Lead Python Software Engineer

Job Title: Lead Python Software Engineer
Location: Newcastle (Hybrid WFH Available)
Salary: Up to £75,000 + benefits

KO2 Embedded Recruitment Solutions is proud to partner with a leading innovator in the smart industrial automation sector. Due to sustained growth and exciting new projects, our client is expanding their software development team and is now seeking a Lead Python Software Engineer to play a critical role in designing and delivering scalable, real-time software solutions.

The Role: As a Lead Python Software Engineer, you will take ownership of core backend development efforts, leading a small, agile team. You will be instrumental in architecting and building software systems that interface with real-time data sources and power intelligent automation platforms. This is a hands-on leadership position where you’ll balance technical delivery with mentorship and team coordination.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Lead the design, development, and deployment of robust, scalable backend systems using Python and microservices architecture
  • Oversee code quality, testing, and DevOps practices to ensure continuous delivery
  • Collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams, including hardware engineers and data scientists
  • Mentor and support junior developers and contribute to a high-performance engineering culture
  • Implement software solutions for real-time data processing in an industrial environment
  • Drive adoption of best practices in CI/CD, infrastructure automation, and system monitoring

Key Skills and Experience:

  • Proven experience developing production-grade applications in Python
  • Working knowledge of C# for system integration and legacy support
  • Strong understanding of microservices architecture and containerization
  • Proficient in Linux environments for development and deployment
  • Hands-on experience with DevOps tools, ideally in an Azure cloud environment
  • Excellent problem-solving and leadership skills

Desirable:

  • Background in industrial automation, IoT, or embedded systems
  • Familiarity with protocols used in industrial environments
  • Experience with modern data pipelines or event-driven architectures

What’s on Offer:

  • Competitive salary and benefits package
  • Flexible working hours and hybrid options
  • Career growth in a cutting-edge technology environment
  • A chance to influence and shape the direction of next-gen automation platforms

To apply, please contact KO2 Embedded Recruitment Solutions or send your CV directly to us today!

Quality Engineer

Quality Engineer

Salary: £35,000

Location: Wigan (office-based, full-time)

KO2’s client, a growing electronics manufacturing and design business based in Wigan, is now at a pivotal point in their development. Due to continued growth and increased production demand, they are seeking a Quality Engineer to take ownership of the documentation and inspection processes that ensure their high standards are consistently met.

This is a fantastic opportunity to join a business where quality is at the heart of everything they do, and where your work will have a direct impact on product performance, customer satisfaction, and compliance with international standards.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Develop and maintain clear, detailed work instructions to support assembly teams in producing high-quality products.
  • Implement inspection and testing procedures across the manufacturing process, collaborating with engineers on test rig development.
  • Gather and report quality metrics to identify areas for improvement and track ongoing progress.
  • Maintain ISO 9001 documentation, and work closely with external auditors and consultants to ensure ongoing compliance.
  • Collaborate with engineering and manufacturing teams to refine assembly processes.
  • Conduct visual inspections of completed products and approve prior to release.
  • Review and verify drawings before delivery to customers.
  • Support the development and structure of engineering documentation to enhance data resilience and IT robustness.
  • Program and operate an Automatic Optical Inspection (AOI) machine for PCB quality checks (full training provided).

Ideal Candidate Profile:

  • Background in engineering with a strong focus on quality assurance.
  • Detail-oriented mindset and methodical approach to documentation and inspection.
  • Understanding of ISO 9001 requirements and experience in maintaining compliance.
  • Excellent communication and collaboration skills, especially when working cross-functionally.

This is an on-site role in Wigan with a close-knit team in a business that values precision, innovation, and continuous improvement.

Junior Electronics Engineer

Job Title: Junior Electronics Engineer
Location: Wigan
Salary: Up to £35,000

KO2 is working on behalf of a long-standing client in the Wigan area, a specialist in the design and development of cutting-edge electronic products for a range of industries. Due to continued growth and the successful delivery of multiple new projects, they are now looking to add a Junior Electronics Engineer to their expanding R&D team.

About the Role:

This is an excellent opportunity for a Junior Electronics Engineer with 1 to 3 years of industry experience to further develop their skills in a hands-on, small team collaborative environment. You’ll work across the full product development lifecycle—from concept through to production—alongside a team of experienced engineers developing innovative and reliable electronic systems.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Assist in the design, development, and testing of electronic circuits and systems
  • Support schematic capture and PCB layout design
  • Perform debugging, fault-finding, and root cause analysis on hardware
  • Collaborate with firmware, mechanical, and production teams
  • Contribute to documentation, design reviews, and technical reports

Skills & Experience Required:

  • Degree in Electronics Engineering or a related discipline
  • 1 to 3 years of industry experience in an electronics engineering role
  • Solid understanding of analog and digital circuit design
  • Experience with PCB design tools (e.g., Altium, KiCad, Eagle)
  • Experience using lab equipment (oscilloscopes, signal generators, etc.)

