Our client is seeking an experienced Vehicle Systems Safety Lead Auditor to play a key role in ensuring the safety of vehicles seeking type approval, particularly those incorporating Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and Automated Driving Systems (ADS).
In this role, you will lead audits of manufacturers’ Safety Management Systems (SMS) and assess their safety claims to ensure full compliance with international automotive safety regulations and standards. You will help maintain the highest standards of consistency, quality, and integrity throughout the Type Approval process.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead the assessment of vehicle manufacturers’ Safety Management Systems as part of the Type Approval process, ensuring compliance with relevant safety regulations.
* Conduct and lead audits to verify manufacturers’ safety claims and evaluate the effectiveness of their management systems.
* Attend and observe vehicle testing, maintaining detailed documentation and technical records to support compliance evaluations.
* Determine compliance outcomes from audit findings and vehicle assessments.
* Work closely with client managers to ensure effective coordination and delivery of Type Approval services.
* Provide technical oversight and leadership to engineers engaged in Type Approval activities, ensuring quality, consistency, and regulatory compliance.
* Maintain and apply internal standards and guidelines to ensure uniformity in audit and assessment processes.
* Contribute to the development of technical interpretations, internal policy guidance, and continuous improvement within the Type Approval function.
* Stay up to date with developments in vehicle safety, emerging technologies, and evolving international safety regulations.
* Mentor and guide colleagues in the area of system safety, fostering professional growth and technical capability within the team.
Essential Experience
* Proven experience conducting audits against automotive safety standards and management systems (e.g., ISO 26262, ISO 21448).
* Experience working on the development or assessment of safety-critical automotive systems (e.g., braking, steering, ADAS, or ADS).
Desirable Qualifications & Experience
* Level 6 or higher qualification in Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or another related technical discipline.
* Experience leading or managing safety or audit teams across multiple project phases, from specification and design to commissioning.
* Knowledge of UNECE regulations for Driver Control Assistance and Automated Driving Systems.
* Formal training or certification in audit practices (e.g., ISO 9001 Lead Auditor).
Technical Competencies
* Applying Knowledge – Leading: Applies advanced scientific and engineering knowledge with rigour and integrity to safety evaluations.
* Developing Expertise – Leading: Pursues continuous professional development and applies specialist knowledge effectively.
* Technical Oversight – Leading: Provides technical leadership and quality assurance for audits and assessments.
* Mentoring – Practitioner: Supports the development of colleagues’ technical skills and knowledge in vehicle system safety.
Behaviours
* Making Effective Decisions: Uses credible evidence and sound judgment to make informed decisions, even under challenging circumstances. Demonstrates confidence and accountability while considering wider impacts.
Additional Requirements
* Willingness to undertake regular UK and international travel, including extended overseas trips (up to four weeks).
* Full UK Category B driving licence (non-UK licences will not be accepted).