Design Engineer

The role involves designing systems, processes, methodologies, and component or vehicle designs to enhance overall vehicle performance for customers and the environment. Transforming concepts into prototypes for testing, validation, and refinement, ultimately leading to job shop manufacturing. Designs must meet cost, timing, and quality targets.

Overall Purpose of the Role

The Design Engineer is responsible for researching, developing, and implementing ideas for new products, technologies, components, and manufacturing processes. The role focuses on improving the performance, efficiency, and manufacturability of existing and new products.

Working closely with the Technical Director and the engineering team the successful candidate would ensures that all CAD designs meet stringent technical specifications. The role oversees the full design lifecycle-from concept through prototype development to manufacturing readiness-using innovative engineering solutions to ensure seamless system integration.

This is a hands-on role requiring creativity, technical expertise, and adaptability, often involving multiple complex projects simultaneously. The position reports directly to the Technical Director but operates largely independently with minimal supervision and is accountable for delivering results critical to major programmes and projects.

Key Responsibilities

General and Technical Responsibilities

· Design & Develop CAD designs, concepts, and prototypes for vehicle systems and components.

· Evaluate feasibility, performance, and cost through analysis, modelling, and testing.

· Resolve technical issues and optimize designs to meet quality, cost, and performance targets.

· Manage BOMs, drawings, and design changes.

· Create comprehensive part, assembly & Installation Drawings to BS8888

· Collaborate with manufacturing, quality, procurement, suppliers, and customers.

· Control engineering change & release workflows.

· Lead or support engineering improvement initiatives.

· Provide mentoring and technical guidance to junior engineers.

· Knowledge of Health, Safety, and Environmental policies relating to a manufacturing environment and engage business in safe practices.

· Collaborative and inclusive demonstrating a proactive approach to a team task ethic.

Do you have experience in SolidWorks?, · Strong proficiency in CAD and 3D design tools. SolidWorks essential.

· Understanding of various types of manufacturing processes that can help businesses optimize production, meet consumer demand, and minimize costs (automotive preferred).

· Analytical tools to mitigate potential risks and failures in design.

· Continuous Improvement methodologies

· Working knowledge of error proofing techniques

· Excellent problem-solving, communication, and project management skills.

· Ability to work independently and lead small teams when required.

· Strong cross-functional collaboration and stakeholder management skills.

· Solid understanding of engineering processes and people management procedures.

· Financial awareness with the ability to balance design performance with cost efficiency.

· Knowledge of sheet metal materials and manufacturing processes

· Strong training, mentoring, and presentation skills.

· Proven leadership and decision-making capability.

· Experience working effectively with vendors and external partners.

Qualifications and Experience

Degree in Engineering or Manufacturing (preferred), or equivalent qualification such as: HNC

BTEC Level 4 Professional Award

NVQ Level 4 or equivalent.

Macs Truck Sales Ltd is a bespoke vehicle manufacturer, offering a one stop shop for our national customer base. Our reputation is built upon our quality of design, build, testing and fit for purpose vehicles engineered to the specific needs of our customers. This is an excellent opportunity to join the Design team of the market leading UK manufacturer of customer focussed crane mounted vehicles.