Lead Design Engineer

ZipRecruiter; Sunderland; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking engineering consultancy as a Lead Design Engineer, where you'll spearhead innovative design solutions for bespoke heavy machinery projects. This exciting opportunity allows you to collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, ensuring projects are delivered safely and efficiently. With a strong project pipeline, you'll have significant scope for career development while leading and mentoring a talented design team. If you're passionate about engineering and looking to make an impact in a dynamic environment, this role is perfect for you.

Qualifications

• Experience in heavy engineering design, particularly in bulk materials handling.
• Proficiency in 3D CAD software and understanding of CE/UKCA regulations.

Responsibilities

• Lead design deliverables for bespoke engineering projects.
• Mentor the design team and manage complex models and assemblies.

Skills

Mechanical Engineering

Heavy Engineering Design

Problem-Solving Skills

Project Management

Education

HNC/HND in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

AutoCAD

Solid Edge

Inventor

Tekla

Job description

Job Description

Lead Design Engineer

Location: Sunderland

Salary: Competitive - DoE

Jackson Hogg is proud to partner with a leading engineering consultancy as they expand their team with the appointment of a Lead Design Engineer. This is an exciting opportunity to join a forward-thinking business that specializes in delivering bespoke, heavy machinery engineering projects across various industrial sectors.

With continued growth and a strong project pipeline, this role offers significant scope for career development. You will work closely with multidisciplinary teams—including engineering, project management, and procurement—to lead the design function, ensuring all solutions are delivered safely, efficiently, and in line with client expectations.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Take ownership of design deliverables for bespoke, turnkey engineering projects.
2. Lead and mentor the design team, supporting performance management and development.
3. Produce and manage large, complex models and assemblies using AutoCAD, Solid Edge, Inventor, or Tekla.
4. Create site layouts, technical drawings, part and assembly schematics, and design documentation.
5. Develop designs from sketches, specifications, and client requirements.
6. Oversee design activities from concept through to delivery, ensuring compliance with industry regulations and internal standards.
7. Conduct and validate work from both in-house and external design teams.
8. Support the Group Head of Design in meeting KPIs, including on-time delivery, accuracy, standardization, and efficiency.
9. Participate in site surveys both in the UK and abroad as required.

Requirements:

• HNC/HND in Mechanical Engineering (or higher), with a recognized apprenticeship.
• Experience in heavy engineering design, particularly within sectors such as bulk materials handling, process, O&G, aggregates, agriculture, or similar.
• Proven understanding of bespoke mechanical systems and equipment including conveyors, crushers, shredders, elevators, and filtration systems.
• Proficiency in 3D CAD software (Solid Edge, Inventor, or Tekla) and AutoCAD 2D.
• Strong grasp of CE/UKCA marking regulations and design risk assessment procedures.
• Familiarity with medium to heavy fabrication and manufacturing processes.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to take initiative in complex design tasks.
• Experience managing and delivering engineering projects from concept to completion.

If you are interested in this role, please apply online or contact Eleanor Buckley at Jackson Hogg for a confidential chat to learn more.