Lead Design Engineer​/Manager

Our client is the UK’s market leader in the manufacture of customer‑focused vehicles mounted equipment. We are seeking a Lead Principal Design Engineer / Manager to take ownership of the mechanical design function at a management level reporting into the Technical Director. This is a lead role, managing a small mechanical design team while remaining technically “hands‑on” to ensure the design and engineering integrity of every vehicle that leaves the site.

As the Lead Design Engineer, you must have Fabrication expertise in sheet metal and platework ideally.

• Design Excellence:
  Design & Develop concepts & Prototypes and feasilbility modellings. Create and oversee comprehensive part, assembly, and installation drawings. You will be the final gatekeeper for quality, cost, and performance targets.
• Leadership & Mentorship:
  Manage a small team of designers with a dedicated focus on professional development-mentoring them in technical standards, fabrication logic, and industry best practices.
• Lifecycle Management:
  Manage the full design lifecycle‑from concept and BOM management to engineering change (ECN) and release workflows.
• Production Liaison:
  Work closely with the Technical Director and the production teams to optimise designs for sheet metal and platework fabrication.
• Innovation:
  Actively research and implement new technologies and “error‑proofing” techniques to improve vehicle performance and manufacturability.

• Fabrication Expertise: A heavy‑duty background in sheet metal and platework is essential. You must understand how metal behaves during the folding, welding, and assembly processes.
• Industry Context:
  Experience with in vehicle manufacturing is a significant advantage.
• Expert‑level proficiency in Solid Works is essential for this role.
• Analytical Leadership:
  Ability to use risk‑mitigation tools and Continuous Improvement (CI) methodologies to prevent design failures before they reach production.
• Deep understanding of BS8888 / GD&T drawing standards and safety policies within a manufacturing environment.

• Degree in Engineering or Manufacturing preferred.

This is an opportunity to move into a management‑level position where you aren’t just maintaining a system, but actively building it. You will have the autonomy to define the “Gold Standard” for a market leader and see your engineering decisions reflected in high‑value vehicles on the road.

Competitive salary up to £65,000 per annum, free on‑site parking, and a direct reporting line to the Technical Director.

#design #design engineering #mechanical design