Lead Design Engineer

  • Robert Walters
  • Derby, Derbyshire
  • Nov 08, 2026
Full time Engineering

Job Description

Lead Design Engineer

Location: Derby (On-site)

Salary: £50,000 - £60,000

We are currently working with a specialist design and engineering organisation within the rail transport sector, who are looking to appoint a Lead Design Engineer.

Working alongside multidisciplinary engineering teams, you will play a key role in ensuring design solutions are technically robust, compliant with relevant industry standards and delivered to the required quality and timescales.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Leading design activities across a range of rail engineering projects, from concept development through to detailed design and implementation.
  • Taking technical ownership of assigned projects, ensuring compliance with relevant UK rail standards, regulations and specifications.
  • Producing and reviewing 3D CAD models and detailed engineering drawings.
  • Providing technical guidance, support and mentorship to junior design engineers.
  • Reviewing and approving engineering outputs, ensuring accuracy and compliance with internal and customer requirements.
  • Participating in design reviews with customers and internal project teams.
  • Working collaboratively with mechanical, electrical and structural engineering teams to deliver integrated design solutions.
  • Liaising with customers and suppliers to obtain technical information and resolve design challenges.
  • Undertaking on-site rail vehicle surveys where required.
  • Supporting the coordination of design activities to ensure project deliverables are achieved within agreed timescales.

About You

  • Proven experience within a Design Engineering role, ideally within the rail vehicle/rolling stock or the wider rail industry.
  • A strong understanding of UK rail industry standards, regulations and compliance requirements.
  • Extensive experience producing 3D CAD models and detailed engineering drawings.
  • Proficiency in Siemens Solid Edge would be highly advantageous.
  • Experience taking technical ownership of engineering projects, from concept through to implementation.
  • Previous experience reviewing and checking engineering outputs against technical specifications.
  • The ability to provide technical guidance and support to less experienced engineers.
  • Strong communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to work effectively with customers, suppliers and internal engineering teams.
  • A proactive and methodical approach to problem-solving, with excellent attention to detail.
  • A full UK driving licence and willingness to undertake occasional site visits.

If you are an experienced Design Engineer with a background in rail and are looking for an opportunity to take on a technical leadership position, we would be keen to hear from you. Apply today!

Robert Walters Operations Limited is an employment business and employment agency and welcomes applications from all candidates