Working with Kodu: A Guide for Engineering and Design Candidates in 2026
Kodu is a UK-based staffing agency specializing in hardware engineering, science, and physical product design roles. They connect technical professionals with technology brands and consultancies. The most important thing to know is that Kodu acts as a bridge to specialized hiring managers, meaning your profile must explicitly highlight your technical project portfolio.
Who pays Kodu
Paid by the employer, not by you.
Kodu earns a fee from the company that hires you, usually a share of your first-year salary or a margin on your contract rate. Their client is that company.
What that means for you
Expect roles that fit their open vacancies before roles that fit your plan. Ask which company a role is for before your CV goes anywhere, and apply direct where you can.
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Sectors we track
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Markets we track
Source: JobMentis Agency Directory, 29,247 agencies across 102 markets, 2026.
Their side
Operates in
What specific roles and sectors does Kodu focus on?
Kodu focuses exclusively on the intersection of physical product development and engineering. They place candidates in roles ranging from mechanical and electrical engineering to industrial design and scientific research. Their client base consists primarily of technology brands and specialized design consultancies that require deep technical expertise rather than generalist skills.
Where you meet
How does the staffing process work from start to finish?
The process begins with a review of your technical portfolio and CV against current open mandates. If your skills align, a consultant will conduct an initial screening to discuss your career goals and the specific technical requirements of their clients. Once vetted, Kodu presents your profile to hiring managers and manages the interview scheduling, feedback loops, and final offer negotiations on your behalf.
What can I expect in terms of communication and exclusivity?
Expect a professional, project-based communication cadence where Kodu contacts you primarily when a role matches your specific technical niche. They do not typically require exclusivity, meaning you are free to pursue other opportunities simultaneously. Kodu is paid by the hiring company, so there is never a fee for candidates to use their services.
Your side
How can I effectively get on Kodu's radar?
To stand out, ensure your CV emphasizes specific hardware projects, technical stacks, and the tangible outcomes of your design work. Do not just list job titles, but detail the physical products you helped bring to market. If you have a portfolio website or GitHub repository, include these links prominently to demonstrate your practical engineering capabilities.
Is Kodu the right fit for my career search?
Kodu is an excellent partner if you are a specialist in hardware, engineering, or design looking for roles within product-focused technology companies. If your expertise lies in software-only development, marketing, or general business administration, you may find better success with agencies that have a broader scope. They are best suited for candidates who want a consultant to advocate for their specific technical niche.
How to work with Kodu: candidate playbook
- Highlight specific hardware projects and technical stacks on your CV.
- Provide a link to your design portfolio or technical project repository.
- Ask your consultant for feedback on your profile presentation before interviews.
- Confirm with your consultant before applying directly to roles they represent.
- Update your profile with Kodu whenever you complete a new technical certification.
Frequently asked questions
Should I apply directly to a company if I am also working with Kodu?
It is generally best to clarify this with your Kodu consultant first. If you apply directly to a role that Kodu has already submitted you for, it can create administrative conflicts that might disqualify your application.
What happens to my CV and personal data after I submit it?
Kodu stores your data in their secure candidate management system to match you against future openings. They are required to comply with UK data protection regulations, meaning they cannot share your details with a client without your explicit permission for each specific role.
How should I follow up if I do not hear back after an interview?
Wait at least 48 hours after the expected feedback window before reaching out. When you do follow up, keep your email brief and ask if there is any additional information or technical documentation the client needs to move the process forward.
What if I disagree with how Kodu presented my experience to a client?
Address this immediately with your consultant before the interview stage. Ask them to share the summary or profile they have prepared for you so you can ensure the technical highlights accurately reflect your actual project contributions.
Applying through Kodu?
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