Description & Requirements
No restraints. No limitations. We don’t simply push boundaries. We completely rethink them. McLaren Automotive exists to create breath-taking performance road cars.
With innovation at the core of all we do, every challenge starts with the same question. How can we do it better? This restless spirit runs right through McLaren Automotive. And the search for perfection is evident in everything we do.
As the Design Engineer Leader you are responsible for the ideas, the innovation, the design feasibility and delivery of new technologies to define and deliver the strategic technical business plan.
You also have the line management responsibility within the Design Engineering department and direct “matrix” technical leadership, mentoring and resource management over the Studio, Design Office, Function Groups, Manufacturing, Quality etc. including managing resource and deliverables from on and off-site third-party Design Engineers.
This is a hybrid position, you will be required to work on site 3 days a week.
- Supporting (and be accountable to) the Head of Concept Design in terms of operation, Chief Design Engineer in terms of Engineering integrity and design solutions on a given Programme and to the Vehicle Line Director in terms of strategic development of innovative Engineering solutions fulfilling Programme deliverables.
- Managing both on and off-site individuals to effectively introduce new innovations and technologies and deliver Series Production standard drawings to drive the strategic direction of the business.
- Supporting the Chief Design Engineer in leading all Design Engineering activities relating to defined technology areas and systems on new vehicles by vehicle zone. Typically, responsible for all design activities in front, mid or rear zones.
- Leading on the design of specified systems. Responsible for overseeing and approving the Engineering integrity and design quality of specified systems through to production release in accordance with all project requirements.
- Leading and collaborating with all disciplines across the business (e.g. Design Studio, CAE, Engineering, Purchasing, Vehicle Development, Quality) to ensure a holistic approach to vehicle design covering all vehicle attributes.
- Working with Project Team to develop, maintain and apply Component Road Maps.
- Working with the wider business to develop Project Spec Book content.
- Working with Project Team to support BoM, Risk Assessment, Tech Specs, DVPs and DFMEAs for Body and Vehicle systems.
- Educated to degree level or equivalent is preferred
- Demonstrable experience working at a Principal Design Engineer level for a significant period
- Relevant Automotive experience of high-end or niche vehicles preferred
- Proficient in solid modelling and surfacing using a 3D CAD system – CATIA V5 preferred
- Ability to support design decisions with appropriate hand calculations
- Ability to create full detailed design drawings in accordance with BS 8888, including geometric tolerancing.
- Good understanding of mechanical design requirements for typical automotive applications e.g. fastening systems, sealing solutions, manufacturing techniques
- Understanding of DFMEA and risk assessment techniques in automotive environment
- Experience of composite component & body pressing design
- Ability to communicate and lead at a Senior Management standard and ability
- Ability to use own initiative when working under pressure
- Flexibility and adaptability are key attributes
- Strong verbal and written communication skills
- Ambitious and self-reliant. Intrinsically self-motivated.