Principal Design Engineer

Northreach; Huddersfield; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering firm in the UK is seeking a Principal Mechanical Design Lead to transform innovative engineering solutions. In this role, you will oversee the full lifecycle of mechanical design projects and manage teams while ensuring design excellence and compliance with regulatory standards. Strong expertise in mechanical systems, leadership experience, and proficiency with CAD tools like Solid Edge and Siemens NX are essential. This is an exciting opportunity to shape the future within a dynamic environment focused on professional growth.

Benefits

Professional growth opportunities

Impactful projects in high-stakes industries

Collaborative team environment

Qualifications

• Proven experience in mechanical design leadership within aerospace, defence, or heavy engineering industries.
• In-depth knowledge of quality standards (e.g., AS9100, ISO 9001).
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Guide and manage a team of engineers.
• Lead execution of major, complex design projects.
• Develop and refine detailed designs and specifications.
• Coordinate design activities with other engineering disciplines.
• Analyse design-related issues and implement corrective actions.
• Ensure all designs meet industry standards.

Skills

Team Leadership

Project Oversight

Design Excellence

Collaboration

Problem-Solving

Regulatory Compliance

Client Engagement

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Engineering or a related field

Tools

Solid Edge

Siemens NX

AutoCAD

Job description

We are looking for an accomplished Principal Mechanical Design Lead to spearhead innovative engineering solutions within a highly technical and regulated industry. This pivotal role involves overseeing the full lifecycle of mechanical design projects, from concept to completion, ensuring adherence to performance, cost, quality, and compliance requirements.

As a leader, you will mentor and manage teams, collaborate across disciplines, and provide technical expertise to solve complex challenges.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Team Leadership: Guide and manage a team of engineers, ensuring timely delivery of projects while upholding high-quality standards. Support individual growth through mentorship and performance development initiatives.
• Project Oversight: Lead the execution of major, complex design projects, driving innovative solutions that address unique challenges in mechanical systems and components.
• Design Excellence: Develop and refine detailed designs, specifications, and drawings for mechanical systems, including power transmission components, gear systems, and marine engineering applications.
• Collaboration: Coordinate design activities with other engineering disciplines and stakeholders to achieve seamless project integration and alignment with client requirements.
• Problem-Solving: Analyse design-related issues, identify root causes, and implement corrective actions to resolve challenges and meet project goals.
• Regulatory Compliance: Ensure all designs and processes meet applicable industry standards and quality management frameworks.
• Client Engagement: Represent the team during design reviews and ensure client acceptance of final designs. Provide expert-level technical support and advice.

Technical Expertise Required:

• Extensive experience with mechanical systems, including transmission systems, gears, gearboxes, and marine engineering applications.
• Advanced proficiency in industry-standard CAD tools, such as Solid Edge, Siemens NX, and AutoCAD.
• Strong background in creating mechanical specifications, scopes of work, and design calculations.
• Ability to lead root cause analysis and failure mode investigations to ensure design robustness and reliability.
• Track record of successfully managing design changes, validating solutions, and delivering high-quality outputs.
• Competence in chairing design reviews and presenting technical progress to stakeholders.

Key Qualifications:

• Bachelors or Masters degree in Engineering or a related field.
• Proven experience in mechanical design leadership within aerospace, defence, or heavy engineering industries.
• In-depth knowledge of quality standards (e.g., AS9100, ISO 9001).
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with a focus on fostering collaboration and team development.
• Highly detail-oriented, with a results-driven mindset and commitment to continuous improvement.

Why Join Us?

• Be part of a forward-thinking organization that values innovation and fosters professional growth.
• Lead impactful projects that shape the future of engineering in high-stakes industries.
• Collaborate with diverse teams of talented professionals in a dynamic, supportive environment.

Note: Due to security requirements, this position is open to sole UK nationals only.

If you are an experienced engineering leader who thrives in challenging environments and is passionate about mentoring teams, driving innovation, and delivering exceptional results, wed love to hear from you.

Take the lead in creating ground-breaking solutions apply now to join our team of industry pioneers!