Lead Design Engineer (Automotive Aftermarket) in Stoke-on-Trent

About the Role

We are building a new automotive engineering business focused on the design and manufacture of high-quality CNC-machined components. Our focus is on performance-led parts — components that improve how vehicles function, perform, and behave, rather than simply replacing existing parts. Our approach is simple: performance is achieved through correct engineering decisions, not just styling or marketing buzz. We operate with in-house 4 and 5-axis CNC machining capability, allowing us to design, prototype, and refine products quickly and properly. Our work will span a range of modern performance and high-end vehicles — from OEM+ upgrades through to more specialised applications. We are looking for a Lead Design Engineer to work directly with the Director & GM to define, design, and develop our product range from the ground up. This is a hands-on, collaborative role where you will help establish how products are engineered, not just what they look like.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Design and develop performance-oriented automotive components for CNC machining
• Work closely with the Director to make design and product decisions
• Translate concepts into production-ready, manufacturable parts
• Iterate designs through real-world testing and machining feedback
• Consider tolerances, materials, and constraints from the outset
• Support validation, refinement, and continuous improvement of products
• Contribute to defining internal standards for how components are designed and developed

What This Role Is (and Isn’t)

This role is:

• hands-on and practical
• collaborative and discussion-led
• focused on improving products through engineering

This role is not:

• a corporate “Head of Engineering” position
• a pure CAD execution role
• a management-heavy position

What We’re Looking For

Core Skills

• Solid grounding in mechanical engineering principles
• Strong CAD capability (Fusion 360, SolidWorks, or similar)
• Reverse engineering experience - form 3D scans or base components
• Good understanding of CNC machining processes and constraints
• Ability to design parts that are both functional and manufacturable

Experience

• Typically 4–7 years in a design / mechanical engineering role
• Experience working with real, physical components and assemblies

Mindset

• Detail-focused and methodical
• Comfortable working in a small, developing business
• Open to collaboration and technical discussion
• Interested in improving how things work, not just producing designs

Nice to Have (Not Essential)

• Interest in cars and automotive engineering
• Exposure to CNC machining environments
• Experience with performance or aftermarket automotive components

Why This Role Is Different

• Direct access to in-house 4 and 5-axis CNC machining capability
• Opportunity to work on performance-focused components across a range of modern vehicles
• Ability to design, test, and refine parts quickly
• Involvement in real product decisions from day one
• Close working relationship with the Director/GM
• Opportunity to help define the engineering standards of the business as it grows.

Final Note

We are not looking for someone to simply fill a position. We are looking for someone who wants to be involved in building a business focused on improving performance cars through proper engineering, from the first decision through to the finished part.