Exterior Lead Engineer – Automotive (Contract)
📍 Gaydon / Whitley, UK | 💼 6-Month Contract (Inside IR35) | 🏢 Office-Based
About the Role
Our client, a top global organization, is looking for a highly skilled Exterior Lead Engineer to join a leading UK automotive OEM, working on cutting-edge vehicle programs that define the future of sustainable and premium mobility. You’ll be responsible for leading the design, development, and delivery of key exterior systems — including bumpers, grilles, finishers, and underfloor systems — from concept through to production. This is an opportunity to work directly with OEM engineering teams, influence design at a global level, and help deliver world-class vehicles that embody innovation, performance, and craftsmanship.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead the design and development of exterior systems (bumpers, grilles, exterior finishers, underfloor components) from concept to launch.
* Deliver commodity plans to meet quality, cost, and timing targets.
* Manage engineering releases, APQP deliverables, change requests, and supplier coordination.
* Plan and oversee component testing and validation, ensuring all designs meet performance and regulatory standards.
* Resolve technical issues across component, system, and vehicle levels.
* Maintain up-to-date documentation including design analysis, quality history, and regulatory compliance.
Essential Skills & Experience
* Proven experience in automotive exterior systems engineering.
* Hands-on expertise in bumpers, grilles, exterior trim, appliques, and underfloor shields.
* Strong CAD proficiency (CATIA V6 / 3DX).
* In-depth understanding of plastic injection molding, tooling, and manufacturing processes.
* Familiarity with aerodynamics, pedestrian safety, and automotive quality standards.
* Demonstrated ability to lead projects or technical workstreams within an OEM or Tier 1 environment.
* Degree in Mechanical or Automotive Engineering (or equivalent).
Desirable Skills
* Experience in product creation & delivery (PCD) and change management processes.
* Strong problem-solving capability using structured methodologies.
* Knowledge of component verification methods at system and vehicle level.
* Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
* Experience with project management or agile methodologies.
Why Apply?
* Direct collaboration with a leading UK automotive OEM.
* Exposure to end-to-end product development on next-generation vehicle programs.
* Opportunity to influence key design decisions in a global engineering environment.
If this is relevant, please apply with your CV and we will be in touch.