Position: Full-time, Permanent Location: Ferndown, Dorset Salary Range: £70,000- £80,000 depending on experience Hybrid working options available About Us: About The Organisation RCV Engines Limited have been developing and manufacturing their patented Rotary Valve internal combustion engines since 1997. Having exported engines to over 50 countries, provided development and production engines to international customers and established licensing agreements we maintain our exceptional reputation for creating innovative technology. Our solutions provide unique advantages in many small engine application areas including Unmanned Vehicles (UVs), handheld garden tools and portable generators. Why Work for Us Based in Ferndown, Dorset you would be joining RCV Engines Limited at an energizing phase of development. Having already achieved double digit growth since its start up, the Company is entering an exciting period of volume production, having achieved further investment, secured and developed relationships with partners and in the process of winning new orders from an international customer base. Our People are the beating heart of the organisation, we encourage everyone to play a full part in helping to achieve our aims and objectives. We foster a culture that warmly welcomes ideas and innovations from all. About the Role: Role Overview Reporting to the CEO the Chief Engineer will fulfill the role of Chief Engineer and in turn lead a small team of engineers. Covering the development of new technology and applications, NPI and ongoing development working in close collaboration, and in line with customer requirements. RCV employs highly qualified engineers and has an in-house prototype manufacturing facility. They utilise Computer Aided Design software including AutoCAD and PTC Creo and have access to leading engine analytical techniques including Ricardo Wave, Computational Fluid Dynamics, (CFD) and Finite Element Analysis (FEA) through an established supply base. Responsibilities Responsibilities of the role include but are not limited to: To lead the small engineering team ensuring they are on track and delivering to the company goals and objectives. The role will involve leading R&D, Design, Engineering/Testing of new and current engines and spares. To define stakeholder and system requirements, making product design proposals that fulfill agreed specifications. To take ownership of projects, monitoring and driving progress towards agreed completion targets, communicating issues as they arise to all relevant stakeholders. To fulfil the role of Leader, working with the SLT on strategic alignment, managing and supporting colleagues, sharing knowledge and suggesting improvements. To take an active role in company initiatives such as Continuous Improvement, Quality initiatives and new manufacturing systems and processes as they are introduced or outsourced to suppliers. To carry out or manage computer analysis (FEA/CFD etc.) To understand the capabilities and limitations of such processes at the leading edge of the design process. To manage external consultancies carrying out such processes and manage the input of the results into the RCV design process. To support ISO compliance and with the improvement and development of manufacturing techniques for new and existing products whilst working closely with all associated functions and personnel. Maintain frequent contact with customers, answering technical queries and defining requirements for new projects. Plus take an active role in the promotion of new and existing products. Ensure that the test house equipment is suitable for purpose. Continuing your own professional development to ensure that you are aware of relevant statutory requirements, technological advancements or best practice applicable to your role. Maintain a clean and safe working environment by ensuring the workplace is consistent with the company’s health and safety policy. Skills And Experience Education A first degree or equivalent in Mechanical Engineering or related subject ideally with post graduate qualification / or apprentice trained/qualified by experience within the specific field of combustion engines. Working towards / achieved relevant Chartered status (CEng) is advantageous. Essential Proven leadership experience as a Mechanical Design Engineer, Technical Lead, Principal Engineer or Chief Engineer working in the manufacturing/engineering and/or consultancy sector where New Product Introduction, Design and Test are core for rapid innovation. Significant knowledge of combustion engine design is essential (rotary, turbine knowledge). Ensure that appropriate individual targets and objectives are set and monitored in line with the Company’s PDR system/appraisal processes. Able to plan and prioritise work within the test facility ensuring timely delivery. Relevant experience in the use of and interpretation of results from FEA and CFD is essential. Experience of setting up and monitoring mechanical tests such as strength, durability, environmental etc. IT literacy to an intermediate level. Desirable Having led engineering teams through the achievement of KPIs. Take responsibility for hiring new staff and provide technical guidance and mentoring to further develop the team. Significant experience of working within formal configuration control systems is desirable. Personal Attributes Valid UK driving license advantageous Our benefits include: 25 days annual leave per year (plus bank holidays) Pension Scheme Free Parking onsite Hybrid working opportunities