Design engineer - Automotive

Position: Automotive Engineer / Design Engineer

Job ID: 2127/41

Location: Devon

Rate/Salary: £50,000 + dependent on experience and expertise 

Benefits:

• Engineering Chartership enrolment


• Private pension scheme


• Life insurance (4x salary)


• 25 days annual leave


• MOD Reservist training days (Gold Award – 10 days)


• Travel and secondment opportunities to Australia


• Family Day (subject to availability)


• Discretionary bonus upon 1 year of service

Type: Full-time – Permanent

HSB Technical Ltd is a specialist recruiter within the Power & Propulsion, Shipbuilding, Maritime Shipping, Energy, and Subsea sectors – visit:[link removed] for a list of our vacancies. We have a number of permanent and contract vacancies for multiple businesses across the UK and overseas.

The below job description will outline this position of: Automotive Engineer / Design Engineer

Typically, this person will be responsible for producing and advising on innovative and cost-effective automotive designs using CAD tools to a high standard and within specified timeframes. This role supports cutting-edge projects involving MOD vehicles and advanced automotive systems and is ideal for someone with a deep understanding of vehicle engineering and component integration.

HSB Technical’s client is an established and well-regarded business entity.

Duties and responsibilities of the Automotive Engineer / Design Engineer:

• Produce innovative automotive designs focused on functionality, simplicity, and cost-effectiveness


• Advise mechanical engineers on the integration of automotive systems into overall product designs


• Use 3D CAD software (preferably SolidWorks) to create models and detailed engineering drawings


• Design components including sheet metal, machined, cast, and fabricated parts from concept to production


• Evaluate and revise existing drawings and designs to meet updated requirements


• Maintain accurate drawing records, using PDM systems for issue control


• Collaborate with project and senior engineers to deliver optimal design solutions


• Liaise with suppliers to manage component sourcing and address obsolescence


• Support prototype assessments for correct fit and functionality


• Assist with the physical testing of vehicles and systems, including work with Trials Engineers


• Select materials based on performance specifications


• Participate in and incorporate feedback from design reviews


• Conduct vehicle testing using data logging and instrumentation


• Support documentation, report writing, and data recording throughout projects


• Ensure compliance with quality, safety, GDPR, and internal company policies


• Undertake relevant training as required for the role

Qualifications and requirements for the Automotive Engineer / Design Engineer:

Essential:

• Prior experience working in an automotive engineering role


• Minimum of HNC in Automotive, Motorsport, Mechanical Engineering, or related discipline


• Strong 3D CAD skills (preferably SolidWorks – training can be provided)


• Proven ability to produce detailed models and technical drawings


• Broad knowledge of automotive systems (practical and theoretical)


• Familiarity with drawing control and PDM systems


• Strong communication skills, both verbal and written


• Proficient in Microsoft Office and general computer use


• Good documentation, report writing, and presentation skills


• Structural analysis using first principles and basic FEA (e.g., ANSYS)


• Experience with data logging and instrumentation for vehicle testing


• Full UK driving licence – Category B (Category C desirable or willingness to train)

Desirable:

• Engineering Degree


• Experience working in workshop, manufacturing, or production environments


• Experience presenting technical data and contributing to design reviews

This vacancy is being advertised by HSB Technical Ltd who have been appointed to act as a recruitment partner for this role.