Senior Design Engineer – Body Structures

Job ID: #35408

We are seeking a Senior Design Engineer – Body Structure who will be responsible for the design, development, validation, and release of vehicle body structure components throughout the product development lifecycle. The role focuses on delivering innovative, lightweight, cost-effective, and manufacturable body structures that meet vehicle performance targets for safety, durability, stiffness, quality, and regulatory compliance.

Overview of the Role

• Location: Coventry
• Salary Sacrifice Pension
• Employee Referral Scheme

Company Overview

The DRVN Automotive Group is a sector-leading automotive group, specialising in the design, manufacture, and distribution of luxury automotive brands. Recognised globally for our commitment to innovation, quality, and engineering, we are proudly centred around delivering a world-class customer experience.

Our recent launch of Evoluto, along with the reimagination of some of Ford Motor Company ’ s most historically significant icons – including the RS200 and MK1 Escort – places DRVN at the forefront of modern automotive excellence. These projects provide our engineers with an exceptional platform to showcase their skills across various disciplines and be part of some of the most exciting modernisation programmes the industry has ever seen.

Key Responsibilities

Design & Development

• Design and develop Body structural components and assemblies
• Create and maintain CAD models and engineering drawings using CATIA V5
• Develop feasible structural concepts that achieve vehicle targets for:
• Crashworthiness
• Strength and durability
• Structural stiffness
• Weight reduction
• NVH performance
• Cost efficiency

Support architecture and package studies during concept development.

Engineering Analysis & Validation

• Collaborate with CAE teams to assess structural performance through simulation and analysis.
• Implement engineering solutions based on simulation and physical test results.
• Participate in design reviews and failure investigations.

Manufacturing & Launch Support

• Ensure designs are optimized for manufacturing and assembly processes .
• Support prototype builds and production launch activities.
• Resolve manufacturing and quality concerns through root cause analysis and corrective actions.
• Work with suppliers to ensure design intent and quality standards are maintained.

Program Management

• Deliver engineering releases in line with program timing and milestones.
• Manage component development through design gateways and release processes.
• Track and report technical risks, issues, and progress.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with cross functional teams with a product focused mindset.
• Support design reviews and technical presentations with internal and external stakeholders.

Qualifications

• Degree or equivalent training in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or related field.
• Experience with CATIA V5 Solids and Surface Modelling

Technical Skills

• Knowledge of engineering drawing standards and GD&T.
• Strong understanding of Body Structures design principles.
• Hands-on approach and willingness to work across disciplines in a small team environment.
• Good communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.
• Familiarity with engineering release systems and change management processes.

Right to Work

Please note that this role is not eligible for visa sponsorship. Applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK at the time of application. Right-to-work checks will be carried out in accordance with Home Office requirements.

Equality & Inclusion Statement

We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and respected. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and are proud to be an equal opportunities employer.

If you require any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know and we will be happy to support you.

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