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- Tasks: Lead global engineering teams to innovate and design advanced electromechanical systems.
- Company: Wabtec Corporation is a leading provider of innovative transportation solutions worldwide.
- Benefits: Enjoy a hybrid work model, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Join a culture that values innovation, collaboration, and making a real-world impact.
- Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in Engineering with extensive leadership experience in safety-critical systems preferred.
- Other info: Open to diverse applicants; we value unique perspectives and experiences.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 100000 £ per year.
It’s not just about your career or job title… It’s about who you are and the impact you will make on the world. Because whether it’s for each other or our customers, we put People First. When our people come together, we Expand the Possible and continuously look for ways to improve what we create and how we do it. If you are constantly striving to grow, you’re in good company. We are revolutionizing the way the world moves for future generations, and we want someone who is ready to move with us.
We are seeking an experienced Director of Design Engineering to join our team at the Mor Smitt (a Division of Wabtec UK Ltd) based in Burton on Trent. At Mors Smitt, R&D is driven by deep client understanding, innovation, and uncompromising quality. Our team of dedicated engineers transforms customer needs into ultra-reliable, high-performance products through close collaboration, cutting-edge tools, and proactive project management. Every solution is rigorously tested, intuitively designed, and built to exceed industry standards, delivering peace of mind and long-term value.
How will you make a difference?
- The Director of Design Engineering leads Mors Smitt RTPE’s global engineering team, driving innovation and excellence in the design of advanced electromechanical systems. This strategic leadership role supports business growth and succession planning through cutting-edge product development and engineering strategy.
What will your typical day look like?
- Develop and execute R&D and engineering strategies aligned with market trends and business objectives, including product roadmap integration and technology acquisitions.
- Lead multi-disciplinary teams across global sites, fostering innovation, excellence, and a high-performance culture.
- Establish and maintain robust design standards, governance frameworks, and lifecycle management processes, including phase gate reviews and documentation control.
- Champion Design for Cost (DfC) and lead reengineering and cost-down initiatives for both new and mature products.
- Deploy, audit, and continuously improve global engineering tools, CAD/PLM systems, and development methodologies.
- Establish and oversee a global Centre of Competence (CoC) for product testing, validation, and homologation, coordinating central and satellite labs.
- Foster strong partnerships with Product Management, Quality, Manufacturing, and Supply Chain to ensure seamless execution and delivery.
- Lead talent acquisition, mentoring, and capability development while promoting global collaboration and best practice dissemination.
What do we want to know about you?
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Systems Engineering (Master's degree preferred).
- Extensive engineering experience in global leadership roles.
- Proven track record in the railway or energy sector, preferably with experience in safety-critical systems.
- Demonstrated expertise in engineering delivery, PLM implementation, and cost engineering.
- Working knowledge of cybersecurity standards (e.g., IEC 62443).
- Proficiency in communication protocols (CAN, RS-485, Modbus, Ethernet/IP, IEC 61850).
- Strong understanding of international engineering standards and regulations.
- Demonstrated experience in leading R&D projects, particularly in emerging technologies such as SSRs, LCUs, and hybrid relays.
- You are ready to travel in Europe and RoW (40/50%).
If you don’t have all the above criteria don’t worry, we would still like to hear from you as we live our values always put people first, and strive to expand what is possible. Apply today!
Legal authorisation to work in the UK is required. We will not sponsor individuals for employment visas, now or in the future, for this job opening.
Our Commitment to Embrace Diversity: Wabtec is a global company that invests not just in our products, but also our people by embracing diversity and inclusion. We care about our relationships with our employees and take pride in celebrating the variety of experiences, expertise, and backgrounds that bring us together. At Wabtec, we aspire to create a place where we all belong and where diversity is welcomed and appreciated.
Design Engineering Director employer: GE Transport
Contact Detail:
GE Transport Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Design Engineering Director
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in electromechanical systems and design engineering. This knowledge will not only help you during interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to staying ahead in the field.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the railway or energy sectors, especially those who have experience in safety-critical systems. Engaging with industry peers can provide valuable insights and potentially lead to referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and how you've successfully managed multi-disciplinary teams in the past. Highlighting your ability to foster innovation and a high-performance culture will resonate well with the hiring team.
✨Tip Number 4
Research Wabtec Corporation's recent projects and initiatives. Being knowledgeable about their work will allow you to tailor your conversation and show genuine interest in contributing to their mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Design Engineering Director
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in design engineering, particularly in leadership roles within the railway or energy sectors. Emphasise your achievements in R&D and project management to align with the job requirements.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for innovation and excellence in engineering. Mention specific examples of how you've driven successful projects and fostered high-performance cultures in previous roles.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, clearly outline your expertise in engineering delivery, PLM implementation, and cost engineering. Include any knowledge of cybersecurity standards and communication protocols that are relevant to the role.
Showcase Leadership Experience: Detail your experience in leading multi-disciplinary teams and your approach to talent acquisition and mentoring. This is crucial for a Director position, so provide examples of how you've developed teams and promoted collaboration.
How to prepare for a job interview at GE Transport
✨Understand the Company Culture
Before your interview, take some time to research Wabtec and its values. They emphasise a people-first approach and innovation, so be prepared to discuss how your personal values align with theirs.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
As a Director of Design Engineering, you'll need to demonstrate your extensive leadership experience. Prepare specific examples of how you've led teams, driven innovation, and managed projects successfully in previous roles.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Industry Standards
Given the technical nature of the role, ensure you are well-versed in relevant engineering standards and regulations, especially those related to safety-critical systems. Be ready to discuss how you've applied these in your past work.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect to face technical questions related to design engineering, PLM implementation, and cost engineering. Brush up on your knowledge of communication protocols and emerging technologies relevant to the railway or energy sector.
