Senior Engineer - Transmission Systems

The Role:

• Lead the engineering, design and development of lightweight manual transmission systems.
• Own the development of manual gearboxes, including mechanical limited-slip differentials, synchronisers and gating geometry.
• Lead the development of H-pattern tactile gearshift mechanisms and associated ergonomics.
• Develop high-performance clutch systems, including carbon ceramic and advanced composite multi-plate assemblies.
• Support the design and development of high-clamping hydraulic actuation systems and lightweight driveshafts.
• Define system and component requirements, technical specifications and attribute summaries.
• Manage BoM structure, mass, design maturity and engineering release timing.
• Lead feasibility studies, design reviews and technical risk assessments.
• Carry out DFMEA from the earliest conceptual stages of design and use the outputs to develop DVP requirements.
• Work closely with suppliers on design-for-manufacture and delivery of black-box and grey-box systems.
• Ensure components and systems meet performance, mass, certification, compliance, aesthetics and sustainability requirements.
• Create and maintain working-level engineering plans aligned with programme timing.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to engineering teams and multidisciplinary stakeholders.
• Present programme metrics, KPIs, risks and technical updates to the Principal Engineer / Function Group Lead and programme management.
• Lead continuous improvement of transmission design processes, methodologies, tools and standards.
• Review current design processes and establish appropriate design and drawing standards for transmission components.
• Support the strategic development of component R&D and application for future programmes.

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise

• 5–10 years' experience in the design and engineering of high-performance transmission systems.
• Bachelor's or Master's degree in mechanical, automotive, aerospace engineering or a similar discipline.
• Proven experience as a Senior Engineer, with a track record of leading design and project engineering activities.
• Experience within low-volume or bespoke high-performance vehicles.
• In-depth knowledge of high-performance manual gearbox design.
• Strong understanding of mechanical limited-slip differentials, synchronisers and H-pattern shift mechanisms.
• Experience with clutch systems, including multi-plate and advanced friction materials.
• Knowledge of hydraulic system sizing and high-clamping-pressure actuation.
• Understanding of carbon composite friction dynamics, thermal dissipation and wear mechanics.
• Experience with engineering design, structural optimisation and topology optimisation.
• Hands-on experience with industry-standard CAD/CAE and multi-body simulation software.
• Experience with BoM management, DFMEA, DVP and engineering release.
• Experience working with suppliers on design-for-manufacture and component development.
• Knowledge of global powertrain compliance requirements, including FMVSS, EPA, CARB and European Small Series approval processes.
• Strong leadership, communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and effectively across multidisciplinary teams.
• Organised, persuasive, resourceful and self-directing, with the confidence to challenge existing processes.
• A creative thinker with a passion for pushing the boundaries of engineering.
• A strong team player.

• Provide technical support, coaching and mentoring to team members.
• Manage day-to-day team activities and delegate workloads effectively.
• Plan and evaluate team activities against programme requirements.
• Support the Principal Engineer / Function Group Lead with resource requirements and justification.
• Establish strong relationships across engineering, SQE, purchasing and external partners.
• Lead by example and promote a culture of responsibility and accountability.
• Manage conflict, resolve incidents and support effective problem solving.
• Communicate programme goals, technical priorities and key information clearly.
• Share and cascade information across the engineering organisation.