Programme Lead – AR5

About the role

You will lead a small team of Forward Deployed Engineers operating at customer sites worldwide. The focus is operational – ensuring readiness, smooth mission execution and acting as a trusted partner for the customer on the ground.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and support a small team of engineers in live operational environments.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for customers on‑site and off‑site, managing day‑to‑day operations under pressure.
• Ensure system readiness, operational continuity and compliance with safety standards.
• Coordinate with internal engineering, logistics and other teams to resolve issues and anticipate needs.
• Report on operational performance, incidents and lessons learned.
• Foster a high‑performing, adaptable team culture in demanding field settings.

Required profile

• Proven experience leading technical, operational or customer‑facing teams.
• Strong communication and stakeholder‑management abilities.
• Comfortable making decisions in dynamic, high‑pressure situations.
• Willingness to travel regularly.
• Organised, accountable and calm under pressure.
• Nice to have: background in avionics, electronics or systems integration; experience in defence, aerospace, UAV or critical infrastructure sectors; familiarity with military or government operational environments.

Required skills

What we offer

• An excellent work environment with the opportunity to make a difference.
• Salary compatible with level of proven experience.
• Daily shuttle service from Leiria and Lisbon.