Automotive Design Engineer

We are the internal recruitment partner for our client, a globally recognised leader in high-performance fluid transfer systems, supplying the automotive, motor sport, motorcycle, defence, and industrial sectors. With operations across the UK, USA, Mexico, and Europe.

We’re looking for a passionate and detail-driven Automotive Design Engineer to join the engineering team based in Exeter. This is a fantastic opportunity to work on cutting-edge projects supporting leading OEMs and world-renowned automotive brands, with clear progression opportunities within a growing and innovative environment.

• Owning engineering activities from initial feasibility through to production sign-off, ensuring safety and compliance at all times
• Supporting commercial and project activities to ensure delivery on‑time, on‑quality and on‑budget
• Acting as a key engineering contact for customers and stakeholders, responding to technical queries and attending technical reviews
• Interpreting customer requirements and translating them into engineering solutions and project scopes
• Creating and managing CAD models and detailed manufacturing drawings (Solid Works or equivalent)
• Supporting quotation activities, reviewing customer drawings and preparing technical input
• Collaborating with cross‑functional teams including manufacturing, R&D, and testing
• Applying engineering best practice, design standards, and continuous improvement principles
• Supporting product validation, verification, and documentation in line with relevant standards
• Identifying cost reduction opportunities through design and manufacturing improvements
• Participating in customer visits and occasional site travel

• Experience with in a design‑led engineering role
• Strong interest or enthusiasm for automotive or motor sport industries
• Ability to interpret technical drawings and customer requirements
• Experience with CAD software (Solid Works or similar) and engineering documentation
• Understanding of mechanical design principles, ideally within fluid transfer systems or vehicle applications
• Exposure to quality frameworks such as ISO
  9001 or IATF
  16949 (advantageous)
• Excellent attention to detail with a proactive, methodical approach to problem solving
• Strong communication skills with the ability to work across multiple stakeholders
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities effectively
• Degree in Engineering is desirable but not essential – relevant hands‑on experience will be considered

• Competitive salary, depending on skills and experience.
• Pension Scheme
• Working hours – 8:30am – 5pm Monday to Thursday and 8:30am – 2:30pm Friday
• 20 days holiday plus bank holidays and Christmas closure

This role offers a high level of autonomy, the opportunity to work on exciting OEM projects, and a clear path for progression within a supportive and forward‑thinking engineering team.