Automotive Design Engineer in Exeter

We are the internal recruitment partner for our client, a globally recognised leader in high-performance fluid transfer systems, supplying the automotive, motorsport, motorcycle, defence, and industrial sectors. With operations across the UK, USA, Mexico, and Europe.

We’re looking for a passionate and detail-driven Automotive Design Engineer to join the engineering team based in Exeter. This is a fantastic opportunity to work on cutting-edge projects supporting leading OEMs and world-renowned automotive brands, with clear progression opportunities within a growing and innovative environment.

Responsibilities:

• Owning engineering activities from initial feasibility through to production sign-off, ensuring safety and compliance at all times.
• Supporting commercial and project activities to ensure delivery on-time, on-quality and on-budget.
• Acting as a key engineering contact for customers and stakeholders, responding to technical queries and attending technical reviews.
• Interpreting customer requirements and translating them into engineering solutions and project scopes.
• Creating and managing CAD models and detailed manufacturing drawings (SolidWorks or equivalent).
• Supporting quotation activities, reviewing customer drawings and preparing technical input.
• Collaborating with cross-functional teams including manufacturing, R&D, and testing.
• Applying engineering best practice, design standards, and continuous improvement principles.
• Supporting product validation, verification, and documentation in line with relevant standards.
• Identifying cost reduction opportunities through design and manufacturing improvements.
• Participating in customer visits and occasional site travel.

The successful candidate will be able to demonstrate the following:

• Experience within a design-led engineering role.
• Strong interest or enthusiasm for automotive or motorsport industries.
• Ability to interpret technical drawings and customer requirements.
• Experience with CAD software (SolidWorks or similar) and engineering documentation.
• Understanding of mechanical design principles, ideally within fluid transfer systems or vehicle applications.
• Exposure to quality frameworks such as ISO9001 or IATF16949 (advantageous).
• Excellent attention to detail with a proactive, methodical approach to problem solving.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to work across multiple stakeholders.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities effectively.
• Degree in Engineering is desirable but not essential – relevant hands-on experience will be considered.

In return we are offering:

• Competitive salary, depending on skills and experience.
• Pension Scheme.
• Working hours – 8:30am – 5pm Monday to Thursday and 8:30am – 2:30pm Friday.
• 20 days holiday plus bank holidays and Christmas closure.

This role offers a high level of autonomy, the opportunity to work on exciting OEM projects, and a clear path for progression within a supportive and forward-thinking engineering team.

Interested? Then APPLY now for immediate consideration.