Homologation Engineer

Type: Permanent, full-time

Location: Offices in South Wales and Essex. Open to hybrid working or remote depending on experience level

We are seeking a detail-oriented and proactive Homologation Engineer to lead vehicle and component type approval activities, ensuring full regulatory compliance across key markets. The role requires ownership of homologation strategy, certification processes, and liaison with regulatory authorities, supporting product development from concept to market launch.

This is a hands-on position within a fast-paced automotive engineering SME, requiring strong technical knowledge and the ability to work cross-functionally across engineering, quality, production, and external approval authorities.

Regulatory & Compliance Management

• Lead vehicle and/or component homologation activities for target markets (e.g., EU WVTA, UK Vehicle Certification Agency, NHTSA).

• Interpret and apply relevant UNECE, EU, UK, and other international regulations.

• Develop and maintain homologation plans aligned with project timelines.

• Ensure compliance with evolving legislation and regulatory updates.

Technical Documentation & Submission

• Prepare and compile approval documentation and technical files.

• Coordinate test plans and validation activities with internal teams and external test houses.

• Manage Conformity of Production (CoP) documentation and audits.

• Maintain accurate regulatory compliance records.

Cross-Functional Coordination

• Collaborate with Design, Manufacturing, Quality, and Supply Chain teams to embed compliance requirements into product development.

• Support design reviews with regulatory guidance.

• Liaise with external certification bodies and technical services.

Testing & Validation

• Coordinate regulatory testing (emissions, safety, EMC, braking, lighting, etc.).

• Review and approve test reports.

• Support root cause analysis and corrective actions where compliance gaps are identified.

Continuous Improvement

• Monitor regulatory changes and assess business impact.

• Develop internal compliance processes suitable for a growing SME.

• Contribute to risk assessments and product compliance strategy.

• Degree in Automotive, Mechanical, Electrical Engineering, or related discipline.

• 3+ years experience in automotive homologation, type approval, or regulatory compliance.

• Strong knowledge of UNECE regulations and/or EU/UK/US automotive standards.

• Experience working with approval authorities and technical services.

• Understanding of vehicle systems (powertrain, braking, lighting, EMC, safety systems, etc.).

• Experience within an SME or low-volume manufacturer desirable.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

• Excellent attention to detail.

• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.

• Clear communication and stakeholder management skills.

• Proactive, self-driven, and comfortable working autonomously.

• Practical understanding of engineering change management.

• Experience with low-volume or specialist vehicle manufacturers.

• Familiarity with electric or hybrid vehicle regulations.

• Experience with IVA/SVA processes.

• Knowledge of ISO 9001 and/or IATF 16949 quality systems.