (NPI), including pilot builds and the transition into full-scale production.
- Work with Design Engineering on design for manufacture and assembly improvements.
- Specify, maintain and troubleshoot production equipment, tooling, jigs and fixtures.
- Investigate production defects, identify root causes and implement corrective actions.
- Drive continuous improvement using Lean, Six Sigma, 5S and Kaizen principles.
- Analyse production performance, identify bottlenecks and improve efficiency.
- Provide technical support and guidance to production operators and technicians.
- Maintain accurate production documentation and quality standards.
Skills and Qualifications
- Minimum 2 years’ experience in Production Engineering, Manufacturing Support or Process Engineering.
- Experience working with electromechanical assemblies, including motors, sensors, PCBs, actuators and wiring.
- Strong understanding of mechanical and electrical manufacturing processes.
- Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing and quality tools such as FMEA, SPC, 8D and root cause analysis.
- Experience with KPI monitoring, process analysis and technical report writing.
- Familiarity with ERP/MRP systems such as SAP or Oracle.
- Strong problem-solving, communication and organisational skills.
Desirable:
- Experience in high-mix, low-volume manufacturing.
- Exposure to New Product Introduction (NPI).
- Experience with process validation, automation or continuous improvement projects.
Why Join?
- Play a key role in improving and developing manufacturing operations.
- Take ownership of production processes and continuous improvement projects.
- Work closely with Design, Engineering and Manufacturing teams.
- Gain exposure to New Product Introduction and specialist electromechanical products.
- Develop your technical and leadership skills within an established engineering environment.
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Senior RF Engineer (Defence)
JMB91 – Senior RF Engineer (Defence)
Location: North London
Salary: Dependent on experience
Job Type: Full-Time, Permanent
Overview
First Military Recruitment are currently seeking a Senior RF Engineer on behalf of one of our clients.
The successful candidate will lead and deliver RF and microwave engineering projects, supporting the development, testing and manufacture of RF modules and antenna systems. This is a hands-on technical role involving design, modelling, testing and supporting products throughout their lifecycle.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Lead RF and antenna development projects, including internal and subcontracted work packages.
- Design, maintain and improve RF circuits, microwave modules and antenna systems.
- Develop technical specifications and oversee verification and validation.
- Support RF module manufacture, fault investigation and root cause analysis.
- Provide technical support to engineering teams, suppliers and customers.
- Maintain RF production testing methods and technical documentation.
- Support product improvements, obsolescence management and design for manufacture.
Skills and Qualifications
- Experience in RF / microwave PCB design, including schematic development and PCB layout.
- Knowledge of RF components including amplifiers, LNAs, filters, mixers, circulators and PLLs.
- Understanding of RF system design and cascade analysis.
- Experience using RF test equipment, including Spectrum Analysers and Vector Network Analysers.
- Knowledge of antenna theory, design and testing, including array, slotted array and printed antennas.
- Understanding of design for manufacture and production processes such as SMT.
- Strong technical communication and problem-solving skills.
Desirable:
- Experience with Altium PCB Design and Altair RF.
- Background in radar, communications or defence-related technology.
- Knowledge of MATLAB, Python, test automation, EMC or regulatory compliance.
Why Join?
- Work on technically challenging RF and microwave engineering projects.
- Take ownership of significant design and development work packages.
- Contribute to the development and improvement of specialist products and technology.
- Work alongside experienced engineering professionals in a collaborative environment.
- Further develop your expertise across RF design, antenna technology and radar-related applications.
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Senior Software Engineer (C++ / Defence Systems)
JMB90 – Senior Software Engineer (C++ / Defence Systems)
Location: North London
Salary: Dependent on experience
Job Type: Full-Time, Permanent
Overview
First Military Recruitment are currently seeking a Senior Software Engineer on behalf of one of our clients.
The successful candidate will take responsibility for the design, development, testing and maintenance of software used within innovative defence and technology products. You will work across the full software development lifecycle, providing technical expertise while supporting and mentoring less experienced engineers.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Design, develop, implement and test software for new and existing products.
- Take ownership of software projects from initial specification through to verification.
- Maintain and enhance existing software in line with business and customer requirements.
- Apply sound engineering practices to deliver reliable, high-quality software.
