Mechanical Design Engineer – Vehicle Seating Mechanisms
Location: UK (Hybrid – majority WFH with occasional on-site support in South Wales)
Type: Full-time, permanent
Salary: £50,000–£55,000 + relocation support
Overview
We are recruiting a Mechanical Design Engineer to support the design and development of vehicle seating structures and mechanisms, taking products from early concept through to production. This is a hands-on engineering role suited to someone who enjoys solving real mechanical problems, working closely with suppliers, and seeing designs built and tested quickly.
The role sits within an R&D-focused environment and will play a key part in expanding a growing seating product portfolio for passenger vehicle applications.
Key Responsibilities
Design and develop seat structures and mechanisms including hinges, latches, locks, sliding and folding systems.
Take designs from concept through prototype and into production.
Produce 3D CAD models and 2D drawings with appropriate tolerancing and assembly detail.
Own packaging studies and dimensional layouts within tight vehicle interior constraints.
Support material selection and manufacturing process decisions (pressings, weldments, assemblies).
Work closely with suppliers on design refinement, feasibility, and issue resolution.
Support prototype builds, functional testing, durability testing, and design improvements.
Contribute to design reviews, DFMEA activities, and engineering change management.
Required Experience & Skills
Degree in Mechanical Engineering (or equivalent practical experience).
Minimum 5 years’ experience in mechanical design within automotive, aerospace, or similar industries.
Proven experience working on seating systems or mechanical mechanisms (structures, kinematics, moving parts).
Strong CATIA V5 experience (essential).
Good understanding of manufacturing methods, tolerancing, and design for assembly.
Practical, delivery-focused mindset with the ability to troubleshoot real-world issues.
Desirable Experience
Automotive seating or restraint systems experience.
Experience with pressings, weldments, and structural components.
Exposure to prototype builds, test activity, and supplier development.
Basic understanding of CAE for stiffness or strength.
Working Pattern & Location
Hybrid role: majority working from home.
Occasional on-site support required in South Wales (travel and hotel costs fully covered).
Relocation support available for candidates wishing to move closer to site.
Why Apply
High level of ownership from concept to build.
Growing business with strong investment in R&D and new passenger vehicle products.
Flexible working with funded travel and clear progression opportunities