Chief Engineer

ZipRecruiter; Farnham; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative automotive technology company is seeking a Chief Engineer to lead the development of electric powertrain systems. This role involves collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to transition prototypes into production, requiring a strong technical background in electric motors and inverters. The ideal candidate will have proven leadership skills, extensive knowledge of DFM, NPI, PPAP, and IATF16949 standards, and experience in the automotive or e-mobility sectors. Join a forward-thinking firm that specializes in cutting-edge electric vehicle technologies and make a significant impact in the industry.

Qualifications

• Proven engineering leader with strong technical background in EV powertrains.
• Experience in taking electric powertrain products into production.

Responsibilities

• Lead a team to develop new electric powertrain concepts and designs.
• Facilitate transition of prototypes into medium/high volume production.

Skills

Technical Leadership

Electric Powertrain Systems

DFM

NPI

PPAP

IATF16949

Customer Management

Mechanical Engineering

Software Engineering

Commercial Awareness

Education

Degree in Engineering

Master's in Engineering

Job description

Job Description

Chief Engineer Surrey, UK

£competitive + bonus + benefits

This role is suited for a proven engineering leader with a strong technical background in the EV powertrain domain.

Most important: The role requires strong technical knowledge of electrified powertrains (electric motor and/or inverter) and experience taking such products into production.

This position is within an established, innovative automotive technology company. As chief engineer, you will collaborate with the CTO and a team of multidisciplinary engineers to transition prototype/concept electric powertrain systems into production. This requires an excellent understanding of DFM, NPI, PPAP, and IATF16949 processes and systems.

Chief Engineer – requires:

• Strong technical leadership skills – mentoring and guiding engineers
• Deep technical expertise in electric powertrain / EDU systems (electric motor, inverter, etc.) with an appreciation of electronics, mechanical engineering, and software
• Proven product delivery experience – taking electric powertrain / e-motors / inverters from prototype to manufacturing
• Extensive knowledge of DFM, NPI, PPAP, and IATF16949 standards

You will lead a team to develop new concepts, designs, and research projects through to validated prototypes, and facilitate their transition into medium/high volume production. A comprehensive understanding of electric vehicle powertrain components and design is essential.

Additionally, familiarity with PPAP and IATF16949 standards is required.

NOTE: Some travel will be necessary to visit customers and facilities in Europe and Asia (approximately 1-2 times per quarter).

Chief Engineer – Skills and experience:

• A degree or master's in a relevant engineering discipline (e.g., automotive, electronic, software engineering)
• Excellent technical leadership and customer management skills
• Deep understanding of electric powertrain / EDU systems (electric motor, inverter, etc.)
• Experience in taking electric powertrain / e-motors / inverters from prototype to production, ideally in automotive or e-mobility sectors
• Proficiency in DFM, NPI, PPAP, and IATF16949 standards
• Good commercial awareness and operations understanding (quality, supply chain, etc.)
• Hands-on experience in designing and developing electric drive units (electric motors/inverters) is highly desirable

The company specializes in designing and manufacturing innovative electric vehicle powertrain systems for automotive applications. Candidates with direct experience in electric drivetrain / EDUs are preferred.

This role is commutable from Basingstoke, Alton, Farnham, Farnborough, Woking, Guildford, Petersfield, Camberley, and Winchester. NOTE: Work visas can be supported, and relocation assistance may be available depending on individual circumstances.