Job Title: Verification & Validation Engineer (Niche Low‑Volume Vehicles)
Location: Coventry
Salary: £35,000 – £40,000 DOE
Holidays: 33 Days
Overview of the Role
The DRVN Automotive Group is seeking a Verification & Validation Engineer to join a low‑volume vehicle environment where innovation, craftsmanship, and rapid iteration are central. In this role, you will own ensuring every vehicle and its systems meet engineering, safety, performance, and legal requirements, bridging hands‑on testing with IVA homologation across DRVN’s portfolio while preserving vehicle character and quality.
Key Responsibilities
- Test Planning & Execution – Develop robust DVP plans at system and vehicle levels. Define and develop test plans, methods, and procedures for vehicle and system‑level validation. Conduct laboratory, rig, and vehicle tests including durability, performance, thermal, NVH, and functional evaluations. Support prototype builds, ensure readiness of test assets, instrumentation, and measurement systems. Test vehicle evaluations on test tracks, proving grounds, and public roads where appropriate. Ensure testing aligns with relevant standards, regulations, and internal procedures.
- Data Acquisition & Analysis – Specify instrumentation requirements and configure data capture equipment (analogue sensors, NVH equipment, thermocouples, etc.). Collect, process, and analyze test data to identify issues, trends, and improvement opportunities. Produce concise evidence‑based technical reports with clear recommendations.
- Cross‑functional Collaboration – Interface with suppliers, test facilities, and internal/external engineering partners. Provide input during design reviews, programme reviews, and gateway assessments. Support the Chief Engineer in planning risk assessments and time/cost estimation of test activities.
- Homologation Activities – Own the Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) process for all development and customer vehicles. Conduct early compliance assessments, prepare technical evidence packs, test results, drawings, and design rationale for approval authorities. Support pre‑IVA inspections and guide workshop and build teams through needed modifications. Liaise directly with DVSA, test centres, and regulatory bodies to ensure smooth certification.
Essential Skills
- Degree in Automotive, Mechanical, Electrical Engineering or equivalent industry experience.
- Minimum 3+ years of experience with V&V, test engineering, or system validation in a low‑volume or prototype‑heavy environment.
- Understanding vehicle systems and architecture (chassis, body, electrical, powertrain, etc).
- Able to interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and CAE results.
- Hands‑on experience with instrumentation, sensors, and data logging systems.
- Excellent problem‑solving ability and a methodical approach to validation activities.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to produce high‑quality technical reports.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a cross‑functional team.
- Confidence working directly on vehicles alongside technicians and craftsmen.
Desirable Experience
- Knowledge of automotive standards and regulatory requirements (ISO, UNECE, safety standards).
- Familiarity with DFMEA/PFMEA and robust engineering principles.
- Workshop experience: fabrication, prototype assembly, diagnostics, or troubleshooting.
- Proving ground driving qualifications or professional driver development.
- Proven understanding of IVA regulatory requirements and practical application to bespoke builds.
- Working knowledge of UNECE regulations relevant to niche manufacturers.
- Relationship experience with DVSA or third‑party homologation agencies.
Right to Work
This role is not eligible for visa sponsorship. Applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK at the time of application. Right‑to‑work checks will be carried out in accordance with Home Office requirements.
Equality & Inclusion Statement
We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and respected. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and are proud to be an equal opportunities employer. If you require reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know and we will support you.
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