Design engineer - Automotive

Position: Automotive Engineer / Design Engineer
Job ID: 2127/41
Location: Devon
Rate/Salary: £50,000 + dependent on experience and expertise
Benefits:

Engineering Chartership enrolment
Private pension scheme
Life insurance (4x salary)
25 days annual leave
MOD Reservist training days (Gold Award – 10 days)
Travel and secondment opportunities to Australia
Family Day (subject to availability)
Discretionary bonus upon 1 year of service

Type: Full-time – Permanent

HSB Technical Ltd is a specialist recruiter within the Power & Propulsion, Shipbuilding, Maritime Shipping, Energy, and Subsea sectors – visit: www.hsbtechnical.com for a list of our vacancies.

We have a number of permanent and contract vacancies for multiple businesses across the UK and overseas.

The below job description will outline this position of: Automotive Engineer / Design Engineer

Typically, this person will be responsible for producing and advising on innovative and cost-effective automotive designs using CAD tools to a high standard and within specified timeframes.

This role supports cutting-edge projects involving MOD vehicles and advanced automotive systems and is ideal for someone with a deep understanding of vehicle engineering and component integration.

HSB Technical’s client is an established and well-regarded business entity.

Duties and responsibilities of the Automotive Engineer / Design Engineer:

Produce innovative automotive designs focused on functionality, simplicity, and cost-effectiveness
Advise mechanical engineers on the integration of automotive systems into overall product designs
Use 3D CAD software (preferably SolidWorks) to create models and detailed engineering drawings
Design components including sheet metal, machined, cast, and fabricated parts from concept to production
Evaluate and revise existing drawings and designs to meet updated requirements
Maintain accurate drawing records, using PDM systems for issue control
Collaborate with project and senior engineers to deliver optimal design solutions
Liaise with suppliers to manage component sourcing and address obsolescence
Support prototype assessments for correct fit and functionality
Assist with the physical testing of vehicles and systems, including work with Trials Engineers
Select materials based on performance specifications
Participate in and incorporate feedback from design reviews
Conduct vehicle testing using data logging and instrumentation
Support documentation, report writing, and data recording throughout projects
Ensure compliance with quality, safety, GDPR, and internal company policies
Undertake relevant training as required for the role

Qualifications and requirements for the Automotive Engineer / Design Engineer:

Essential:

Prior experience working in an automotive engineering role
Minimum of HNC in Automotive, Motorsport, Mechanical Engineering, or related discipline
Strong 3D CAD skills (preferably SolidWorks – training can be provided)
Proven ability to produce detailed models and technical drawings
Broad knowledge of automotive systems (practical and theoretical)
Familiarity with drawing control and PDM systems
Strong communication skills, both verbal and written
Proficient in Microsoft Office and general computer use
Good documentation, report writing, and presentation skills
Structural analysis using first principles and basic FEA (e.g., ANSYS)
Experience with data logging and instrumentation for vehicle testing
Full UK driving licence – Category B (Category C desirable or willingness to train)

Desirable:

Engineering Degree
Experience working in workshop, manufacturing, or production environments
Experience presenting technical data and contributing to design reviews

This vacancy is being advertised by HSB Technical Ltd who have been appointed to act as a recruitment partner for this role.