Desirable (but not essential):

  • Exposure to EMC compliance, design for manufacture, or design for test
  • Familiarity with microcontrollers and embedded systems
  • Previous involvement in taking products from concept to production

What’s on Offer:

  • Mentorship and ongoing development in a growing engineering team
  • Involvement in varied projects across multiple sectors

This role is ideal for someone early in their electronics career looking to gain deeper experience in an industrial product development setting.

Apply today with an up to date CV to KO2 Embedded Recruitment Solutions.

Junior Electronics Software Engineer

Junior Electronics Software Engineer – Sheffield (Hybrid) – £30,000 to £38,000

KO2’s client is looking for a Junior Electronics Software Engineer who’s more than just technically capable — they’re obsessed with solving problems. If you took everything apart as a kid (and sometimes managed to put it back together), this might be your perfect next step.

You’ll be working closely with a seasoned R&D engineer and classic hands-on tinkerer who’s built everything from PCBs to control algorithms. He is looking to pass on his knowledge before retirement, so this is your chance to learn directly from someone who’s done it all – if you’ve got the curiosity and resilience to keep up.

This hybrid role, based in Sheffield, is ideal for someone with 2–3 years of experience as an electronics engineer or embedded software engineer, a strong academic background, and a passion for solving real-world engineering challenges.

What you’ll be doing:

  • Supporting and learning from a true all-rounder who handles electronics, software, and control
  • Helping to design, build and develop video product lines used in cutting-edge systems
  • Applying your physics knowledge – especially in magnetism, electrical control, or transformers
  • Developing your skills in both embedded systems and broader R&D
  • Taking raw ideas and turning them into practical, engineered solutions

We’re looking for someone who:

  • Has 2–3 years of experience as an embedded software engineer or electronics engineer
  • Holds a strong degree in electronics, mechatronics, or a similar discipline
  • Can demonstrate a passion for building, fixing, hacking, or solving – robotics, audio, automation, whatever gets your gears turning
  • Can handle feedback and thrive in a no-nonsense, real engineering environment
  • Is eager to grow into a multi-skilled electronics engineer capable of handling everything from embedded software to PCB work

If you can show us you’ve thought deeply about systems and have the drive to keep learning, we’ll teach you the rest. You don’t need to be a finished article — we’re looking for a sharp, passionate embedded software engineer who’s ready to roll up their sleeves and absorb everything Roy knows.

This is a unique opportunity to grow into a true multidisciplinary electronics engineer. If your idea of fun includes debugging code, solving control problems, or building automated gadgets in your spare time, we want to hear from you.

Apply now and take your next step as an embedded software engineer with one of Sheffield’s most technically diverse engineering teams.

Electronic Software Team Leader

Electronics Software Team Leader – Sheffield (Hybrid) – £55,000

KO2’s client is hiring an Electronics Software Team Leader to guide a small but growing multidisciplinary team, combining embedded software know-how with real-world control design. This hybrid role, based in Sheffield, offers a fantastic opportunity to influence future technology in a business that’s moving quickly towards connected systems and smarter infrastructure.

We’re looking for an experienced electronics engineer who brings strong hands-on skills in embedded software, plus some exposure to PLC programming and practical control system design. You’ll be the go-to person for mentoring junior team members, code reviews, and setting up clear engineering processes, while still staying technically active.

The ideal candidate is someone who understands how to deliver real-world solutions – not just from a textbook – and who’s excited about shaping a team and product roadmap as we move toward more cloud-connected, intelligent systems.

Your responsibilities:

  • Lead and support a team of engineers working across embedded software and electronics
  • Design, review, and maintain embedded software for control systems
  • Review and support PLC code development, particularly structured text
  • Bring practical experience in whole-system control design – not just isolated components
  • Collaborate cross-functionally with electrical, mechanical, and operations teams
  • Establish and improve software release and quality processes

What we’re looking for:

  • A strong background as an electronics engineer with commercial embedded software experience
  • Some familiarity with PLC systems – ideally with experience reviewing or modifying code in a structured environment
  • Someone who’s built or contributed to the control design of full systems (not just programming within a narrow scope)
  • A passion for mentoring and leading other engineers – this isn’t just a management role, it’s hands-on too
  • Good communication skills, and a practical, pragmatic approach to engineering challenges

While this role has a leadership aspect, it’s also a great fit for a senior electronics engineer who’s ready to step up and shape a team. If you’ve got experience with embedded software, know your way around a PLC, and are comfortable working across hardware and software, we want to hear from you.

