Lead Engineer - Closures

Gerrell & Hard Ltd.; Coventry; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative automotive engineering firm in Coventry is seeking a Lead Engineer to design and integrate closure and mechanism systems for vehicle programmes. This hands-on role involves extensive CAD modelling using Catia V5/V6 and collaboration with cross-functional teams to deliver high-quality solutions. The ideal candidate will have a degree in Mechanical or Automotive Engineering and strong problem-solving skills.

Qualifications

• Strong CAD capability in Catia V5/V6, with experience in complex geometry management.
• Familiarity with Teamcenter (TCUA) and PLM systems.
• Understanding of closure system design within automotive or similar sectors.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and integration of closure & mechanism systems across vehicle programmes.
• Generate and manage high-quality 3D CAD data using Catia V5/V6.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to achieve right-first-time delivery.

Skills

CAD (Catia V5/V6)

Problem-solving

Communication

Teamwork

BOM management

FMEAs

DVPs

Education

Degree in Mechanical/Automotive Engineering

Tools

Teamcenter (TCUA)

Job description

As a Lead Engineer you'll be responsible for the engineering design, development, and integration of Closures & Mechanism systems — from concept through to production. Working within the Upper Body (UP) engineering structure, your focus will be on delivering robust, cost-effective, and high-quality technical solutions for new vehicle programmes.

This is a hands-on design engineering role with a strong focus on CAD modelling (Catia V5/V6) and geometry development. You’ll be at the heart of creating engineering solutions that meet key performance, safety, and aesthetic requirements, while collaborating cross-functionally to ensure seamless integration across systems.

We are looking for someone working on Closures (rear end of the vehicle preferably) at pre-concept level. 70% of your time will be using CAD (Catia) to create 2d/3d sections.

This is a lean team and therefore this person will take full ownership of the complete system.

Key Responsibilities:
• Lead the design and integration of closure & mechanism systems across vehicle programmes.
• Generate and manage high-quality 3D CAD data using Catia V5/V6 (Part Design and Geometric Surface Design).
• Produce and maintain engineering BOMs, PMXU part IDs, DFMEAs, DVPs, hardpoints, and feasibility assessments.
• Store and release CAD models using Teamcenter (TCUA) and PLM systems.
• Support the development of kinematic and Multi-Model Link Networks (AVA networks) and help drive CAD automation initiatives.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including packaging, manufacturing, analysis, and quality to achieve right-first-time delivery.
• Participate in benchmark studies, gateway readiness, and support innovation/continuous improvement activities.
• Flexibly support other APC engineering areas based on programme needs.

What We’re Looking For:
• Degree qualified in Mechanical/Automotive Engineering or similar.
• Strong CAD capability in Catia V5/V6, with hands-on experience in creating and managing complex geometry.
• Familiarity with Teamcenter (TCUA) and PLM systems.
• Solid understanding of closure system design within automotive or similar sectors.
• Strong problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills.
• Experience in BOM management, FMEAs, DVPs, engineering feasibility, and data release processes.
• Proactive and adaptable – able to work flexibly across different module areas as required.

Desirable:
• Experience with kinematic modelling and CAD automation (AVA Networks).
• Exposure to both low-volume and mass production automotive environments.
• Second language skills.
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Why Join ?
Join a forward-thinking engineering team where innovation, collaboration, and personal development are at the core of everything we do. Be part of shaping the future of automotive technology and work on exciting programmes that push boundaries.