Warwick
Exterior Lead Engineer – Automotive (Contract) 📍 Gaydon / Whitley, UK | 💼 6-Month Contract (Inside IR35) | 🏢 Office-Based About the Role Our client, a top global organization, is looking for a highly skilled Exterior Lead Engineer to join a leading UK automotive OEM, working on cutting-edge vehicle programs that define the future of sustainable and premium mobility. You’ll be responsible for leading the design, development, and delivery of key exterior systems — including bumpers, grilles, finishers, and underfloor systems — from concept through to production. This is an opportunity to work directly with OEM engineering teams, influence design at a global level, and help deliver world-class vehicles that embody innovation, performance, and craftsmanship. Key Responsibilities • Lead the design and development of exterior systems (bumpers, grilles, exterior finishers, underfloor components) from concept to launch., • Deliver commodity plans to meet quality, cost, and timing targets., • Manage engineering releases, APQP deliverables, change requests, and supplier coordination., • Plan and oversee component testing and validation, ensuring all designs meet performance and regulatory standards., • Resolve technical issues across component, system, and vehicle levels., • Maintain up-to-date documentation including design analysis, quality history, and regulatory compliance. Essential Skills & Experience • Proven experience in automotive exterior systems engineering., • Hands-on expertise in bumpers, grilles, exterior trim, appliques, and underfloor shields., • Strong CAD proficiency (CATIA V6 / 3DX)., • In-depth understanding of plastic injection molding, tooling, and manufacturing processes., • Familiarity with aerodynamics, pedestrian safety, and automotive quality standards., • Demonstrated ability to lead projects or technical workstreams within an OEM or Tier 1 environment., • Degree in Mechanical or Automotive Engineering (or equivalent). Desirable Skills • Experience in product creation & delivery (PCD) and change management processes., • Strong problem-solving capability using structured methodologies., • Knowledge of component verification methods at system and vehicle level., • Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills., • Experience with project management or agile methodologies. Why Apply? • Direct collaboration with a leading UK automotive OEM., • Exposure to end-to-end product development on next-generation vehicle programs., • Opportunity to influence key design decisions in a global engineering environment. If this is relevant, please apply with your CV and we will be in touch.