Lead Design Engineer

Job type

Full-time

Workplace conditions

Office Based

Location

The position is based in our office in Derby, Derbyshire, UK

About the Role

As a Lead Design Engineer within DG8, you will take technical responsibility for the compliant delivery of assigned projects. Working closely with multidisciplinary teams, you will ensure that all design solutions meet relevant legal, safety, and quality standards, while being delivered within agreed timescales.

You will play a key role in larger, more complex projects, collaborating with Project Engineers, Structural Engineers, Electrical Engineers, and other stakeholders. Alongside technical delivery, you will be responsible for managing and checking engineering outputs, including 3D CAD models, technical documentation, and detailed drawings, ensuring they meet both internal and client standards.

This role also involves a range of supporting activities, such as participation in design reviews, on-site surveys, and coordination of design teams, ensuring customer and business requirements are consistently achieved.

Key responsibilities

• Undertake design activities across a variety of projects, including concept development, 3D CAD modelling, and production of technical drawings.
• Take technical ownership of assigned projects, ensuring compliance with all required standards and specifications.
• Guide and support junior design engineers, providing technical direction and mentorship where required.
• Participate in design reviews with customers and internal project teams to ensure robust and effective design solutions.
• Check and approve engineering outputs, including 3D CAD models and detailed drawings, in line with DG8 processes.
• Collaborate with customers and suppliers to gather the information required to progress designs through to completion.
• Work closely with multidisciplinary teams, contributing to the successful delivery of integrated design packages.
• Undertake on-site vehicle surveys as required to support the design process.
• Contribute to design team coordination, ensuring activities are aligned with project objectives.
• Respond to evolving project requirements, maintaining delivery standards and timelines.

Requirements

• Strong understanding of the UK Rail Industry, including relevant standards and regulations.
• Proven experience in producing 3D CAD models and detailed drawings, ideally using Siemens Solid Edge.
• Demonstrated experience in leading or supporting the delivery of design‑led projects from concept through to implementation.
• Experience working within rail vehicle design or similar engineering environments.li>
• Ability to ensure compliance with modelling and drafting standards across engineering outputs.
• Full UK driving licence, with willingness to undertake site visits when required.

Key Skills

• Proficient in 3D CAD systems (ideally Siemens Solid Edge) within a Windows‑based environment.
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with internal teams, customers, and suppliers.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within project teams.
• Detail‑oriented approach with strong checking and validation capability.
• Effective problem‑solving skills and a proactive approach to technical challenges.

Our Offer

• A competitive salary package.
• Holiday entitlement: 25 days of annual leave plus bank holidays, increasing by up to 5 additional days with length of service (up to 30 days total).
• A collaborative, team‑focused culture with modern facilities and a flexible, engaging work environment.
• Wellbeing and development support, including private healthcare after one year of service, an Employee Assistance Programme, and a wide range of lifestyle and wellness benefits through the Perkbox platform.
• A comprehensive benefits package, including a contributory pension scheme, gym membership support, eye care vouchers, and enhanced parental leave.

We will be reviewing applicants ongoing. Icomera welcomes candidates from all backgrounds, and we value a diverse and inclusive work environment.