Job Title

Lead Engineer, Powertrain CAE

Ref #

59162

Date posted

Friday, June 5, 2026

Country

United Kingdom

Location

Woking

Business area

R&D

Department

Powertrain Transmission

Position level

5 - Supervisory / Professional - (L-17)

Working time

Full Time

Contract type

Permanent

Working pattern

9am - 6pm Monday to Friday

Salary

What to Expect

This role leads the definition and delivery of powertrain hardware, controls software, simulation methods and test approaches needed to achieve performance, efficiency and drivability targets. The Lead Engineer drives robust, integrated powertrain development by combining CAE, test and data-led decision-making to reduce risk, improve delivery speed and strengthen in-house capability.

What You'll Do

Lead the development of simulation models, methods and toolchains that support integrated powertrain and vehicle attribute delivery.
Lead and develop engineers and graduates, building a high-performing and capable CAE team.
Set, agree and review team and individual objectives in line with programme, functional and business priorities. Provide regular 1-2-1 support, feedback and development planning to help individuals grow capability and performance.
Develop and enhance in-house CAE capability, including tools, processes, automation and best practice.
Define powertrain hardware and controls software requirements to deliver performance, efficiency, drivability and cooling targets.
Own the powertrain performance attribute and support cross-functional delivery with vehicle, controls and test teams.
Lead project activities to meet technical targets, programme timing and gateway deliverables.
Work with external partners and suppliers to deliver project outcomes on time and to the required standard.
Support test definition, data analysis and validation activities to improve development quality and speed.
Prepare and present clear technical updates for internal and external project reviews.

What You'll Bring

Degree-qualified in Mechanical, Automotive or a related engineering discipline.
Strong experience in powertrain simulation, analysis and development, including model architecture, toolchain setup, boundary conditions, data processing and reporting.
Experience in leading a team of class leading engineers
Good understanding of powertrain testing, instrumentation, logging, fault analysis and test data interpretation.
Deep technical knowledge of combustion engines, thermodynamic analysis and modelling techniques, with exposure to hybrid powertrains.
Experience using advanced powertrain simulation and analysis tools, plus data processing platforms such as MATLAB, MDA, Concerto or Atlas.
Good understanding of engine control systems and their application in development and validation environments.
Able to interpret complex technical data, identify root causes and translate findings into practical engineering actions.

What We'll Do for You

We offer a wide – ranging benefits package, which includes:

Structured career development framework
25 days’ holiday, plus bank holiday. Annual buy & sell up to five days
Enhanced company pension scheme
Discretionary annual bonus award
Private medical insurance and health cash plan
Life assurance benefit
Ability to apply for a sabbatical of up to one year after only two years’ service
Benefits you can adapt to your lifestyle, such as discounted shopping
Generous parental leave policies
A range of wellbeing initiatives, such as employee assistance programme and free financial & mortgage advice

Who Are We?

No restraints. No limitations. We don’t simply push boundaries. We completely rethink them. McLaren Automotive exists to create breath-taking performance road cars.

It takes a community to do what we do. A diverse group of people with many areas of expertise, united by their passion to deliver visionary products and set new benchmarks.

McLaren Automotive commits to equal opportunity for all. Diversity, Equality and Inclusion is at the heart of our impact, it drives our innovation and enables us to truly create something special. Join us on our journey.