At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative design projects for high-performance motorsport components from concept to track.
- Company: Join the iconic Williams F1 team, a leader in Formula 1 racing.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, dynamic work environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Shape the future of F1 engineering while mentoring the next generation of engineers.
- Qualifications: Expertise in CAD design and a passion for motorsport engineering.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to excellence and innovation.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.
Williams F1 is seeking a highly experienced Principal Composite Design Engineer to join our Chassis, Bodywork and Wings (CBW) group. As a Principal Engineer, you'll split your responsibilities between technical delivery and people/project leadership, making it the ideal opportunity for an engineer who leads from the front and remains hands-on with design work.
You will act as the technical authority for a complete car area or system, owning projects from a blank CAD canvas through concept, detailed design, to delivery. Working closely with teams across the Vehicle Engineering team, the Head of CBW, and Chief Engineers, you will define technical direction, ensure performance targets are met, and uphold the highest standards of quality and reliability.
You'll also manage a team of engineers, varying in experience and skills. We're looking for you to instil a culture of high performance, ambition, innovation, and trust. Your role as their team leader is to ensure your team is set up for success to deliver technically, while also continuously developing, learning, and becoming principles-led engineers.
Key Responsibilities- Technical ownership of major car systems from concept to track
- Hands-on CAD design, producing layouts, detailed parts, drawings and laminates
- Lead and govern large engineering projects, ensuring delivery to time, cost and quality
- Provide technical leadership, mentoring and coaching to engineers within the group
- Act as a key interface with Manufacturing, Quality, Prototype, Test and Trackside teams
- Support resource planning, recruitment and performance development within the department
- Deputise for the Head of Department when required
- Proven track record of delivering high-performance motorsport designs
- Expert-level CAD capability (Siemens NX preferred) and strong understanding of materials and manufacturing processes
- Able to balance strategic oversight with detailed, hands-on engineering
- Well organised, resilient, and effective in a high-pressure, fast-paced environment
- Collaborative, influential and aligned with the wider vehicle engineering vision
This role offers the opportunity to shape both the technical direction of the car and the development of the design team, within one of Formula 1's most iconic organisations.
Principal Design Engineer - Composites in Hazel Grove employer: the Williams Group
Contact Detail:
the Williams Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Design Engineer - Composites in Hazel Grove
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the motorsport industry, especially those connected to Williams F1. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about asking for informational interviews. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio that highlights your CAD designs and any projects you've led. When you get the chance to chat with hiring managers or team leads, bring it along to showcase your hands-on experience and technical prowess.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview like it’s a race day! Research Williams F1’s recent projects and challenges in the composites field. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals and how you can contribute to their mission of returning to the front of the grid.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of the Williams F1 family. Let’s get you on that track!
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Design Engineer - Composites in Hazel Grove
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Engineering: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for engineering shine through. We want to see how your experience aligns with our mission at Williams F1 and how you can contribute to our legacy in motorsport.
Be Specific About Your Experience: Don’t just list your previous roles; dive into the details! Share specific projects you've worked on, especially those involving CAD design and composites. We love seeing concrete examples of your technical expertise and leadership skills.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application for the Principal Design Engineer role. Highlight your experience in high-pressure environments and your ability to lead teams effectively. We’re looking for someone who can balance hands-on work with strategic oversight.
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’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Don’t miss out on being part of our iconic team!
How to prepare for a job interview at the Williams Group
✨Know Your CAD Inside Out
As a Principal Design Engineer, you'll need to showcase your expert-level CAD skills, especially in Siemens NX. Brush up on your CAD knowledge and be ready to discuss specific projects where you've used it effectively. Bring examples of your designs to the interview to demonstrate your hands-on experience.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
This role requires you to lead a team of engineers, so be prepared to talk about your leadership approach. Share examples of how you've mentored or coached team members in the past, and how you foster a culture of high performance and innovation. Highlight any successful projects where your leadership made a difference.
✨Understand the Bigger Picture
While technical skills are crucial, understanding the strategic direction of the vehicle engineering team is equally important. Familiarise yourself with Williams F1's vision and how your role fits into that. Be ready to discuss how you can contribute to both the technical and strategic goals of the team.
✨Prepare for High-Pressure Scenarios
Given the fast-paced environment of F1, expect questions about how you handle pressure. Think of specific instances where you've successfully managed tight deadlines or complex projects. Emphasise your organisational skills and resilience, and be ready to explain how you keep your team motivated under stress.