Powertrain Engineering Director — Drive World‑Class ICE

McLaren Automotive Ltd; Woking; On-site; GBP 150,000 - 190,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

25 days’ holiday

Enhanced pension scheme

Discretionary annual bonus

Private medical insurance

Life assurance

Sabbatical after two years

Job summary

McLaren Automotive in the United Kingdom is seeking a Head of Powertrain Engineering to define and deliver the technical strategy for ICE engines and transmission systems across current and future vehicle programmes. The role leads multiple engineering departments and is accountable for end‑to‑end powertrain delivery from concept through production launch.

You will provide executive‑level technical direction, establish engineering standards, manage external partnerships and ensure design,

Qualifications

• Extensive experience leading ICE powertrain development in high-performance automotive environments.
• Proven track record delivering complex engine and transmission programmes from concept through production.
• Degree in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline.
• Experience managing strategic engineering partners and external programmes.

Responsibilities

• Act as the organisation's senior technical authority for powertrain engineering and ICE propulsion systems.
• Define and maintain the long-term powertrain technology roadmap aligned to vehicle, brand and business strategy.
• Establish engineering standards, methodologies and governance processes across all powertrain activities.
• Provide independent technical judgement on critical programme decisions, technology investments and engineering trade-offs.
• Drive innovation in engine performance, combustion efficiency, vehicle character, durability and customer experience.

Skills

Powertrain leadership

ICE propulsion

Engine development

Strategic leadership

Education

Mechanical Engineering

Job description

McLaren Automotive in the United Kingdom is seeking a Head of Powertrain Engineering to define and deliver the technical strategy for ICE engines and transmission systems across current and future vehicle programmes. The role leads multiple engineering departments and is accountable for end‑to‑end powertrain delivery from concept through production launch.

You will provide executive‑level technical direction, establish engineering standards, manage external partnerships and ensure design,