I need an electronics engineer

I am designing a new Tig welding Torch switch. I am looking to replace a 50 mm in length linear (slide) potentiometer with some type of pressure pad (see image). I would like the user to apply pressure to a pad that would then vary resistance from 1K Ohm to 10 K Ohm. The complete package must be no larger than 70 mm long by 40 mm wide