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- Tasks: Lead the design and development of innovative engine systems, focusing on diesel and hydrogen technologies.
- Company: Join a well-established engine manufacturing company in Derbyshire, known for its cutting-edge technology.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, flexible working options, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of engine technology, making a real impact in sustainable engineering.
- Qualifications: Must have a degree in Mechanical or Automotive Engineering and 10+ years in powertrain systems design.
- Other info: Relocation and visa sponsorship available for the right candidate; office-based role in a vibrant location.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 84000 £ per year.
Principal Powertrain Systems Engineer Derbyshire, UK
Salary: £60,000 – £70,000 + Benefits (flexible salary)
An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Principal Powertrain Systems Engineer to take a leading role in the design and development of base engine systems for a well-established engine manufacturing company based in Derbyshire, UK.
Note: you will work on diesel and hydrogen combustion engine technologies.
This is a principal / lead engineer position requiring strong technical knowledge, leadership capability, and a proven track record in systems-level design within the internal combustion engine (ICE) domain . The successful candidate will take ownership of major sub-systems within engine programmes and provide technical direction across multidisciplinary teams and suppliers.
Note: This is not a CAD design role. It involves high-level systems engineering, including requirements capture, technical specification, tolerance analysis, validation planning, and supplier oversight.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead systems-level design of internal combustion engine components and subsystems (diesel or gasoline), with full lifecycle ownership from concept through validation.
- Define technical specifications, lead DFMEA reviews, and coordinate design validation and verification activities.
- Act as the senior technical point of contact for suppliers delivering detailed component designs.
- Collaborate with in-house development, test, and manufacturing teams to ensure design intent is achieved.
- Provide mentoring and technical leadership to less experienced engineers when required.
Required Skills & Experience
- A degree (or higher qualification) in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, Motorsport Engineering, or a related field.
- Minimum 10 years of post-graduate, industry-based experience in powertrain systems design, specifically in base engine systems.
- Proven experience in systems engineering for internal combustion engines across applications such as automotive, off-highway, rail, marine, or power generation.
- Strong knowledge and hands-on experience in one or more of the following systems (e.g. Valvetrain design (DOHC / SOHC), Timing gear systems, Crankcase ventilation (CCV), Aftertreatment systems (e.g., DEF / SCR), Fuel systems, including hydrogen experience, Air handling systems (e.g., intake manifolds, throttle bodies)
- Ability to interpret and manipulate CAD data (prior use of tools such as Creo or CATIA is advantageous).
- Experience overseeing validation testing and collaborating with external suppliers on technical delivery.
Additional Information:
This is a full-time, office-based role in Derbyshire, UK. Relocation and visa sponsorship can be considered for the right candidate. Commutable from: Rocester, Stoke-on-Trent, Derby, Nottingham, Birmingham, Uttoxeter, Stafford, Burton-on-Trent.
Principal Mechanical Engineer - Engine systems employer: Marcus Webb Associates Limited
Contact Detail:
Marcus Webb Associates Limited Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Mechanical Engineer - Engine systems
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the powertrain systems engineering field. Attend industry conferences, workshops, or local meetups to connect with potential colleagues and learn about the latest trends and technologies in engine systems.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your leadership skills by participating in relevant projects or initiatives within your current role. Highlight any experience where you've mentored junior engineers or led cross-functional teams, as this will demonstrate your capability for the principal position.
✨Tip Number 3
Familiarise yourself with the specific technologies mentioned in the job description, such as hydrogen combustion engines and aftertreatment systems. Being well-versed in these areas will give you an edge during interviews and discussions with hiring managers.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your experience with systems-level design and validation processes in detail. Be ready to provide examples of how you've successfully managed complex projects and collaborated with suppliers, as this is crucial for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Mechanical Engineer - Engine systems
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in powertrain systems design, particularly in base engine systems. Emphasise your leadership capabilities and any relevant projects you've led, especially those involving diesel or hydrogen combustion technologies.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Discuss your technical knowledge in systems engineering and how it aligns with the responsibilities of the position. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your ability to lead multidisciplinary teams.
Highlight Relevant Skills: Clearly outline your skills related to internal combustion engines, such as DFMEA reviews, validation planning, and supplier oversight. If you have experience with CAD tools like Creo or CATIA, be sure to include that as well.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for a Principal Mechanical Engineer role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Marcus Webb Associates Limited
✨Showcase Your Technical Expertise
Be prepared to discuss your experience in systems-level design, particularly in internal combustion engines. Highlight specific projects where you led the design and development of engine components, focusing on your technical knowledge and problem-solving skills.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
As this role requires mentoring and leading teams, be ready to share examples of how you've successfully guided less experienced engineers. Discuss your approach to collaboration and how you ensure that design intent is achieved across multidisciplinary teams.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect in-depth questions about powertrain systems and specific technologies like valvetrain design or aftertreatment systems. Brush up on your knowledge of diesel and hydrogen combustion technologies, as well as any relevant validation testing experiences.
✨Understand the Company’s Vision
Research the company’s recent projects and innovations in engine manufacturing. Being able to articulate how your skills align with their goals will demonstrate your genuine interest in the position and help you stand out as a candidate.
