Lead Design Engineer - Powertrain

ZipRecruiter; Metropolitan Borough of Solihull; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A respected motorcycle manufacturer is seeking a Lead Powertrain Engineer to oversee the design and development of powertrain systems. You will lead projects from concept to production and mentor junior engineers. Required qualifications include a degree in Mechanical Engineering and extensive experience in powertrain design. This role offers a unique opportunity to influence the future of high-performance motorcycles.

Qualifications

• Extensive powertrain design experience (engine, gearbox, drivetrain from clean sheet).
• Deep knowledge of GD&T, tolerance stack-ups, and DFM for casting, machining, and forging.
• Proven record of leading design reviews and mentoring engineers.

Responsibilities

• Lead concept-to-production design of base engine, gearbox, and powertrain components.
• Manage 3D modelling, drawings, and documentation to GD&T standards.
• Collaborate with suppliers/manufacturers to resolve technical issues.

Skills

Powertrain design experience

CAD skills

Problem-solving

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Creo

NX

CATIA

Job description

Overview

A well-established motorcycle manufacturer is looking for a Lead Powertrain Engineer to take ownership of the design and development of powertrain systems, leading projects from concept through to production.

Responsibilities

• Lead concept-to-production design of base engine, gearbox, and powertrain components.
• Manage 3D modelling, drawings, and documentation to GD&T standards.
• Mentor junior engineers and review technical work.
• Specify materials and finishes to meet performance, cost, and durability goals.
• Collaborate with suppliers/manufacturers to resolve technical issues and ensure DFM/DFA compliance.
• Drive root cause analysis and problem resolution during prototypes, testing, and validation.
• Promote continuous improvement in performance, weight, reliability, and cost.
• Serve as technical authority for powertrain design in cross-functional teams.

Qualifications

• Degree (or equivalent) in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• Extensive powertrain design experience (engine, gearbox, drivetrain from clean sheet).
• Strong CAD skills – ideally Creo, but NX or CATIA also considered.
• Deep knowledge of GD&T, tolerance stack-ups, and DFM for casting, machining, and forging.
• Expertise in materials, heat treatment, and surface finishing for high-performance parts.
• Proven record of leading design reviews, mentoring engineers, and approving drawings.
• Excellent problem-solving and cross-functional collaboration with suppliers and internal teams.
• Passion for motorcycles and delivering class-leading performance (highly desirable).

This is a unique opportunity to join a legendary brand and help shape the future of performance motorcycles.

Apply now with your latest CV to learn more!