Engineering Director

Grayson Thermal Systems; Birmingham; On-site; GBP 125,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading organization in thermal management products is seeking an experienced Engineering Director in Birmingham to lead a team over 30 people. You will manage the product development program and oversee engineering activities, focusing on zero-emission vehicle sectors. The ideal candidate has a degree in engineering, experience in managing an engineering department, and knowledge of thermal management principles. This role emphasizes technical excellence and safety in product design.

Qualifications

• Experience managing an engineering department with mechanical, electrical, and design activities.
• Proficient in FEA and CFD analysis.

Responsibilities

• Lead a team of 30+ members coordinating all engineering activities.
• Manage the product development program and develop long-term strategy.
• Ensure engineering and technical excellence for products.

Skills

Full understanding of vehicle design and subsystem integration

Broad engineering principles relevant to product development

Electrical/electronic expertise or ability to manage electronics teams

Knowledge of CAN J1939 protocol

Ability to work in a fast-paced environment

Education

Degree in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering (minimum 2:1)

ILM Level 5 or equivalent (minimum)

IOSH or NEBOSH qualification (desired)

Job description

Role Summary

Grayson is a growing organisation positioned in the Low Carbon / Zero emission vehicle sector. We are developing an exciting range of Thermal Management products and require a forward-thinking, experienced Engineering Director to lead the team, manage the product development program, and develop the long-term strategy. Based in Birmingham, you will lead a team of 30+ members, coordinating all engineering activities to meet the strategic 3-7 year plan. You will deliver engineering and technical excellence that exceeds market expectations and ensure total reliability in the GTS product range through design, testing, and validation.

Key areas of responsibility

• Product/Customer Engineering, offering a standard product range with pre-agreed acceptable design changes
• Updating Product Design Standards with lessons learned and best practices
• Managing the Test & Development Department to ensure all products are fully validated, with published capabilities and key installation requirements
• Overseeing the Installation Approval process alongside Test & Development
• Supporting Prototype Build and End of Line Testing & Approval
• Managing FAI approval process and documentation
• Establishing engineering standards and processes
• Conducting project reviews to include technical requirements, on-time delivery, and budget adherence
• Managing Waste Identification processes with a focus on preventive measures

Technical

• Leading R&D in developing future thermal management products and systems
• Developing products with optimized weight, performance, and efficiency
• Applying electrical/electronic expertise to platform development of controls and field reporting
• Managing manufacturing engineering to transition from concept and CAD models to production-ready products
• Performing FEA analysis of structures and systems
• Leading CFD analysis for flow, performance, and system integration
• Incorporating system protection, mechanical, and electrical considerations into new designs

Strategy

• Creating a technology roadmap for long-term development
• Training and personal development for the engineering team
• Establishing an operating platform for efficient engineering processes
• Ensuring product development reflects total cost of ownership, lifecycle costs, and recyclability
• Developing a 3-year rolling engineering departmental budget focused on product reliability and customer satisfaction

Health & Safety

• Ensuring departmental safety and risk minimization
• Fostering a culture of safe working practices
• Designing products with safety features for operators and technicians

Quality

• Embedding quality into products and processes from design through production
• Supporting reliability issues and process improvements

Key Skills

• Full understanding of vehicle design and subsystem integration
• Broad engineering principles relevant to product development
• Open-mindedness and innovation in market requirements and product excellence
• Electrical/electronic expertise or ability to manage electronics teams
• Understanding of thermal management and system integration
• Experience with FEA analysis
• Proficiency in CFD analysis
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, providing leadership and direction
• Knowledge of CAN J1939 protocol

Experience/Knowledge

• Experience managing an engineering department with mechanical, electrical, and design activities
• Degree in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering (minimum 2:1)
• ILM Level 5 or equivalent (minimum)
• IOSH or NEBOSH qualification (desired, training available)

Competencies

• Team player capable of engaging at all levels within the business, with customers and suppliers
• Calm demeanor focused on problem-solving and resolution