Lead Design Engineer

Location: North West England

Job Type: Full time, Permanent

Role Overview

The Lead Design Engineer plays a pivotal role in collaborating with engineering, project management, and procurement teams to ensure the delivery of safe, high-quality, cost-effective solutions that meet client requirements on schedule. This position involves managing complex assemblies, integrating equipment interfaces, and promoting standardisation across engineering outputs.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop detailed technical drawings and documentation using CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD, Solid Edge, Inventor, Tekla) for components, assemblies, site layouts, and engineering systems.
• Create and maintain full site layout schematics, providing regular updates and liaising with clients for review and feedback.
• Translate conceptual designs, verbal instructions, sketches, and existing documentation into production-ready technical drawings.
• Implement and track design updates in line with formal engineering change procedures.
• Encourage the reuse of existing designs to meet internal targets for design efficiency (80% reuse / 20% new development).
• Support project engineers with technical input and drawing production throughout the project lifecycle.
• Lead the design effort for minor study works, including client-facing engagement and generation of specifications.
• Provide mentorship and technical guidance to junior designers and draughtspeople.
• Coordinate, review, and validate design work completed by both internal and external design teams.
• Drive value engineering initiatives to optimise cost and performance of existing designs.
• Conduct interface checks between mechanical and structural components.
• Participate in design reviews, ensuring follow-through on agreed actions and recommendations.
• Ensure all designs comply with relevant industry standards (e.g., BS, ISO).
• Assist the Head of Design in achieving key performance indicators (KPIs), including accuracy, on-time delivery, standardisation, and recovery rate.
• Act as a mentor and coach for junior team members, supporting their technical and professional development.
• Manage personal workload and prioritise effectively to meet critical project deadlines.

Qualifications and Experience

• HNC/HND in Mechanical Engineering, alongside a completed recognised apprenticeship.
• Demonstrated experience in a design engineering role within the bulk material handling sector.
• Sound knowledge of heavy engineering systems and customised technical solutions including, but not limited to: conveyors (belt, screw), elevators, crushers, screens, shredders, filters, and pneumatic conveying systems used across mineral, chemical, or food process industries.
• Proficient in 3D CAD software (Solid Edge or Inventor; Tekla desirable).
• Skilled in 2D drafting using AutoCAD.
• Strong grasp of engineering drawing standards and documentation practices.
• Understanding of manufacturing techniques, particularly those related to medium-to-heavy fabrication.
• Familiarity with regulatory frameworks including CE/UKCA marking, design risk assessment, and ATEX compliance.
• Excellent communication skills, capable of participating in client meetings and technical discussions.
• Willingness to travel for site surveys within the UK and internationally as required.
• Experience in cost optimisation, continuous improvement, and value engineering.
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to work independently and use sound engineering judgement.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office suite, including Teams and SharePoint.

Health, Safety & Competency Expectations (Office-Based Role)

• Promote a culture of safety in line with corporate health and risk management policies.
• Adhere to and champion the organisation’s safety and behavioural frameworks.
• Maintain required professional competencies and attend necessary training and development sessions.
• Oversee team competence and support their ongoing training and development needs.
• Participate in leadership development programmes and mandatory refresher training as applicable.

People Management Responsibilities

• Day-to-day management of team activities, including performance monitoring and issue resolution.
• Ensure timely completion of performance reviews and related HR processes.
• Oversee technical capability and behavioural development of team members.
• Foster a healthy, inclusive, and supportive team environment.