Verification & Validation Engineer (Niche Low Volume Vehicles)
15 hours ago
Coventry
The DRVN Automotive Group are seeking a Verification & Validation Engineer to join our team in a low-volume vehicle environment where innovation, craftsmanship, and rapid iteration are at the core of everything we do. In this role, you will take ownership of ensuring that each vehicle and its systems meet engineering, safety, performance, and legal requirements. The V&V Engineer will play a critical role in bridging hands-on testing and validation activities with the specific demands of IVA homologation across DRVN’s vehicle portfolio. You will work closely with designers, prototype technicians, suppliers, and build teams to ensure each product achieves certification efficiently, while preserving the character, intent, and quality of the vehicle. Overview of the Role • Verification & Validation Engineer (Niche Low‑Volume Vehicles), • Salary: £ 35,000 - £40,000 DOE, • Holidays: 33 Days Holidays, • Pension / Healthcare / Life Insurance, • Employee Referral Scheme, • Location: Coventry 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 Test Planning & Execution • Take ownership of developing a robust DVP plan at system and vehicle level., • Define and develop test plans, methods, and procedures for vehicle and system-level validation., • Execute laboratory, rig, and vehicle tests including durability, performance, thermal, NVH, and functional evaluations., • Support prototype builds and ensure readiness of test assets, instrumentation, and measurement systems., • Support vehicle evaluations on test tracks, proving grounds, and public roads (where appropriate)., • Specify instrumentation requirements and configure data capture equipment (Analogue sensors, NVH equipment, thermocouples, etc.)., • Collect, process, and analyse test data to identify issues, trends, and opportunities for improvement., • Interface with suppliers, test facilities, and internal/external engineering partners., • Provide input during design reviews, programme reviews, and gateway assessments., • Own the Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) process for all development and customer vehicles., • Conduct early compliance assessments to influence design decisions without compromising the character of bespoke features., • Prepare technical evidence packs, test results, drawings, and design rationale for approval authorities., • Support pre-IVA inspections and guide workshop and build teams through any modifications needed., • Liaise directly with DVSA, test centres, and regulatory bodies, ensuring smooth certification for each vehicle., • Track regulatory changes that specifically impact low-volume manufacturers and coach the business on their implications. Essential Skills • Degree in Automotive, Mechanical, Electrical Engineering or equivalent hands-on industry experience., • Minimum 3+ years’ experience with V&V, test engineering, or system validation in a low-volume or prototype-heavy environment., • Understanding of vehicle systems and architecture (chassis, body, electrical, powertrain, etc)., • Able to interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and CAE results., • Hands-on experience with instrumentation, sensors, and data logging systems., • Excellent problem-solving ability and a methodical approach to validation activities., • Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to produce high-quality technical reports., • Ability to work independently as well as part of a cross-functional team., • Confident working directly on vehicles alongside technicians and craftsmen. Desirable Experience • Knowledge of automotive standards and regulatory requirements (ISO, UNECE, safety standards)., • Familiarity with DFMEA/PFMEA and robust engineering principles., • Workshop experience: fabrication, prototype assembly, diagnostics, or troubleshooting., • Proving ground driving qualifications or professional driver development., • Proven understanding of IVA regulatory requirements and how to practically apply them to bespoke builds., • Working knowledge of UNECE regulations relevant to niche manufacturers., • Relationship experience with DVSA or third‑party homologation agencies. 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