- Provide technical guidance and support to junior colleagues.
- Liaise with customers, suppliers and engineering teams on software-related matters.
Skills and Qualifications
- Excellent understanding and practical experience of C++.
- Experience working across the full software development lifecycle.
- Good understanding of Microsoft Visual Studio 2022/2026.
- Degree in a relevant subject.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- GUI/UX or HCI experience would be advantageous.
- Knowledge of scripting languages such as Python or PowerShell would be beneficial.
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Senior Antenna Engineer – Defence / Radar Systems
JMB89 – Senior Antenna Engineer (Defence / Radar Systems)
Location: North London
Salary: Dependent on experience
Job Type: Full-Time, Permanent
Overview:
First Military Recruitment are currently seeking a Senior Antenna Engineer on behalf of one of our clients.
The successful candidate will lead significant engineering work packages involving antenna design, modelling, development, testing and technical support, alongside contributing to wider radar systems analysis and RF engineering activities.
This is an excellent opportunity to join a specialist engineering environment working on advanced radar and RF technology, taking ownership of antenna development projects from initial design through to testing, manufacture and ongoing product support.
Our client is particularly interested in candidates with backgrounds in Defence, Radar, Aerospace or RF Engineering, including suitably experienced ex-military personnel with relevant technical expertise.
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Lead antenna research, design and development activities.
- Manage and improve existing antenna designs, including testing methodologies and technical documentation.
- Support product improvements and obsolescence management.
- Develop engineering requirements, specifications and verification plans.
- Provide technical support to Systems, Hardware Engineering, Supply Chain, Quality, suppliers and customers.
- Support antenna and RF design activities, including production testing.
- Investigate manufacturing and technical issues, carrying out root cause and trend analysis.
- Ensure engineering procedures and quality standards are maintained throughout design and manufacture.
- Plan, estimate and manage antenna-related engineering work packages.
- Maintain accurate engineering records and technical documentation.
Skills and Qualifications:
- Proven experience in antenna design and development at microwave frequencies.
- Experience with printed and waveguide antenna design.
- Knowledge of antenna theory, array antennas, slotted arrays and printed antennas.
- Experience with RF component design or selection, including rotary joints, filters, splitters and combiners.
- Understanding of antenna system design and modelling software.
- Familiarity with RF test equipment, including Spectrum Analysers and Vector Network Analysers.
- Understanding of design for test and design for manufacture.
- Experience within a production engineering environment.
- Strong technical documentation and communication skills.
- Self-motivated with the ability to lead engineering projects and work collaboratively.
Desirable Experience:
- Previous experience within Defence, Radar or Aerospace engineering.
- Familiarity with Altair RF and antenna design software.
- Knowledge of radar systems and associated technologies.
- Experience with MATLAB, Python or AI-based engineering tools.
- Understanding of EMC and regulatory compliance.
- Experience with requirements management and systems engineering.
Why Apply?
An excellent opportunity to take ownership of complex antenna engineering projects, contribute to advanced radar technology and work within a specialist engineering environment.…
Test Technician
JMB98 – Test Technician
Location: North London
Salary: Dependent on experience
Job Type: Full-Time, Permanent
Overview:
First Military Recruitment are currently seeking a Test Technician on behalf of one of our clients.
This is an excellent opportunity for an ex-military engineer or service leaver looking to transfer their technical skills into a specialist civilian engineering environment, with the opportunity to develop a long-term career within the marine radar and navigation industry.
The successful candidate will be responsible for testing, fault-finding, rework and assembly of complex electromechanical equipment used within a specialist marine radar navigation product range.
Our client is particularly interested in individuals from Royal Navy Weapon Engineering, Radar, Communications, RAF Avionics, REME Electronics or similar technical backgrounds, where experience maintaining and troubleshooting complex equipment can be highly transferable.
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Carry out comprehensive testing, including RF testing, of electromechanical equipment.
- Undertake fault-finding, troubleshooting, rework and assembly.
- Work from engineering drawings, schematics and technical procedures.
- Complete soldering, wiring, crimping and detailed printed circuit board rework.
- Inspect work to ensure accuracy and quality standards are maintained.
- Identify faults and implement effective solutions.
