Engineering Manager, Hardware

Who we are:

At DefSecIntel Solutions, we protect what matters by building systems that operate where failure is not an option.

We deliver combat-proven, end-user-driven defence and security solutions for Europe’s border security, defence, and critical infrastructure protection. Our platforms are designed for real operational environments and are already trusted in the field.

We develop, manufacture, and integrate mobile autonomous surveillance systems, unmanned surface vessels, and counter-UAS solutions, all connected through AI-powered command-and-control.

With a talented team of 70+ people, DefSecIntel is headquartered in Tallinn, Estonia, with additional manufacturing and maintenance capabilities in Ukraine.

We work closely with leading international partners including the EU and NATO, and contribute to major defence R&D programmes such as the European Defence Fund.

Join us to build mission-ready systems for today’s needs and tomorrow’s challenges, and help shape the future of Europe’s security.

We are looking for an Engineering Manager who combines strong technical expertise with inspiring people leadership to shape the future of our Hardware Engineering team. This is a unique opportunity to build structures, influence technical direction, and make a lasting impact in a fast-growing defence technology company with ambitious goals, a diverse product portfolio, and the freedom to turn your vision into reality.

What you will be doing:

• Collaborate with executive leadership and product management to define company goals and ensure effective execution within engineering

• Design, evaluate, and guide architectural direction and cross-team technical solutions, including reviewing and approving technical proposals and key technology decisions while ensuring system reliability, scalability, and long-term sustainability

• Promote engineering excellence by establishing best practices, standards, and engineering processes, while balancing innovation, delivery commitments, and technical debt

• Lead, mentor, and develop Engineering team members by setting clear expectations, providing regular feedback, supporting career growth, and strengthening leadership capabilities across teams

• Support engineering talent acquisition, retention, and succession planning, while fostering an inclusive, collaborative, and trust-based work environment

• Ensure the timely delivery of high-quality, reliable hardware across multiple teams and product areas by monitoring progress, risks, dependencies, and delivery performance

• Partner closely with Product, Hardware, and Business Development teams to drive effective cross-functional collaboration and knowledge sharing.

What we are looking for:

• Proven experience leading engineering/hardware development teams in a complex product environment

• Strong people leadership skills, with experience in mentoring and building high-performing teams

• A solid engineering background in mechanical engineering, electronics, or mechatronics, with with the technical credibility to guide architectural discussions and strategic engineering decisions

• Strong understanding of engineering development processes, tools, and best practices, with the ability to improve how teams work without becoming a hands-on specialist

• Experience managing cross-functional collaboration and aligning multiple stakeholders around shared objectives

• Ability to balance delivery, innovation, quality, and technical debt in a fast-paced product development environment

• Excellent communication skills, with the confidence to engage both technical teams and senior leadership

• Experience with full product development lifecycles is highly valued

What we offer:

• Meaningful work that supports our mission to create a safer and more secure world

• The opportunity to work with a talented team and contribute to the development of innovative technologies and solutions

• Flexibility in how and where you work, depending on role and project needs

• Opportunities for professional growth and skills development as the company and projects evolve

• Recognition for helping grow the team through employee referrals

• A focus on employee well-being, including access to health- and sports-related benefits

• Social activities and team events that strengthen collaboration and team spirit