Lead Engineer - Bumper Systems

Tata Technologies; Gaydon; On-site; GBP 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Pension Scheme – up to 5% matching

Up to 20% off new JLR vehicles

Employee Assistance Program

Private Health Cash Plan

Job summary

A leading engineering firm in Gaydon is seeking a Lead Engineer for Bumper Systems to oversee design, development, and delivery across multiple vehicle platforms. Candidates should have a relevant degree, strong automotive experience, and proven leadership in cross-functional teams. The role includes compliance with safety regulations and performance targets. Join us to foster innovation and sustainability in vehicle engineering.

Qualifications

• Strong knowledge of CAE validation processes.
• Proven leadership in cross-functional teams and supplier management.
• Passion for innovation, sustainability, and delivering high-quality customer experiences.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, validation, and release of bumper systems.
• Manage engineering deliverables across all program phases.
• Ensure compliance with global safety regulations.

Skills

Strong experience in automotive exterior systems

Experience in cross-functional team leadership

Excellent communication skills

Project management

Problem-solving skills

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

CAD tools (e.g., CATIAV5)

PLM systems (e.g., Teamcenter)

Job description

At Tata Technologies we make product development dreams a reality by designing, engineering and validating the products of tomorrow for the world’s leading manufacturers. Due to our continued growth we are now recruiting for a Lead Engineer – Bumper Systems to be based at our customer’s site in Gaydon.

Our Engineering Research and Development department (ER&D) is a fast growing function within Tata Technologies Limited that is assembled to work on exciting projects globally for multiple customers. It comprises highly specialized engineers across Automotive, Aerospace and Industrial Heavy Machinery.

The Role

As the Lead Engineer for bumpers, you will be the technical authority responsible for the design, development, and delivery of bumper systems across multiple vehicle platforms. This includes fascia, energy absorbers, reinforcement beams, brackets, and associated trim components. You will lead cross‑functional teams and supplier partnerships to ensure bumper systems meet performance, styling, safety, and manufacturing requirements.

Area of Responsibility

End‑to‑End Engineering Ownership:

• Lead the design, validation, and release of front and rear bumper systems, ensuring alignment with vehicle architecture, styling intent, and regulatory standards.
• Manage engineering deliverables across all program phases (Concept, Design Freeze, VP Builds, Launch).

Cross‑Functional Collaboration:

• Work closely with Studio Design, Vehicle Safety, Manufacturing, Quality, and Procurement to ensure robust integration and delivery.
• Support virtual builds, physical builds, and launch activities at global manufacturing sites.
• Lead technical discussions with Tier 1 suppliers, ensuring timely delivery of prototypes, tooling, and production parts.
• Review and approve DFMEAs, DVPs, and PPAP documentation.

Performance & Compliance:

• Ensure bumper systems meet crashworthiness, pedestrian protection, durability, and NVH targets.
• Validate compliance with global safety regulations (FMVSS, ECE R42, GTR, etc.).
• Drive adoption of lightweight materials, modular designs, and sustainable manufacturing practices.
• Evaluate and implement new technologies such as active aero, smart sensors, and recyclable thermoplastics.
• Lead root cause analysis and resolution of engineering issues during development and post‑launch.
• Support warranty investigations and continuous improvement initiatives.

Knowledge / Experience

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, Materials Science or related discipline.
• Strong experience in automotive exterior systems, with a focus on bumper engineering.
• Strong knowledge of CAD tools (e.g., CATIAV5), PLM systems (e.g., Teamcenter), and CAE validation processes.
• Proven leadership in cross‑functional teams and supplier management.
• Excellent communication, project management, and problem‑solving skills.

Preferred Attributes

• Experience with premium or performance vehicle programs.
• Familiarity with injection moulding, painting, and assembly processes for exterior trim.
• Knowledge of pedestrian protection systems and active safety integration.
• Passion for innovation, sustainability, and delivering high‑quality customer experiences.

Benefits

• Pension Scheme – We match employee contribution up to 5% of salary.
• Tata Jaguar Land Rover Privilege Scheme – up to 20% off new JLR vehicles.
• Health Assured – Employee Assistance Program.
• Health Shield – Private Health Cash Plan.

If you are passionate about bringing innovation to the projects you work on and want to join a global company, then this is the place for you.

Tata Technologies: Engineering a better world.

Tata Technologies would like to thank all applicants for their interest, each application will be reviewed against the set criteria for the role. We would like to advise that only candidates under consideration will be contacted. If you do not hear from us within 10 working days following the closing date it will mean that unfortunately your application has not been successful. We will however retain your details for any suitable future opportunities.