Product Design Engineering Lead

At ETEL, we design and manufacture power distribution solutions that support critical infrastructure across New Zealand and internationally. We're looking for an experienced Product Design Engineering Lead to lead the development of our switchgear and integrated substation product portfolio, driving technical innovation, product performance, and engineering capability across the business.

You'll provide technical leadership across MV and LV switchgear, integrated kiosk substations, and associated transformer solutions, driving the development of next-generation products with a focus on safety, reliability, and arc fault performance.

About the role

Reporting to the Head of Engineering, you'll lead a team of Product Design Engineers while overseeing the design, development, and continuous improvement of ETEL's switchgear and integrated substation product line.

This is a hands-on leadership role that combines technical expertise, product development, project delivery, and people leadership. Working closely with Sales, Manufacturing, Procurement, Quality and Planning, you'll ensure customer requirements are translated into safe, compliant, and commercially successful solutions.

What you’ll be doing

• Lead the design, development, and continuous improvement of ETEL's switchgear and integrated substation product portfolio
• Drive new product development, including arc-rated kiosk substation solutions
• Provide technical leadership, coaching, and support to the engineering team
• Establish and maintain product standards, specifications, and engineering governance
• Oversee engineering input into tenders, customer projects, and product development initiatives
• Ensure designs, testing, and documentation meet customer and regulatory requirements
• Lead compliance, verification, and type testing activities
• Drive standardisation, innovation, and continuous improvement
• Manage engineering priorities, resources, risks, and project delivery outcomes
• Foster a high-performing culture focused on safety, quality, and customer outcomes

What you’ll bring

• Degree-qualified Electrical Engineer or equivalent experience
• Significant experience in MV and LV switchgear design and development
• Strong understanding of switchgear systems, protection, control, and power distribution networks
• Experience with integrated kiosk substations or similar packaged power solutions
• Knowledge of arc fault mitigation and containment principles
• Strong understanding of relevant IEC and AS/NZS standards
• Proven experience leading engineering teams and technical projects
• Strong stakeholder management, communication, and problem-solving skills
• Commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement

Desirable:

• Internal arc testing or arc-resistant switchgear design experience
• Product development experience from concept through to production
• Knowledge of transformer integration within packaged substations
• Experience with protection relays, SCADA, and automation systems
• Familiarity with SolidWorks, PDM, Epicor, LiquidPlanner, or similar systems
• Manufacturing or industrial engineering experience

What sets you apart

• Strong technical leadership and credibility
• Strategic thinker with a practical, solutions-focused approach
• Ability to influence and collaborate across multiple functions
• Continuous improvement mindset
• Strong customer focus and commercial awareness
• Passion for developing people and building team capability

Why ETEL

At ETEL, you'll join a business that values collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement. This is an opportunity to lead a critical engineering function, shape the future of ETEL's switchgear and integrated substation products, and make a meaningful impact on our customers, people, and business.

We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone feels respected, supported, and able to do their best work.

Applicants must be eligible to work in New Zealand and currently reside here.

Ready to lead the future of ETEL's switchgear and integrated substation product portfolio? Apply now.