- Assist with test documentation and Standard Operating Procedures.
- Raise defect reports and maintain accurate records.
- Work as part of a team, contributing to continuous improvement.
- Maintain a safe, organised and compliant working environment.
Skills and Qualifications:
- At least 2 years’ experience within an engineering or manufacturing environment.
- Previous experience with electronic or electromechanical equipment.
- RF testing and fault-finding experience would be advantageous.
- Ability to interpret technical drawings and schematics.
- Experience with soldering, wiring and electronic rework.
- Strong practical engineering and problem-solving skills.
- Good attention to detail and a methodical approach.
- Computer literacy, including Microsoft Word and Excel.
- Radar or communications equipment experience would be beneficial.
Career Development:
This role offers an excellent opportunity for an ex-military engineer to transfer their existing technical knowledge into a specialist civilian industry, developing further experience in RF testing, electronics and marine radar technology.
Why Apply?
A fantastic opportunity to utilise your military engineering experience, develop specialist technical skills and establish a long-term civilian engineering career.…
Vehicle Mechanic
MS735 – Vehicle Mechanic
Location: Swindon, Wiltshire
Salary: £30,000 – £37,000 Per Annum
Overview: First Military Recruitment are currently seeking an experienced car mechanic on behalf of one of our clients. The successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring all work completed is to the required standard of vehicles entrusted into their care.
Applications from ex-military candidates are actively encouraged, however all candidates will be given due consideration.
Duties and Responsibilities for the Vehicle Mechanic:
- Carrying out routine vehicle servicing, inspections and preventative maintenance
- Diagnosing mechanical and electrical faults using diagnostic equipment
- Completing repairs and replacing faulty or worn components
- Inspecting engines, transmissions, brakes, suspension and steering systems
- Carrying out MOT preparation and vehicle safety checks
- Identifying faults and recommending appropriate repairs
- Maintaining accurate service records and repair documentation.
- Using workshop tools, equipment and diagnostic systems safely.
Skills and Qualifications for the Vehicle Mechanic:
- Previous experience in a similar role
- Hold a level 3 qualification within vehicle maintenance
- Able to work as within a team as well as independently
- Valid driving licence
- Highly motivated
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Hydraulic Engineer
Hydraulic Engineer
Location: Dungannon, County Tyrone, N.Ireland
Salary: £15 – £15.50 per hour + Bonus and Overtime
Overview:
First Military Recruitment are currently seeking a Hydraulic Engineer on behalf of one of our clients.
Our client encourages applications from ex-military personnel however all candidates will be given due consideration.
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Assemble & build our range of ground support equipment using mechanical disciplines.
- Rigorously test products, setting and testing flows and pressures and ensuring best practise methods are used.
- Work together with the product development and design team to implement improvements as and when required.
- Working to set production targets
- Will need to have the ability to safely move production parts
- Working as part of a team to develop continuous improvement.
- Ensure compliance to all general site Rules, Regulations, Policies & Procedures
- Any other duties as required by management to suit business needs.
- Adherence to our ISO 9001 Quality management system.
- Adherence to company health and safety procedures.
- Maintain a clean and tidy works area
Skills and Qualifications:
- Previous experience working as a Hydraulic Fitter and fitting hydraulics in vehicles
- Be able to read and understand engineering drawings
- Must have a sound knowledge and understanding of hydraulics
- Must have knowledge of hydraulic cylinders, valves, pumps and motors
- Has proven literacy and numeracy skills
- Communication – Able to communicate problems/issues at all team members
- Initiative – Ability to work on their own or as part of their team
- Versatility/Adaptability – Ability to adjust to change e.g. job machine/process
- Problem Solving – Ability to fault find, trouble shoot, diagnose and resolve issues
- Quality – Comply with quality regulations & standards, attention to detail
Location: Dungannon, County Tyrone, N.Ireland
Salary: £15 – £15.50 per hour + Bonus and Overtime…
Global Head of Office & Administration
JS390 Global Head of Office & Administration
Location: London
Salary: £85,000 – £100,000 + Benefits
We are currently recruiting for a Global Head of Office and Administration for one of our global yet London based clients.
The company is seeking an experienced Global Head of Office & Administration to take responsibility for the effective management and coordination of its global office and administration functions.
