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.

Key Responsibilities

• Design Excellence: Design & develop concepts & prototypes and feasibility modelling. Create and oversee comprehensive part, assembly, and installation drawings. Serve as 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.

Technical Requirements & Mindset

• Fabrication expertise: heavy‑duty background in sheet metal and platework. Understand how metal behaves during folding, welding, and assembly processes.
• Experience within vehicle manufacturing is a significant advantage.
• Expert‑level proficiency in SolidWorks is essential.
• 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.

Qualifications

• Degree in Engineering or Manufacturing preferred.

Benefits

• Competitive salary up to £65,000 per annum.
• Free on‑site parking.
• Direct reporting line to the Technical Director.

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