Principal Mechanical Design / Powertrain Systems Engineer

Apply below after reading through all the details and supporting information regarding this job opportunity. Derbyshire, UK Salary: £60,000 – £70,000 + Benefits (flexible salary) An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Principal Engineer to take a leading role in the design and development of base engine systems for a well-established engine manufacturing company based in Derbyshire, UK. Note: you will work on diesel and hydrogen combustion engine technologies. The role could suit a principal engineer with extensive engine component design experience or a principal engineer with a systems engineering background but with extensive ICE systems experience. This is a principal / lead engineer position requiring strong technical knowledge, leadership capability, and a proven track record in systems-level design within the internal combustion engine (ICE) domain . The successful candidate will take ownership of major sub-systems within engine programmes and provide technical direction across multidisciplinary teams and suppliers. Key Responsibilities Lead systems-level design of internal combustion engine components and subsystems (diesel or gasoline), with full lifecycle ownership from concept through validation. Define technical specifications, lead DFMEA reviews, and coordinate design validation and verification activities. Act as the senior technical point of contact for suppliers delivering detailed component designs. Collaborate with in-house development, test, and manufacturing teams to ensure design intent is achieved. Provide mentoring and technical leadership to less experienced engineers when required. Required Skills & Experience A degree (or higher qualification) in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, Motorsport Engineering, or a related field. Minimum 10 years of post-graduate, industry-based experience in powertrain systems design, specifically in base engine systems. Proven experience in systems engineering for internal combustion engines across applications such as automotive, off-highway, rail, marine, or power generation. Strong knowledge and hands-on experience in one or more of the following systems (e.g. Valvetrain design (DOHC / SOHC), Timing gear systems, Crankcase ventilation (CCV), Aftertreatment systems (e.g., DEF / SCR), Fuel systems, including hydrogen experience, Air handling systems (e.g., intake manifolds, throttle bodies) Ability to interpret and manipulate CAD data (prior use of tools such as Creo or CATIA is advantageous). Experience overseeing validation testing and collaborating with external suppliers on technical delivery. Additional Information: This is a full-time, office-based role in Derbyshire, UK. Relocation and visa sponsorship can be considered for the right candidate. Commutable from: Rocester, Stoke-on-Trent, Derby, Nottingham, Birmingham, Uttoxeter, Stafford, Burton-on-Trent.