Design Manager

Design Manager

Deeside Full-Time 48000 - 72000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead a dynamic aerospace design team, focusing on CATIA-based design and tooling development.
  • Company: Join a forward-thinking aerospace company based in Liverpool, dedicated to innovation and excellence.
  • Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, career growth opportunities, and a collaborative work environment.
  • Why this job: Be part of a cutting-edge industry, making impactful contributions to aerospace solutions.
  • Qualifications: Bachelor's or Master's in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering; proven design leadership experience required.
  • Other info: Ideal for those passionate about aerospace and eager to drive technical excellence.

The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.

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

  • 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.

Design Manager employer: Reed

As a leading employer in the aerospace sector, we offer a vibrant work culture in Liverpool that fosters innovation and collaboration. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through continuous training opportunities and a supportive environment that encourages professional development. Join us to be part of a team that values technical excellence and provides unique advantages such as working on cutting-edge projects with state-of-the-art tools like CATIA.
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Contact Detail:

Reed Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Design Manager

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with CATIA V5 and V6 if you haven't already. Since this role heavily relies on CATIA for design, showcasing your proficiency in these tools during interviews can set you apart from other candidates.

✨Tip Number 2

Brush up on aerospace standards like AS9100, EASA, and FAA. Understanding these regulations will not only help you in the role but also demonstrate your commitment to quality and compliance during discussions with our team.

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed cross-functional teams in previous roles. Being able to discuss specific instances where you led a team to overcome challenges will highlight your leadership skills and fit for the position.

✨Tip Number 4

Stay updated on the latest trends in aerospace design and tooling development. Showing that you're knowledgeable about current innovations and technologies can impress us and indicate that you're proactive about your professional growth.

We think you need these skills to ace Design Manager

CATIA (V5/V6) Proficiency
Tooling Design and Development
Aerospace Standards Knowledge (e.g., AS9100, EASA, FAA)
Project Management Skills
Leadership and Team Management
Resource Allocation and Scheduling
Design for Manufacturing (DFM) Principles
Technical Documentation Accuracy
Cross-Functional Team Coordination
Performance Monitoring and KPI Management
Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills
Experience with PLM Systems (e.g., ENOVIA, Teamcenter)
Familiarity with Composite Materials and Manufacturing Processes
Simulation and Automation Tools Exposure
Effective Communication Skills

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 of the Design Manager position.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for aerospace design and detail how your skills and experiences make you a perfect fit for the role. Mention your familiarity with aerospace standards and your ability to lead cross-functional teams.

Showcase Relevant Projects: Include examples of past projects where you successfully implemented design strategies or managed teams. Highlight your problem-solving skills and any experience with tooling development or digital tools relevant to the role.

Proofread and Edit: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread your documents for any errors. Ensure that your language is professional and that your application clearly communicates your qualifications and enthusiasm for the position.

How to prepare for a job interview at Reed

✨Showcase Your CATIA Expertise

Make sure to highlight your advanced proficiency in CATIA during the interview. Be prepared to discuss specific projects where you've used CATIA for 3D modelling, surfacing, and assembly design, as this is crucial for the role.

✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills

As a Design Manager, you'll need to lead teams effectively. Share examples of how you've managed design teams in the past, focusing on your approach to resource allocation, workload management, and team development.

✨Understand Aerospace Standards

Familiarise yourself with aerospace standards such as AS9100, EASA, and FAA. Be ready to discuss how you have ensured compliance with these standards in your previous roles, as this will show your technical knowledge and commitment to quality.

✨Prepare for Technical Questions

Expect technical questions related to tooling design and development. Brush up on your knowledge of jigs, fixtures, and composite tooling, and be ready to explain how you've applied these concepts in real-world scenarios.

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