Lead Design Engineer

Lead Design Engineer
Location: Kent
Permanent | Flexible Working Hours
Lead the design. Shape the product. Make an impact.
Are you an experienced Design Engineer who enjoys getting beyond the CAD screen and seeing your designs become reality?
This could be your next move.
We’re looking for a technically strong, hands-on Lead Design Engineer to join a close-knit engineering team and play a key role in the continued development of a specialist range of vehicles and equipment.
This is far more than a traditional design role. You’ll combine mechanical and structural design, problem-solving, prototype development, testing and team leadership — with the opportunity to influence how products are designed, developed and brought to life.
What will you be doing?
Working closely with the Engineering Manager, you’ll take ownership of a varied mix of design and development projects, including:
* Designing new products, assemblies and components from concept through to production.
* Creating high-quality 3D models and 2D engineering drawings using SolidWorks.
* Producing assembly drawings, production drawings and Bills of Material.
* Developing hydraulic and pneumatic circuits where required.
* Supporting prototype builds, testing and product development.
* Getting hands-on with vehicles — taking measurements, assessing designs and helping solve real-world engineering challenges.
* Supporting chassis evaluations and new product development.
* Working with internal teams, suppliers and external partners to turn ideas into practical engineering solutions.
* Ensuring products meet relevant legislation, standards and quality requirements.
* Mentoring and developing members of the engineering team.
* Supporting resource planning, budgets, capital expenditure and project planning.
* Representing the engineering function at exhibitions and customer/supplier sites when required.
* Occasionally travelling overseas for testing, exhibitions and supplier/customer visits.
Why this role?
Because you’ll have the chance to make a genuine difference.
You won’t be designing in isolation. You’ll see your work move from an idea on screen, through prototype development and testing, into a finished product.
You’ll also have the opportunity to shape and develop the engineering team, influence future product development and work alongside Engineering, Production, Quality and Sales to drive things forward.
It’s a role for someone who likes ownership, variety and getting stuck in.
About you
You’ll be an experienced Mechanical or Design Engineer with a strong understanding of mechanical/structural design and a practical mindset.
We’re looking for someone who:
* Has proven experience in mechanical or structural design engineering.
* Is highly accurate with excellent attention to detail.
* Is confident using SolidWorks to create professional 3D models and technical drawings.
* Has experience with AutoCAD 2D — advantageous but not essential.
* Can turn engineering challenges into practical, effective solutions.
* Enjoys working hands-on with prototypes, vehicles and equipment.
* Can communicate technical ideas clearly to colleagues, customers and suppliers.
* Is organised, pragmatic and comfortable managing multiple priorities.
* Enjoys mentoring and supporting less experienced engineers.
* Works well across different departments and understands the importance of teamwork.
* Has a good working knowledge of Microsoft Office.
* Experience with SAP or another ERP system would be beneficial.
The person we're looking for
You might currently be a Senior Design Engineer, Lead Design Engineer or experienced Mechanical Design Engineer ready to take the next step.
What matters most is that you’re technically capable, commercially aware and not afraid to get your hands dirty.
You’ll be just as comfortable working through a complex design in SolidWorks as you are standing next to a vehicle, taking measurements, investigating a problem or supporting a prototype build.
Ready to make your mark?
If you’re looking for a role where you can combine design, innovation, problem-solving, leadership and hands-on engineering, this is an opportunity worth exploring.
Apply now to find out more