Design Responsible Engineer (DRE) - Composite Structures
UK Visa Sponsorship Analytics
Analytics are greyed out due to low classification confidence (47.0%).
Occupation Type
Engineering professionals not elsewhere classified.
Occupation Code Skill LevelHigher Skilled
Sponsorship Salary Threshold
£46,100
(£23.64 per hour)
Occupation rate applies
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Description
The Design Responsible Engineer (DRE) Signature is responsible for the design, development, validation, and production release of exterior and/or interior signature composite parts. This role owns component performance, quality, cost, timing, and compliance from concept through launch, working cross-functionally with design, CAE, manufacturing, suppliers, and quality teams.
Work Environment
Work Environment
- Office and engineering lab environment with periodic travel to suppliers and manufacturing plants as required.
- Design & Engineering Ownership
- Serve as the Design Responsible Engineer (DRE) for assigned composite components (e.g., fascia, trim, spoilers, panels, covers, structural or semi-structural parts).
- Own component requirements, specifications, and DFMEA.
- Lead component design from concept, feasibility, and CAD release through production launch.
- Ensure designs meet functional, aesthetic, durability, safety, and regulatory requirements.
- Materials & Manufacturing
- Select and validate composite materials (e.g., CFRP, GFRP, SMC, BMC, thermoplastics).
- Work directly with Tier-1 and Tier-2 suppliers on design, cost, tooling, and timing.
- Support RFQs, technical reviews, and sourcing decisions.
- Track and deliver parts to program milestones (DV, PV, PPAP, SOP).
- Define and execute DV/PV test plans for composite components.
- Support build events, fit & finish reviews, and issue resolution.
- Lead root cause analysis and implement corrective actions for quality or durability issues.
- Interface with Design Studio, CAE, Vehicle Engineering, Manufacturing, Purchasing, Quality, and Program Management.
- Communicate technical status, risks, and trade-offs clearly to stakeholders.
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Engineering, or related field.
- Strong technical ownership and accountability
- Problem-solving and root-cause analysis
- Cross-functional communication
- Supplier technical leadership
- Attention to detail with a system-level mindset
- Familiarity with cost modeling and lightweighting strategies.
- Experience in automotive or aerospace composite component development (level may vary).
- Experience as a DRE or component owner in a product development environment.
- Experience with Class-A or signature/exterior components.
- Experience in EV or advanced mobility platforms.
- Launch experience through production (SOP).
- Collaborative working environment – we stand shoulder to shoulder with our clients and our peers through good times and challenges
- As a Disability Confident Committed Employer we have committed to:
- Ensure our recruitment process is inclusive and accessible
- Communicating and promoting vacancies
- Offering an interview to disabled people who meet the minimum criteria for the job
- Anticipating and providing reasonable adjustments as required
- Supporting any existing employee who acquires a disability or long term health condition, enabling them to stay in work at least one activity that will make a difference for disabled people
We treat everyone fairly and equitably across the organisation, including providing any additional support and adjustments needed for everyone to thrive