Job Title: Contractor - Principal Design Engineer (Vehicle and Suspension Engineering)
Location: Leamington Spa, Warwickshire - Hybrid working available
Contract Type: Contractor (IR35 status determination is uncertain at this time and will be assessed in line with current off-payroll working rules once the engagement progresses. We will provide a Status Determination Statement as required.)
Role Overview We are seeking an experienced Principal Design Engineer to join a global mechanical design team on a contract basis. You will lead the design and development of vehicle and suspension systems, from initial concept through to production-ready solutions.
This role involves taking ownership of mechanical systems or complete products, managing a small team of designers, and collaborating closely with other engineering disciplines (e.g., simulation, manufacturing) to deliver solutions that meet component, system, product, and client requirements.
Key Responsibilities
Lead concept and detailed 3D mechanical design of systems, assemblies, and complex components (e.g., subframes, suspension knuckles, control arms, tie rods, pitman arms).
Perform detailed design activities, including basic stress calculations, FMEA, 2D detailing, layouts, and tolerance stack analyses as needed.
Work closely with FEA and simulation teams to validate designs against requirements.
Collaborate with manufacturing and process engineers to ensure DFMA compliance.
Manage Bills of Materials (BOMs).
Produce technical reports, documentation, and other project deliverables.
Liaise with suppliers and internal teams to ensure timely information flow and resolution of client queries.
Coach and mentor junior design engineers in best practices.
Step into lead designer or small-to-medium project team leadership roles as required.
Stay informed on relevant market trends and sector developments.Essential Skills and Experience
Degree (BEng/MEng) in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent, plus substantial relevant experience (or equivalent technical background).
Proven track record in mechanical design engineering, with a strong focus on vehicle/chassis systems.
Specialised knowledge in at least one key area: suspension design, subframe design, or suspension/steering components.
Strong grasp of core mechanical engineering principles, including the ability to interpret and apply FEA/CFD results.
Good understanding of suspension/steering fundamentals, vehicle dynamics, NVH, and durability considerations.
Solid knowledge of manufacturing processes and their design implications, with practical DFMA experience.
High proficiency in producing and checking 2D technical drawings, with advanced GD&T competency.
Experienced CATIA V5 user (essential).
Familiarity with PLM systems (Windchill preferred).
Experience leading small teams.
Advanced Microsoft Office skills.Personal Attributes
Confident, proactive, and adaptable - able to lead in challenging situations to deliver results.
Strong technical communication and report-writing skills in English.
Excellent problem-solving and analytical abilities.
Organised, with the capacity to manage multiple priorities and tight deadlines.
Willing and able to travel occasionally (UK and overseas) for supplier/customer meetings.What We Offer
Hybrid working flexibility (office/home mix, to be discussed).
Opportunity to work on innovative, sustainable engineering projects in a supportive environment.
Competitive contractor day rate (negotiable based on experience).This is a contract position, and applications are welcome from experienced contractors. If shortlisted, we will discuss IR35 considerations further and issue any required status determination.
To apply, please submit your CV and a brief cover note outlining your relevant vehicle/suspension design experience