This is a genuinely exciting time to join KO2’s client. With support from experienced leadership and a clear vision for the future, you’ll be in a great position to build something meaningful – and bring your full skillset to the table.

If you’re an electronics engineer looking to step into a team leadership role while staying close to the code and making real impact in PLC, embedded software, and control system design, apply now.

Head of Electronics

Head of Electronics – Sheffield – Up to £80,000

Are you a hands-on electronics leader looking to shape the future of hardware in a high-impact, cross-functional role?

KO2’s client hiring a Head of Electronics to lead a growing engineering function in Sheffield. This isn’t just about setting strategy from a distance – it’s a true player-coach role where you’ll combine technical expertise with team leadership, owning both delivery and direction.

You’ll take responsibility for the hardware engineering team, currently spanning electronics, mechanical design, and testing. While the focus is on electronics, the scope is broader – you’ll be leading a multidisciplinary team, managing OKRs, setting priorities, and getting involved at the board level when needed.

This is a great opportunity for someone who thrives in fast-paced, collaborative environments and wants to take a hands-on role in both the design and the decision-making.

What you’ll be doing:

  • Leading and growing the hardware function, with a strong emphasis on delivery and quality
  • Acting as a key contributor in electronics design – testing, building, and problem-solving alongside your team
  • Managing day-to-day activity across electronics, test, mechanical, and technician functions
  • Ensuring compliance and documentation for EMC, safety, and regulatory standards
  • Bridging across software, firmware, and operations to ensure seamless product development
  • Making smart, informed decisions around integration, production, and components

What we’re looking for:

  • A strong background in hardware design, especially within complex electronics systems
  • Experience leading and developing engineering teams with a structured, hands-on style
  • A system-level mindset – comfortable aligning mechanical, software, and electronics workstreams
  • Familiarity with regulatory testing and EMC certification
  • Someone confident, collaborative, and technically credible who can get stuck in and guide others

This isn’t a role for someone looking to stay purely technical or purely managerial. We’re seeking someone who blends both – capable of setting direction but also happy to roll up their sleeves in the electronics lab when needed.

You’ll be joining at a pivotal moment, with the outgoing Head of Electronics committed to a smooth handover before retirement. That makes this a rare opportunity to take ownership of a well-established function with real momentum behind it.

If you’re ready to step into a leadership role while staying connected to the electronics work you love, we’d love to hear from you

SMT / SMD Technician

SMT / SMD Technician
Halifax | £30,000 to £32,000 | Permanent

KO2’s client, a well-respected electronics manufacturer based in Halifax, is seeking an experienced SMT / SMD Technician to take responsibility for the daily operation of their Surface Mount production lines. This role is vital to ensuring the efficient and high-quality output of the SMT / SMD lines in line with production targets and departmental quality standards.

Reporting directly to the Operations Manager, the successful candidate will also support the R&D department when required. The business is currently operating two full SMT / SMD lines: one mature line using Juki equipment and a newer Europlacer line introduced in late 2024, which is in the process of being fully commissioned.

The ideal candidate will bring strong hands-on experience with SMT / SMD machinery, including Juki and/or Europlacer programmable pick and place equipment, and will be confident working with minimal supervision. This is a key role within the production team, especially as the current technician transitions toward retirement and is currently unavailable.

Key Responsibilities
Operate and maintain SMT / SMD production equipment including pick and place machines, reflow ovens, screen printers and AOI systems
Perform troubleshooting, component identification and first-off inspections
Carry out rework and soldering using industry best practices
Program, set up and monitor SMT / SMD equipment to meet daily schedules
Support and train operators, maintain performance data and assist with equipment maintenance
Contribute to the development and testing of R&D samples and prototype builds
Support Quality Control with repairs and quarantined items

Qualifications and Experience

Minimum 5 years’ experience in a similar SMT / SMD technician role
Desirable to hold an HNC/HND or degree in electronics, electrical or manufacturing disciplines
Experience using Juki or Europlacer equipment
Familiarity with IPC standards and soldering techniques
Competent in problem-solving, attention to detail and managing workloads independently
Basic computer skills and working knowledge of Google suite

Additional Information
Working hours are 7:00 to 17:00 Monday to Wednesday and 7:00 to 16:30 on Thursday, with no work on Fridays. This equates to a 37.5-hour working week including a 30-minute unpaid lunch break each day.
Annual leave entitlement is 150 hours plus bank holidays.

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced SMT / SMD Technician looking to take ownership of a critical part of the production process within a growing and well-equipped facility.

To apply or for more information, please contact KO2 Recruitment.

Program Manager

Program Manager

Location: Leeds, UK (Hybrid – 2–3 days in-office)

Salary: Up to £80,000 + Bonus

Contract: Full-time, Permanent

Are you an experienced Program Manager with a background in technology product development? Do you thrive in fast-paced, cross-functional environments and have a passion for delivering complex new product initiatives?

