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.
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