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- Tasks: Design and develop innovative automotive components from concept to production.
- Company: Leading UK specialist in precision automotive components with a dynamic culture.
- Benefits: £37,000 salary, pension, 33 days holiday, and eye care vouchers.
- Why this job: Join a fast-paced team and make an impact on world-class automotive brands.
- Qualifications: Degree in Mechanical or Manufacturing Engineering; skilled in CATIA V5.
- Other info: Flexible working environment with opportunities for continuous improvement and career growth.
The predicted salary is between 31000 - 41000 £ per year.
£37,000 Per Annum
0800 - 1600 Mon to Fri
Daventry
Permanent role
Benefits: Pension, death in service benefit, eye care vouchers and 33 days holiday including bank holidays.
About the company:
Our client is one of the UKs leading specialists in precision automotive components and performance systems. They turn ideas into reality designing, developing, and manufacturing complete powertrain solutions for world-class OEMs such as BMW, Jaguar Land Rover, Lotus, and Singer. As an independent company, they move fast, think flexibly, and deliver with uncompromising quality.
About the Role:
Reporting to: Quality and Production Engineering Manager
Role Purpose: As a Design and Production Engineer, you'll turn ideas into precision-engineered reality developing innovative exhaust and powertrain systems for world-class automotive brands and leading their journey from prototype to production, transforming into efficient, high-quality manufacturing processes that meet demanding quality, cost, and delivery targets. Working closely with serial production, quality, and suppliers, you'll ensure every design not only looks exceptional but is built efficiently and repeatably. The role demands creativity, technical rigour, and a passion for engineering. You will support and contribute to internal and customer meetings. Your work will define the precision, performance, and craftsmanship that set each of my clients products apart.
Key Responsibilities
- Concept & Feasibility
Generate and develop CAD concepts using CATIA V5 (surface, solid, and 2D) based on customer data and packaging constraints. Provide early design and manufacturing input to assess feasibility, cost, and capability, coordinating with internal teams and suppliers. Prepare and maintain the Manufacturing Feasibility Report (MFR) throughout all project phases. Lead and Support Design FMEA and Manufacturing Feasibility Reviews to identify and mitigate potential risks early. Define datum structures, interfaces, layouts, and special characteristics in line with customer, internal, and APQP standards. Present design proposals and technical solutions at internal gateway and design review meetings.
- Prototype Development & Validation
Create detailed CAD models and drawings for prototype manufacture and customer approval. Design and commission tools, jigs, and fixtures for prototype and pre-production use. Plan and manage prototype builds, coordinating internal teams, suppliers, tooling, and manufacturing activities. Review first-off parts with the Quality Team, analyse measurement data, and implement design or process adjustments as required. Lead and Support DFMEA and PFMEA development to identify and control product and process risks. Capture and document lessons learned from prototype builds to support design freeze and production readiness.
- Pre-Production & Industrialisation
Finalise designs for production release, ensuring correct application of GD&T, robust datum structures, and tolerance stack-ups. Develop and validate process flows, PFMEA, Control Plans, and Standard Operating Procedures for pre-production builds, ensuring all SC/CC characteristics are included. Conduct capacity studies, layout reviews, and Run-at-Rate trials to confirm process stability and cycle-time targets. Oversee tooling readiness and sign-off, working with both in-house and external suppliers. Maintain CAD data accuracy and configuration control throughout development. Review process and measurement feedback from pilot builds to refine product and tooling design. Ensure routings, and process changes are correctly defined in Factory Master or ERP systems.
- Production Launch & Continuous Improvement
Support production ramp-up by resolving design or process issues promptly and effectively. Lead process capability (under guidance) and efficiency improvements to achieve cost, quality, and delivery targets. Lead and Participate in Run-at-Rate reviews, lessons-learned sessions, and cross-functional improvement workshops. Contribute to the continuous improvement of design standards, CAD practices, and manufacturing methods. Document and share lessons learned for future New Product Introduction (NPI) projects.
