Virtual Build and Integration Engineer

Reporting to the Manufacturing Engineering Manager (Launch), you will plan and lead the Virtual Build process while actively supporting the integration of new products into the existing production facility. You will work cross‑functionally as a core member of the simultaneous engineering culture at McLaren Automotive, using simulation tools to evaluate, optimise and validate process, product, and tooling designs. Your role will focus on developing the product design (DFM) of future products with an emphasis on quality, cost, and efficiency, and ensuring that new models are fully understood and aligned to current processes for flawless integration.

Responsibilities

• Consult with Manufacturing Engineering teams to allocate build stations and define build sequences.
• Create and maintain the Virtual Build tree.
• Chair Virtual Build events with business stakeholders.
• Develop and manage Virtual Build timing plans.
• Continuously improve the Virtual Build process and execution.
• Collate and communicate issue status reports with Virtual Build event findings.
• Lead resolution of Virtual Build issues.
• Lead design reviews for internal use and supplier engagement.
• Own and update the virtual Tooling Catalogue with support from the Bespoke Tooling and Manufacturing Engineering teams.
• Perform ergonomic checks (reachability studies, loading studies, tooling access, kinematic models, etc.).
• Act as the primary point of contact for virtual assessments.
• Coach the Manufacturing Engineering team in virtual assessment best practices for ongoing vehicle concept development.
• Engage the Series Manufacturing Engineering team to ensure awareness and understanding at the beginning of a project.
• Work to the agreed integration plan so that new product and series manufacturing engineering teams interact at the appropriate gateways.
• Ensure phased ownership of new models with the Series Manufacturing Engineering team.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a Virtual Build Engineer or Virtual Assessment role.
• Experience developing and managing cross‑project timing plans.
• Strong understanding of Virtual Manufacturing tools available in CATIA V5 / Dassault Delmia software.
• Knowledge of general assembly process, tooling, and equipment.
• Experience using CAD software for virtual DFM analysis.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Understanding of DFMEA, PFMEA, and control plan updates.
• Strong presentation skills.
• Excellent IT proficiency.
• Self‑motivated, capable of working collaboratively and autonomously.
• Adaptable to a dynamic and fast‑paced environment.
• Effective communication and people skills; able to influence, negotiate and resolve conflicts.
• Flexible and open‑minded approach to tasks and responsibilities.

Benefits

• Structured career development framework.
• 25 days’ holiday, plus bank holidays; annual buy & sell up to five days.
• Enhanced company pension scheme.
• Discretionary annual bonus award.
• Private medical insurance and health cash plan.
• Life assurance benefit.
• Ability to apply for a sabbatical of up to one year after only two years’ service.
• Benefits that can be adapted to your lifestyle, such as discounted shopping.
• Generous parental leave policies.
• A range of wellbeing initiatives, such as employee assistance programme and free financial & mortgage advice.