Design Engineer Manager

We are looking for an experienced Design Manager, for our client based in Somerset. This is a permanent, full time position. As a Design Engineer you will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our product designs, leading a talented team of engineers to create innovative, efficient, and high-quality solutions. You will collaborate across departments to ensure our designs meet performance, manufacturability, and cost-effectiveness targets, while maintaining compliance with industry standards and regulations. • Leadership & Team Development: Build, mentor, and develop a high-performing design team, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Conduct performance reviews and provide regular feedback to help team members achieve their full potential. • Product Innovation & Development: Drive the advancement of our product designs by identifying and integrating cutting-edge technologies, materials, and manufacturing techniques. • Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with R&D to explore new concepts and maintain our competitive edge. Partner with the manufacturing team to optimise designs for cost-effective production, assembly efficiency, and durability. • Project Management: Oversee multiple design projects simultaneously, ensuring timely delivery, budget adherence, and compliance with quality standards. • Technical Expertise & Problem-Solving: Provide guidance on complex engineering challenges, ensuring efficient and effective solutions that align with business objectives. • Compliance & Quality Assurance: Ensure all designs adhere to safety, regulatory, and quality standards, including ISO, CE Marking, and HSE requirements. Maintain necessary certifications and ensure compliance with industry best practices. • Cost & Material Management: Produce material lists and project costings, working closely with the purchasing department to secure the best prices and optimise resources. • Strategic Input: As part of the management team, contribute to monthly meetings, discussing project progress, design strategies, and business developments within the Design department. • Continuous Improvement: Identify opportunities to enhance design processes, workflows, and tools to boost efficiency and innovation. • Additional ad hoc responsibilities may be required to support business needs. KEY SKILLS • Experience: Minimum 5+ years in mechanical design engineering, with at least 3 years in a leadership or managerial role preferred. • Industry Knowledge: Proven experience designing and developing heavy machinery, industrial equipment, or similar large-scale engineered products (preferred). • Technical Proficiency: Expertise in CAD software (e.g., Creo, SolidWorks, AutoCAD). Knowledge of simulation tools such as FEA, CFD, and stress analysis (e.g., Inventor Simulation). • Manufacturing Acumen: Basic knowledge of machining, welding, and assembly processes to ensure designs are practical and efficient. • Regulatory Understanding: Familiarity with industry standards and regulations, including ISO 9001, BS, UKCA. • Project & Time Management: Ability to oversee multiple projects, manage priorities, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment. • Problem-Solving & Innovation: A creative and analytical mindset, with a strong focus on engineering excellence and continuous improvement. • Communication & Leadership: Strong interpersonal and leadership skills to inspire and drive team performance. The salary is between £40k-£50k dependant on experience