Qualifications & Experience
- Degree or HND in Mechanical, Manufacturing, or Production Engineering (or equivalent technical experience).
- Skilled in CATIA V5 for 3D modelling and 2D engineering drawings.
- Proficient in Datum Structures and GD&T to BS8888 / ASME Y14.x standards.
- Strong understanding of production processes, tooling design, and design-for-manufacture (DFM) principles.
- Familiarity with APQP, PFMEA, Control Plans, and Lean manufacturing methods.
- Familiarity with IATF 16949 and related quality management systems.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint); experience with ERP or Factory Master is an advantage.
Skills & Attributes
- Practical, proactive, and detail-driven with a hands-on approach to engineering.
- Self-motivated, organised, and able to work independently or collaboratively within cross-functional teams.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills, both written and verbal.
- Analytical and structured problem-solver, familiar with Six Sigma, 8D, Ishikawa, and Poka-Yoke tools.
- Capable of managing multiple projects, prioritising effectively, and adapting to fast-changing demands.
- Flexible, resourceful, and solution-focused, with a mindset of continuous improvement.
- Committed to maintaining the highest standards of safety, quality, and operational excellence.
Relevant Experience
- Experience of working within an engineering design and manufacturing environment background in new product introduction (NPI) and process development.
- Experience of the automotive industry, although a military vehicle background would be considered similar.
- Automotive Tier 1 or OEM experienced.
- Other sectors such as Chemical Process, Mining, Rail, Aerospace, Marine, etc will be considered.
Additional Requirements
- Must have a flexible approach to working and a willingness to take on other tasks.
- Must be flexible in order to respond quickly to changing demands and priorities.
- Must adhere to the company QMS and Environmental policies.
- Must adhere to the company Health and safety policy.
CRC Recruitment are a leading Midlands based recruitment consultancy covering vacancies across the UK. We have been established since 2003 and have a reputation for high service standards to both candidates and clients. We supply permanent or temporary staff to all areas of business covering a variety of different industry sectors.
Design and Production Engineer in Northampton employer: CRC Recruitment Ltd
Contact Detail:
CRC Recruitment Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Design and Production Engineer in Northampton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts on LinkedIn or attend local engineering meetups. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions and showcasing your CAD skills. Be ready to discuss your experience with CATIA V5 and how you've tackled design challenges in the past.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply; follow up! After submitting your application through our website, drop a quick email to express your enthusiasm. It shows initiative and keeps you on their radar.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your passion for engineering during interviews. Talk about projects you've worked on, especially those involving prototype development and production processes. Let them see your creativity and technical rigour!
We think you need these skills to ace Design and Production Engineer in Northampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Design and Production Engineer role. Highlight your experience with CAD, particularly CATIA V5, and any relevant projects that showcase your creativity and technical skills.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should tell us why you're passionate about engineering and how your background aligns with our client's needs. Be sure to mention your understanding of production processes and your commitment to quality.
Showcase Relevant Experience: When detailing your experience, focus on roles where you've worked on new product introduction or process development in an engineering environment. Mention any automotive industry experience, as it’s highly relevant for this position.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates!
How to prepare for a job interview at CRC Recruitment Ltd
✨Know Your CAD Inside Out
Make sure you're well-versed in CATIA V5, as it's a key part of the role. Brush up on your skills with 3D modelling and 2D engineering drawings, and be ready to discuss specific projects where you've used these tools effectively.
✨Understand the Production Process
Familiarise yourself with production processes, tooling design, and design-for-manufacture principles. Be prepared to talk about how you've applied these concepts in previous roles, especially in relation to automotive components or similar industries.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Highlight your analytical abilities and structured problem-solving approach. Use examples from past experiences where you've tackled challenges using Six Sigma or other methodologies, demonstrating your capability to improve processes and achieve targets.
✨Communicate Effectively
Strong communication is crucial for this role. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently, especially when discussing technical solutions or presenting design proposals. Remember, it's not just about what you say, but how you say it!