Based at the London headquarters, the successful candidate will provide strategic oversight across the organisation’s international offices, ensuring consistent standards, effective processes and professionally managed working environments.
Reporting directly to the CEO, this is a senior position requiring a confident and commercially aware individual who can combine strong organisational leadership with a practical understanding of facilities, workplace operations and global administration.
The successful candidate will be a credible and highly organised professional with the confidence to operate at senior leadership level and the ability to build effective relationships across an international organisation.
They will be comfortable taking ownership, influencing stakeholders and driving consistency across multiple locations, while retaining a practical, hands-on approach to resolving operational challenges.
Professionalism, discretion, initiative and an uncompromising commitment to high standards will be essential.
Our client encourages applications from Ex-Military, although all qualified candidates will be considered.
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Provide overall oversight of office administration, facilities and workplace operations across the organisation’s international offices.
- Take responsibility for maintaining high standards across the London headquarters, including the management and development of the local administration and facilities team.
- Establish, implement and maintain consistent global office policies, procedures and operational standards.
- Oversee and coordinate office relocations, refurbishments, fit-outs and other workplace improvement projects.
- Manage facilities arrangements, maintenance requirements, external suppliers, contractors and service agreements.
- Work collaboratively with local office representatives to ensure facilities and administrative requirements are effectively managed across all locations.
- Build effective working relationships with the CEO, senior leadership, HR and Corporate Operations, providing support and guidance on workplace and administrative matters.
- Oversee relevant budgets, monitor expenditure and identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
- Ensure appropriate facilities, workplace and health and safety standards are maintained across the global office network.
- Identify and implement improvements to administrative processes, workplace services and the overall office environment.
Skills & Experience:
- Significant experience in a senior office management, global administration, facilities management, workplace operations or corporate services role.
- Proven experience overseeing multiple offices, ideally within an international organisation.
- Experience managing office relocations, refurbishments, fit-outs and facilities-related projects.
- Strong knowledge of facilities management, supplier relationships and workplace operations.
- Experience developing and implementing policies, procedures and consistent operational standards.
- Demonstrable leadership experience, including managing teams and coordinating activities across different locations.
- Confident engaging with senior stakeholders and operating directly with executive leadership.
- Strong organisational, communication and problem-solving skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities.
- Commercial awareness, including budget management, supplier negotiations and cost control.
- A proactive, adaptable and solutions-focused approach, with high personal and professional standards.
- Eligibility to work in the United Kingdom is essential.
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Plant Engineer
EH64 – Plant Engineer
Location: Salisbury
Salary: £33,000 – £38,480 + overtime + company vehicle
Working Hours: Monday to Friday 8am – 5pm
Overview:
This position would be excellent for someone with experience working on construction, plant, agricultural or groundcare machinery.
This role offers the opportunity to work on industry-leading machinery, develop technical skills through manufacturer-backed training and build a long-term career within a supportive team.
Our client encourages applications from ex-military personnel however all candidates will be given due consideration.
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Service, maintain and repair a range of construction and plant machinery.
- Diagnose faults across mechanical, hydraulic and electrical systems.
- Carry out on-site breakdown support and scheduled maintenance.
- Prepare new machinery for customer delivery.
- Complete inspections, service documentation and relevant paperwork.
- Provide excellent customer service and technical support.
- Carry out workshop-based maintenance, diagnostics and fault finding.
Skills and Qualifications:
- Experience working with construction, plant, agricultural or groundcare machinery.
- Knowledge of diesel engines, hydraulics, electrical systems and transmissions.
- Experience in diagnostics and fault finding.
- Strong problem-solving skills and a practical, hands-on approach.
- Good attention to detail and pride in delivering high standards of work.
- Customer-focused, with good communication skills.
- A willingness to undertake manufacturer training and develop technical expertise.
Benefits:
- Competitive salary.
- Fully expensed company service vehicle.
- Structured manufacturer training.
- Overtime opportunities.
- Ongoing career development and progression opportunities.
- Generous holiday allowance.
- Pension scheme.
- Employee wellbeing support.
- Virtual GP services.
- Charity volunteering days.
- Employee recognition programmes.
- Social events and team activities.
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