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- Tasks: Lead design projects and guide a talented team to deliver high-quality designs.
- Company: Dynamic company in capital equipment with exciting growth opportunities.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, benefits package, and clear career progression.
- Other info: Fast-paced environment with a strong project pipeline and room for innovation.
- Why this job: Shape a newly created role and influence design project delivery.
- Qualifications: Experience in capital equipment design and strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 53000 £ per year.
A newly created role with real impact. This is not a replacement hire. The Lead Design Engineer position has been created as a direct result of increased workload and continued business growth. With the Engineering Director currently overseeing both strategic direction and day‑to‑day design activities, there is now a need for someone to step in and take ownership of project delivery, ensuring designs are executed efficiently, to a high standard, and on time. This role sits between the Engineering Director and the Design Team, playing a key part in how projects are delivered moving forward.
This is a hands‑on leadership position. You'll remain technically involved in design work, while also acting as the focal point for the Design Team on live projects. Key areas include:
- Provide direction, coordination, and support to ensure the team delivers.
- Leading design activity across multiple projects.
- Supporting and guiding Design Engineers on technical delivery.
- Acting as the link between Engineering Director and Design Team.
- Ensuring designs are completed to specification, on time, and within scope.
- Maintaining design standards and consistency across projects.
- Contributing to continuous improvement in design processes and workflows.
What they’re looking for:
- Strong background in capital equipment / special purpose machinery design.
- Proven experience in a senior design engineer or lead design role.
- Ability to balance hands‑on design work with team coordination.
- Comfortable working in a fast‑paced, project‑driven environment.
- Strong understanding of manufacturing processes and practical design.
Why this role stands out:
- Newly created position with scope to shape it.
- Clear progression pathway as the business continues to grow.
- Strong order book and long‑term project pipeline.
- Opportunity to influence how design projects are delivered.
Interested? If you’re currently operating at Senior Design Engineer level and stepping into a leadership role, or already leading design projects and looking for a role with more influence, this is worth a conversation.
Lead Design Engineer employer: SimWest Engineering Recruitment
Contact Detail:
SimWest Engineering Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Design Engineer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the engineering field, especially those who might know about opportunities at companies you're interested in. A personal recommendation can make all the difference.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your technical knowledge and leadership skills. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully led design projects in the past and how you can bring that experience to the Lead Design Engineer role.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your portfolio! If you have previous design work or projects, make sure to have them ready to share during interviews. This will help demonstrate your hands-on experience and design capabilities.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Design Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experience that match the Lead Design Engineer role. Highlight your background in capital equipment and any leadership experience you've had. We want to see how you can bring value to our team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this newly created position. Share specific examples of your design work and how you've led projects in the past. We love a good story!
Showcase Your Technical Skills: Since this role involves hands-on design work, make sure to showcase your technical skills clearly. Mention any relevant software or tools you’re proficient in, and how they’ve helped you deliver successful projects. We’re keen to see your expertise!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, we love seeing applications come through our own channels!
How to prepare for a job interview at SimWest Engineering Recruitment
✨Know Your Design Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your technical knowledge related to capital equipment and special purpose machinery. Be ready to discuss specific projects you've worked on, the challenges you faced, and how you overcame them. This will show that you're not just a leader but also hands-on and technically savvy.
✨Show Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led design teams or projects in the past. Highlight your ability to coordinate between different stakeholders, like the Engineering Director and your team. This will demonstrate that you can take ownership of project delivery and ensure designs are executed efficiently.
✨Emphasise Continuous Improvement
Think about ways you've contributed to improving design processes or workflows in your previous roles. Be ready to share these insights during the interview, as this role is all about maintaining design standards and driving efficiency.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the company's design philosophy, current projects, and future growth plans. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you understand how you can make a real impact in this newly created position.