At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative transport system designs to enhance road safety and efficiency.
- Company: Join Jacobs, a leader in solving critical global challenges.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, well-being perks, and opportunities for community engagement.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to inclusion and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the UK's transport infrastructure while developing your engineering skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in motorway ITS systems and collaborative project work is essential.
The predicted salary is between 63000 - 77000 £ per year.
- Electrical
- Office Setup: Hybrid
Company: Jacobs At Jacobs, we're challenging today to reinvent tomorrow by solving the world's most critical problems for thriving cities, resilient environments, mission-critical outcomes, operational advancement, scientific discovery and cutting-edge manufacturing, turning abstract ideas into realities that transform the world for good.
Your expertise will help make some of the UK’s busiest and most strategically important roads safer, more reliable and easier to operate.
You will solve complex engineering challenges involving the technology that monitors traffic, manages disruption and keeps road users informed.
This is an opportunity to bring practical knowledge of systems such as variable message signs, MIDAS, CCTV, ramp metering, smart motorway technology and control centres to projects where effective design decisions have a visible, long-term impact.
You will also strengthen the wider ITS capability at Jacobs, supporting colleagues, clients and projects while helping develop the next generation of engineers in this specialist field.
About the Opportunity Join our Aviation, Rail and Technology team to deliver Intelligent Transport Systems projects across the UK’s motorway and Strategic Road Network.
You will work on complex engineering challenges involving technologies such as VMS, MIDAS, CCTV, ramp metering, smart motorway systems and control centres, helping to improve the safety, reliability and operation of critical road infrastructure.
You will lead and coordinate ITS design, resolve technical and interface challenges, and work closely with clients and multidisciplinary teams to develop practical solutions.
Alongside project delivery, you will provide technical guidance, support the development of colleagues and help strengthen Jacobs’ wider ITS capability.
This role offers the opportunity to combine hands-on technical leadership with client engagement and project influence.
Success will mean delivering robust designs, building trusted client relationships and keeping projects aligned with their safety, programme and commercial commitments.
Practical engineering experience within Motorway ITS, trunk roads or the Strategic Road Network.
Experience of designing, delivering or technically overseeing one or more relevant systems, such as VMS, MIDAS, CCTV, ramp metering, smart motorway technology or traffic control centres.
Experience working with clients and collaborating across multidisciplinary project teams.
The ability to attend the Basingstoke client office at least one day each week.#Our values stand on a foundation of safety, integrity, inclusion and belonging.
You’ll uncover flexible working arrangements, benefits, and opportunities, from well-being benefits to our global giving and volunteering program, to exploring new and inventive ways to help our clients make the world a better place.
We aim to embed inclusion and belonging in everything we do.
We know that if we are inclusive, we’re more connected and creative.
We are committed to building vibrant communities within Jacobs, including through our Jacobs Employee Networks, Communities of Practice and our Find Your Community initiatives, allowing every employee to find connection, purpose, and belonging.
Find out more about our Jacobs Employee Networks here.
Jacobs partners with VERCIDA to help us attract and retain talent from a wide range of backgrounds.
For greater online accessibility please visit to view and access our roles.
As a disability confident employer, we will interview disabled candidates who best meet the criteria.
We welcome applications from candidates who are seeking flexible working and from those who may not meet all the listed requirements for a role.
We empower employees with our hybrid working policy, allowing them to split their work week between Jacobs offices/projects and remote locations enabling them to deliver their best work.
If you require further support or reasonable adjustments with regards to the recruitment process (for example, you require the application form in a different format), please contact the team via Careers Support.
Manufacturing Design Lead in Reading employer: Jacobs
At Jacobs, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and inclusive work culture that prioritises safety, integrity, and collaboration. Our Glasgow office provides flexible working arrangements and a wealth of opportunities for professional growth, allowing you to contribute to innovative maritime projects while being part of a supportive team that values diverse perspectives. Join us to make a meaningful impact in the world of civil and structural engineering, all while enjoying the benefits of a global network and a commitment to employee well-being.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Manufacturing Design Lead in Reading
✨Join Engineering Meetups!
Get yourself along to local engineering meetups or tech conferences. These are great places to connect with like-minded folks and industry leaders who might just have a lead on that full-time Manufacturing Design Lead role you’re after at Jacobs.
✨Show Off Your Projects!
Don’t be shy about showcasing your engineering projects. Whether it’s a funky app, a mechanical design, or a complex algorithm, having a solid portfolio on platforms like GitHub can really make you stand out. Plus, it gives potential employers at Jacobs a taste of what you can bring to the table!
✨Engage with Online Communities
Dive into engineering forums and online communities, like Reddit or specific engineering Discord channels. Sharing your insights, asking questions, and being active can help you build connections that might lead to job opportunities at Jacobs.
✨Apply Through Company Websites
When you spot a role like Manufacturing Design Lead at Jacobs, apply directly through their website. Often, this can show your genuine interest in the company and you might just get noticed quicker than via typical job boards.
We think you need these skills to ace Manufacturing Design Lead in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Expertise:When applying for an engineering role like Manufacturing Design Lead, it’s essential to highlight your technical skills. Include any relevant software or tools you're proficient in on your CV—think CAD software, simulation tools, or programming languages. Don't skimp on any engineering projects you've worked on that demonstrate your ability to solve complex problems.
Focus on Results and Impact:In the engineering world, we love numbers and real-world impact. Quantify your achievements wherever possible—like reducing costs by a certain percentage, improving efficiency, or successfully completing a project ahead of schedule. This gives your future employers at Jacobs a clear picture of the value you can bring.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to express your passion for engineering and explain why you’re drawn to Jacobs specifically. Share what aspects of their work excite you and how your values align with theirs. This is your chance to show a bit of personality while keeping it professional!
Include Relevant Certifications:If you have any engineering certifications, especially ones that are recognised in your field, make sure to feature them prominently on your CV. They demonstrate not just your knowledge, but also your commitment to professional development, which is something we at StudySmarter value highly.
How to prepare for a job interview at Jacobs
✨Brush Up on Core Engineering Principles
Before heading into the interview with Jacobs, make sure you're solid on the fundamental engineering principles relevant to the role. Be ready to discuss concepts such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, or structural analysis, depending on the specifics mentioned in the job description. Don’t skip any hands-on projects or coursework; these can be excellent talking points!
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
Expect technical questions or case studies during your interview—after all, engineering is all about solving problems! Prepare a few examples of how you've tackled engineering challenges in the past, whether at university or in any practical experience. Practising with mock technical interviews can really help you articulate your thought process and solutions.
✨Relate Your Experience to the Role
In a full-time role, employers like Jacobs want to see that you can adapt and grow within their team. Be ready to discuss how your previous internships, projects, or studies relate directly to the work you'll be doing. Highlight specific experiences that showcase your collaborative skills and how you've successfully worked within a team environment.
✨Know Your Tools and Software
Most engineering roles require familiarity with specific tools and software. Prepare to talk about your proficiency with programmes like AutoCAD, MATLAB, or SolidWorks if they’re relevant to the role. Even better, have examples of projects where you’ve used these tools, as it'll demonstrate your hands-on experience and readiness for the job.
