Find the people who actually deliver

Hiring in technology and engineering isn’t about volume. It’s about finding the right people – those who understand complex environments and can turn plans into results.

Octagon Group helps organisations find great candidates across technology, engineering, manufacturing and commercial functions. We work as a specialist talent partner for businesses that can’t afford to get hiring wrong.

Talk to a hiring specialist

Who we help

We partner with technology-led organisations that are:

Scaling teams or launching

new products

Replacing hard-to-hire or

business-critical roles

Under pressure to improve

speed, quality or delivery

Tired of CV volume without

real shortlists

Whether you need people in permanent engineering roles, contractors or senior leaders, our focus is always the same:

people who can deliver in your environment.

Specialist recruitment across technology and engineering

We support hiring across multiple technical and commercial disciplines, including:

  • Semiconductor engineer recruitment
  • Embedded systems and software recruitment
  • Electronics engineering recruitment
  • Photonics recruitment
  • Manufacturing engineering and manufacturing manager recruitment
  • Engineering contractor hire for short-term or project-based needs
  • Technical sales recruitment and commercial leadership roles

 

Our consultants specialise by vertical, so you’re always working with someone who understands the technology, the market and the role.

Explore consultants by vertical

How our talent search works

A structured approach that reduces risk and saves time

Understand the need

We go beyond job descriptions to understand technical depth, delivery expectations and team context.

Target the right market

We identify and engage relevant talent, including specialists who aren’t actively applying to job boards.

Qualify properly

Candidates are screened
for technical capability, problem-solving approach, communication ans
long-term fit.

Deliver a shortlist

You receive a small
number of well-matched candidates to your unique requirements, not a pile
of CVs.

Support through to hire

We manage interviews, feedback, offers and onboarding to keep momentum high, and pressure on you low.

Engagement models

Different roles require different levels of focus, priority and market coverage. At Octagon Group, we offer structured recruitment services designed to match the complexity, urgency and impact of each hire from clearly defined roles to senior, specialist searches.

Our approach covers both contingent and retained recruitment, with service levels that scale based on what the role demands. Rather than pushing a one-size-fits-all model, we’ll recommend the right setup for your situation.

Explore our recruitment services and delivery packages

Common hiring questions

How long does it take to hire an engineer?

Timelines vary by discipline, seniority and market conditions. On average, most engineering hires take between 4–8 weeks, though specialist or senior roles may take longer. Our structured approach is designed to reduce wasted time and improve shortlist quality.

What are engineering recruitment fees in the UK?

Fees depend on role complexity and engagement model. In the UK, recruitment fees typically range from 18–25% of salary, with retained searches priced differently. We’re transparent about engineering recruitment fees UK clients can expect and explain what level of service is included.

How do you find engineering candidates who aren’t actively looking?

Many of the strongest engineers aren’t applying to job boards. We use our extensive database, plus targeted search, referral networks and direct outreach within specific technical verticals to find engineering candidates who are already performing in similar environments. This approach gives clients access to a much broader and higher-quality talent pool.

Should I choose retained or contingent recruitment?

That depends on the importance, urgency and complexity of the hire. Contingent recruitment can work well for clearly defined roles with wider talent availability. Retained recruitment is often better for senior, specialist or hard-to-hire positions where focus, market coverage and discretion matter most. We’ll advise on retained vs contingent recruitment based on your situation, not a fixed preference.

Can you support both permanent and contract engineering hires?

Yes. We support permanent recruitment as well as engineering contractor hire for short-term projects, urgent gaps or specialist needs. The level of service and delivery focus is tailored to the role, whether you’re building long-term capability or solving an immediate resourcing challenge.

Why work with Octagon Group

  • Deep specialisation across technology and engineering markets
  • Consultants aligned by vertical, not generalist recruiters
  • Access to passive talent, not just active applicants
  • Clear communication and reporting throughout the process
  • Proven track record across the UK and the US with repeat clients

 

Most agencies send CVs. We solve hiring problems.

Let’s power the future together

Whether you’re scaling a team, replacing a key role or planning ahead, the right conversation can save weeks of wasted effort.

If you’re looking for an engineering recruitment partner in the UK or US, tell us what you’re aiming to achieve, and we’ll help you work out the smartest next step.

Fill the form below, or simply email us at info@octagongroup.co.uk or call at 01525 306 225.