Lead Engineer - Powertrain

Norton Motorcycles; Metropolitan Borough of Solihull; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading British motorcycle brand is seeking an experienced Lead Powertrain Engineer to join their Engineering team in Solihull. This senior-level position demands strong technical skills in powertrain engineering and leadership abilities to mentor junior engineers. The role offers a competitive salary package, generous holiday, and a supportive work environment focused on personal development and team welfare.

Benefits

33 days holiday including bank holidays

Generous pension scheme

Private Medical Insurance

Life insurance (4x salary)

FREE fruit for healthy eating

Employee Assistance Programme

Free electric bicycle hire

On-site free parking and charging points

Employee events and activities

Qualifications

• Minimum 6 years of relevant experience in the automotive or engineering sector.
• Proven experience working with and managing suppliers.
• Experience with DFM and DFA.

Responsibilities

• Lead benchmarking of powertrain components to industry standards.
• Manage project timelines across engineering functions.
• Drive design and development of engine components from concept to production.

Skills

Hands-on mechanical and engineering experience

Strong understanding of powertrain systems

Familiarity with manufacturing methods

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering (minimum 2:1 Hons)

Tools

CREO or other CAD platforms

Job description

We're not just another bike brand - we're an iconic, British motorcycle brand with over 120 years of history behind us. Our new state-of-the-art facilities in Solihull, West Midlands are home to a tight-knit, but ever-expanding team that's passionate about delivering exquisite riding experiences to our customers.

Under new ownership and proud to be part of the TVS Motor family, we're entering a new era of global success. And we want you to be a part of it!

At Norton, we value respect, trust, and responsibility. We trust our employees to execute their roles exceptionally and professionally, and we value personal development, teaching, and learning. When you join our team, you'll have the opportunity to grow and learn alongside some of the most talented and dedicated people in the business.

So if you're passionate about motorcycles and looking to join a team that's shaping the future of this legendary brand, we'd love to hear from you!

The Role

We are seeking an experienced Lead Powertrain Engineer to join our Engineering team in a permanent role. This is a senior-level position requiring a strong technical foundation in powertrain engineering, team leadership skills, and the ability to deliver projects from concept to production. The ideal candidate will provide technical oversight, mentor junior engineers, and ensure all deliverables meet internal standards and industry benchmarks.

Duties/Responsibilities

• Lead and manage benchmarking of powertrain components and competitor vehicles to industry standards
• Develop and manage project timelines in collaboration with team leaders across engineering functions
• Oversee the creation and release of engineering drawings and lists, ensuring accuracy and completeness
• Support material selection and appropriate manufacturing processes aligned with performance and cost objectives
• Organise and lead powertrain-specific design reviews
• Act as first deputy in the absence of Principal and Chief Engineers
• Provide leadership, maintain team morale, and identify training needs for junior staff
• Ensure all team members adhere to departmental processes and procedures
• Drive the first-principles design and development of engine components and assemblies from concept through production
• Create detailed CAD drawings, including full specifications: material choice, heat treatments, surface finishes, and geometric tolerancing
• Present design solutions during concept and formal design reviews
• Manage the release of parts in line with internal Design Change Procedures
• Liaise effectively with internal departments and external suppliers to ensure cohesive engineering solutions
• Develop and maintain Bills of Materials (BoMs) and ensure up-to-date component information
• Evaluate and integrate a wide range of design factors, including; manufacturing methods; component duty cycles; strength/fatigue calculations; corrosion/environmental impact; homologation and finishing; assembly feasibility and analysis; cost and supplier feedback; cross-platform commonisation; packaging; clearances; and assembly
• Contribute to continuous improvement within the Design & Engineering department by assisting with procedure development, participating in Powertrain Engineering meetings, and sharing technical knowledge across departments

Requirements

• Hands-on mechanical and engineering experience
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or equivalent (minimum 2:1 Hons)
• Minimum 6 years of relevant experience in the automotive or engineering sector
• Strong understanding of powertrain systems and their integration with chassis and electronics
• Familiarity with DFM (Design for Manufacturing), DFA (Design for Assembly), and 8D problem-solving
• Experience with a wide range of manufacturing methods, including machining, castings, forgings, pressings, and welding
• Proven experience working with and managing suppliers

Preferred:

• Experience with CREO or other CAD platforms

Rewards of working for Norton:

We like to take care of our Nortoneers and we think we offer some pretty decent rewards. Here's what you'll get when you join the team:

Competitive salary package that recognises your skills and experience

A whopping 33 days of holiday (inc. Bank Hols) to relax and recharge

Generous pension scheme that sets you up for the future, with access to personalised advice.

Private Medical Insurance and a Cash Back Programme to keep you feeling your best

Life insurance (4x salary) because we've got your back no matter what

FREE fruit, got to have your five-a-day!

WeCare Employee Assistance Programme, which includes access to online GP services, dietary advice, mental health support, bereavement counselling, and a fitness programme

Experience the thrill of an entrepreneurial environment within a larger, well-funded company with ambitious long-term goals.

Elevate your career with our Ideas for Excellence scheme, where every brilliant idea is not just valued, but also rewarded!

A diverse and international team that brings together different perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences.

Join the fun with our twice-yearly employee events, payday socials, and loads of exciting activities in between!

Want to go green? You can enjoy free electric bicycle hire

Plus, no need to stress about finding a parking spot - we've got on-site free parking covered and FREE electric charge points.

We know how important it is to take care of our team, and we're committed to continually improving our reward offering in line with the business growth plan.

Join us and see for yourself!

PLEASE NOTE, WE DO NOT ACCEPT AGENCY APPLICATIONS

Department Engineering Role Powertrain Locations Head Office Employment type Full-time