Design Manager

Reed; West Midlands; On-site; GBP 55,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading automation specialist in the UK is seeking a Design Manager to oversee a talented design team in advanced automation and robotics. The role involves leading high-impact projects and driving innovation from concept to delivery. Candidates should have a degree in Mechanical Engineering and proven experience in mechanical design, alongside leadership potential. Join this forward-thinking company to influence design strategy and work on exciting automation solutions that shape the future of manufacturing.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Benefits package

Opportunity for leadership

Qualifications

• Proven experience in mechanical design and project delivery.
• Leadership potential or prior experience managing projects/teams.
• Passion for automation and continuous improvement.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a design team to deliver automation projects.
• Oversee concept development and detailed design of mechanical systems.
• Conduct design reviews and ensure compliance with safety standards.
• Collaborate with controls and software teams for seamless integration.
• Drive innovation in CAD methodologies and design standards.

Skills

Mechanical Design Expertise

Problem-solving skills

Excellent communication

Collaboration abilities

Project management experience

Education

Degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

AutoCAD

Inventor

Autodesk Vault

Job description

Design Manager – Advanced Automation & Robotics

Location:West MidlandsSalary: £55,000 – £65,000

About the Role

Are you an experienced Mechanical Design Engineer looking for your next big step? Or perhaps you’re already managing projects or small teams and want to transition into a leadership role in automation? This is your opportunity to join a forward-thinking automation specialist delivering bespoke machinery and configurable robotic solutions for world‑class manufacturing environments.

We’re seeking a Design Manager to lead a talented design team and drive innovation across projects ranging from £50k to £2m+. You’ll oversee the full lifecycle of automation systems—from concept to delivery—while collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and championing emerging technologies like digital twins and Industry 4.0 principles.

What Makes This Role Unique

• Step‑Up Opportunity: If you’re a strong Mechanical Design Engineer with experience in bespoke automation and have overseen projects, this is your chance to move into management.
• Cross‑Sector Talent Welcome: Mechanical Design Engineers with project or team management experience from other industries (e.g., special purpose machinery, advanced manufacturing) are encouraged to apply.

What You’ll Do

• Lead and mentor a design team to deliver automation projects on time and within budget.
• Oversee concept development, detailed design, and integration of mechanical systems.
• Conduct design reviews and ensure compliance with ISO 9001 and CE/UKCA safety standards.
• Collaborate with controls, software, and electrical teams for seamless system integration.
• Drive innovation in CAD methodologies, documentation, and design standards.
• Engage with customers to clarify requirements and present design concepts.
• Manage resources across multiple concurrent projects and support team development.

Technical Environment

• CAD Tools: AutoCAD (2D), Inventor (3D), Autodesk Vault.
• Exposure to robotics, automation technologies, and simulation tools.
• Familiarity with ERP/MRP systems and PLM workflows.

What We’re Looking For

• Degree in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline.
• Proven experience in mechanical design and project delivery.
• Leadership potential or prior experience managing projects/teams.
• Strong mechanical design expertise and problem‑solving skills.
• Excellent communication and collaboration abilities.
• Passion for automation and continuous improvement.

Why Join Us?

• Work on high‑impact automation projects that shape the future of manufacturing.
• Be part of a culture that values innovation, collaboration, and technical excellence.
• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunity to step into leadership and influence design strategy in a fast‑paced environment.

Ready to lead the next generation of automation design? Apply now and make your mark in advanced manufacturing.