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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the aerospace design team, focusing on CATIA-based design and tooling development.
- Company: Join a dynamic aerospace company in Liverpool, driving innovation and excellence.
- Benefits: Enjoy a permanent role with flexible working options and competitive salary.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of aerospace design, making a real impact in a collaborative environment.
- Qualifications: Bachelor's or Master's in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering; proven design leadership experience required.
- Other info: 4 days on-site minimum; strong focus on teamwork and resource management.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 84000 £ per year.
Location: Liverpool
Employment Type: Permanent (4 days on site a week minimum)
Salary: £(phone number removed)
Role Overview
We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Design Manager to lead our aerospace design team, with a strong focus on CATIA-based design, tooling development, and the implementation of strategic applications. This role is pivotal in aligning design operations with business objectives, ensuring technical excellence, and managing cross-functional teams to deliver high-quality aerospace solutions.
Key Responsibilities
- Strategic & Operational Leadership
- Implement and apply the strategy defined by the management team for the design department.
- Coordinate departmental activities, managing team availability and resource allocation across multiple projects.
- Organise and manage team schedules in line with project objectives, ensuring regular progress monitoring.
- Identify deviations in cost, quality, or timelines and implement corrective actions that balance customer needs with team capacity.
- Act as a technical point of contact, supporting teams in the day-to-day management of design projects.
- Report regularly to senior management on progress, risks, and mitigation strategies.
- Maintain and update key performance indicators (KPIs) and dashboards to track departmental performance.
- Lead the design and development of aerospace components and tooling systems using CATIA (V5/V6).
- Ensure compliance with aerospace standards and design for manufacturing (DFM) principles.
- Oversee the implementation and optimisation of selected design applications and digital tools.
- Support tooling design activities, including jigs, fixtures, and composite tooling for manufacturing readiness.
- Conduct design reviews and ensure technical documentation is complete and accurate.
- Manage and support design teams on a daily basis, acting as a key contact and decision-maker.
- Allocate resources effectively across ongoing projects, balancing workload and priorities.
- Monitor team workload and occupancy rates to anticipate changes and provide development opportunities.
- Update and communicate the general workload plan to senior management, ensuring transparency and alignment.
Required Qualifications & Experience
- Bachelor's or Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
- Proven experience in a design leadership role within the aerospace sector.
- Advanced proficiency in CATIA (V5 or V6) for 3D modelling, surfacing, and assembly design.
- Strong background in tooling design and development.
- Experience implementing and managing engineering applications and digital tools.
- Familiarity with aerospace standards (e.g., AS9100, EASA, FAA).
- Excellent leadership, communication, and project management skills.
Preferred Skills
- Experience with PLM systems (e.g., ENOVIA, Teamcenter).
- Knowledge of composite materials and manufacturing processes.
- Exposure to simulation and automation tools within the design lifecycle.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
If you're interested in hearing more about the opportunity listed above please click submit on the advert or alternatively send a copy of your CV.
Head of Design employer: Reed Specialist Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Reed Specialist Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Design
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with CATIA and its latest features, especially V5 and V6. Being able to demonstrate your proficiency in these tools during discussions will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 2
Research the latest trends and standards in aerospace design, particularly AS9100 and EASA regulations. Showing that you are up-to-date with industry standards can impress the hiring team.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience in managing cross-functional teams and how you've successfully led projects in the past. Highlighting specific examples will showcase your leadership skills effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Network with professionals in the aerospace sector, especially those who have worked with the company or similar roles. Personal connections can provide valuable insights and potentially give you an edge in the application process.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Design
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in aerospace design, particularly with CATIA. Emphasise any leadership roles you've held and specific projects that align with the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for aerospace design and your strategic vision for leading a design team. Mention how your skills and experiences make you the perfect fit for the role and how you can contribute to the company's objectives.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Clearly list your educational background and any relevant certifications, especially those related to aerospace engineering and design software. This will help demonstrate your qualifications for the position.
Showcase Leadership Experience: In your application, provide examples of how you've successfully managed teams and projects in the past. Highlight your ability to balance customer needs with team capacity, as this is crucial for the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Reed Specialist Recruitment
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Head of Design, you'll be expected to lead teams effectively. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully managed teams, resolved conflicts, or implemented strategic changes. This will demonstrate your capability to align design operations with business objectives.
✨Demonstrate Technical Proficiency in CATIA
Since the role requires advanced proficiency in CATIA, be ready to discuss specific projects where you've used this software. Highlight your experience with 3D modelling, surfacing, and assembly design, and be prepared to answer technical questions related to aerospace standards.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to manage resources. Think of situations where you had to balance project timelines, quality, and team capacity, and how you implemented corrective actions to meet customer needs.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Aerospace Standards
Understanding aerospace standards like AS9100, EASA, and FAA is crucial. Brush up on these regulations and be prepared to discuss how you've ensured compliance in your previous roles, as this will show your commitment to maintaining high-quality design practices.