About KO2’s Client:

KO2’s client is a growing force in the European consumer telecommunications space, delivering innovative connectivity and digital products to households nationwide. With an emphasis on high-quality user experiences and rapid time-to-market, they’re now expanding their project delivery capability with the addition of a skilled Program Manager.

The Role:

You’ll take ownership of high-impact, multi-disciplinary programs – guiding them from concept through to manufacturing. You will work with engineering, product, commercial, and operations teams to ensure smooth execution and alignment with strategic objectives. You’ll also be the bridge between internal teams and external stakeholders, including customers.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Manage the full lifecycle of technology product development projects, from concept through to manufacturing
  • Lead large, cross-functional teams in an indirect management environment
  • Plan and execute complex new product development programs across hardware and software teams
  • Engage with both internal and customer-facing stakeholders to ensure alignment and satisfaction
  • Understand and support the development-to-manufacture process in high-volume production environments
  • Deliver high-quality documentation and updates, including reports, presentations, and meetings
  • Promote business awareness and ensure program goals align with overall corporate accountability and product strategy

Key Requirements:

  • Proven success managing technology product development projects end-to-end, including customer interaction
  • Experience leading multi-disciplinary teams, ideally in a consumer electronics or telecoms setting
  • Strong background in stakeholder management, both internal and external
  • Deep understanding of the development-to-manufacturing process, optimising for time to market
  • Solid understanding of both hardware and software development disciplines
  • Excellent interpersonal, communication, presentation, and reporting skills
  • Business-aware, with a strong sense of product, project, and corporate priorities

Why Join KO2’s Client?

  • Hybrid work model with flexibility and work-life balance
  • Be part of an experienced team where your contributions have a direct impact
  • Competitive salary and benefits package
  • Exciting opportunities for long-term growth and professional development

Apply today with your CV and a short cover letter.

Electronic Test Engineer

Position: Electronics Test Engineer
Location: Stockport
Salary: £28,000 to £35,000

An exciting opportunity has opened up for an electronics test engineer to join a growing electronics business based in Stockport. With a strong presence in the sensor and embedded systems market, and a recent expansion into major international projects including in the USA, the company offers a hands-on, rewarding environment for those with a passion for electronics.

This role is ideally suited to a junior candidate looking to build a career in electronics, but applications from experienced electronics test engineers are also welcomed. You’ll work closely with a team producing a wide range of systems, from low-level microcontroller-based products to more complex embedded and Linux-based applications.

As an electronics test engineer, you will be responsible for testing PCBs, conducting end-of-line testing, and diagnosing faults from returned field units. You’ll use tools such as multimeters, oscilloscopes, and spectrum analysers to carry out repair to component level and verify products before they are shipped.

Expect a hands-on environment where you’ll spend time on the shop floor, working directly with test rigs, custom equipment, wiring looms, and more. From basic sensors to multi-layer boards and high-volume systems, the testing work covers a wide spectrum. There is also an opportunity to design and build test jigs and equipment tailored to the company’s diverse product range.

This is a full-time onsite position based in Stockport. The company has a strong culture of progression, and this role offers a genuine pathway into more advanced engineering roles or the chance to remain technical and hands-on as a specialist electronics test engineer.

If you are a curious and practical individual looking to make your mark as an electronics test engineer, KO2 would love to hear from you.

Embedded Software Engineer

Embedded Software Engineer | Birmingham

KO2’s client, a Birmingham-based engineering business involved in high-profile and confidential projects, is looking to add an Embedded Software Engineer to their team. This is a rare opportunity to be part of a company that is pushing the boundaries in their field, working on cutting-edge technology that remains strictly behind closed doors.

Due to the sensitive nature of the work, the successful candidate will be required to work onsite in Birmingham. The role offers the chance to contribute to technically complex systems in a highly skilled engineering team.

The ideal candidate will have a strong academic background, with a 1st class degree, Masters or PhD in a relevant engineering or science discipline. Commercial experience in C or C++ within embedded systems is essential. Candidates will also need to demonstrate a solid understanding of embedded hardware, with hands-on experience working with CANbus and RF systems being highly desirable.

Key skills and experience required:

  • Embedded C or C++ in a real-time environment
  • CANbus systems experience
  • Exposure to RF systems
  • Strong academic background (1st, Masters or PhD)
  • Comfortable working full-time onsite in Birmingham

This role would suit an engineer who enjoys working close to hardware and wants to be part of a technically advanced team on meaningful and impactful engineering projects.

If you’re interested in hearing more about this opportunity, please get in touch to discuss in further detail and apply today with an up to date CV.