Audio Systems Engineer - Contechs in England

Duration: Contract

Location: Surrey / Warwickshire / Oxfordshire

Position Title: Audio Systems Engineer

Job Summary: The Audio Systems Engineer is responsible for the development, integration, validation, and launch of premium automotive audio systems across vehicle platforms. This role works cross-functionally with hardware, software, acoustics, HMI, suppliers, and vehicle integration teams to deliver best-in-class in-car audio performance aligned with brand sound, cost, and quality targets.

Responsibilities:

• System Development & Integration: Define audio system architecture including head units, amplifiers, speakers, microphones, and networking. Lead end-to-end integration of audio systems into vehicle platforms from concept through SOP. Collaborate with EE, infotainment, body electronics, and vehicle packaging teams to ensure system compatibility and robustness.
• Acoustic Performance & Tuning: Support vehicle-level acoustic design and tuning in collaboration with acoustic engineers and audio brand partners. Define performance targets (SPL, frequency response, distortion, noise, spatial performance). Support listening evaluations, benchmarking, and subjective/objective assessments.
• Supplier & Partner Management: Manage Tier-1 audio suppliers and technology partners. Define technical requirements, review designs, and support DFMEA, PFMEA, and design reviews. Ensure supplier deliverables meet cost, quality, and timing requirements.
• Validation & Quality: Define and execute DV/PV test plans for audio systems and components. Support EMC, environmental, reliability, and vehicle-level validation testing. Lead root-cause analysis and issue resolution for audio-related concerns.
• Software & Feature Support: Collaborate with software teams on DSP algorithms, OTA updates, diagnostics, and feature implementation. Support integration of features such as active noise cancellation (ANC), engine sound enhancement (ESE), immersive audio, voice/audio interaction, and hands-free systems.
• Program Management & Launch: Support vehicle program milestones, change management, and release activities. Ensure readiness for manufacturing, service, and aftersales documentation. Support plant builds, pilot vehicles, and launch issue resolution.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Acoustics, Automotive Engineering, or related field.
• 3-10+ years of experience in automotive audio systems, infotainment, or EE systems (level dependent).
• Strong understanding of automotive audio architectures and signal flow.
• Experience working with Tier-1 suppliers and OEM development processes.
• Knowledge of automotive development standards (ASPICE, ISO 26262 awareness, DFMEA, DV/PV).

Technical Skills:

• Automotive audio systems (amplifiers, speakers, microphones, head units).
• DSP concepts: EQ, crossovers, dynamics, spatial audio (preferred).
• Vehicle networks: CAN, LIN, Ethernet, A2B, MOST (preferred).
• Acoustic measurement and analysis tools (e.g., Audio Precision, Klippel, LMS, Artemis - preferred).
• Basic understanding of EMC, power management, and vehicle electrical systems.

Soft Skills:

• Strong cross-functional communication and collaboration skills.
• Structured problem-solving and analytical thinking.
• Ability to balance performance, cost, timing, and quality trade-offs.
• Passion for audio quality and vehicle user experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with premium or branded automotive audio systems.
• Hands-on vehicle tuning or listening evaluation experience.
• Exposure to EV-specific audio challenges and sound design.
• Global OEM experience and multicultural team collaboration.

Why work through Contechs? Contechs is a leading Automotive, Design, Engineering, Technology and Innovation Recruitment Consultancy. Founded in 1997, with an inhouse Contractor Care Team to support all external employees, acts as an employment agency for permanent and contract recruitment.

How To Apply: If you're interested in applying for this position, submit your application and one of our recruiters will be in touch. If you know anyone that is suitable for the role, please visit the below page where we offer up to £600 referral fee.