Description
design scheduling
design standards
solidworks pdm
cad integration
dfma vave
team leadership
Externiture is looking for a disciplined, hands-on Head of Design Engineering to lead our design function across the business. This is a senior operational and technical leadership role, overseeing product design, portfolio planning, and the integration between CAD, PDM, and MRP systems.
If you are ready to lead a design team that delivers meaningful impact, apply now and help shape the next generation of public transport infrastructure with Externiture.
You will combine design excellence with engineering discipline—driving delivery, maintaining standards, and leading a skilled team of designers to produce accurate, manufacturable drawings on time. Your leadership will enable lean, efficient, and scalable manufacturing for our range of public transport infrastructure products.
Location: Thatcham, Berkshire (UK) with travel to clients and suppliers, and Externiture depots as required
- Manage design scheduling, capacity planning, and performance tracking.
- Ensure on-time, first-time-right design releases.
- Work closely with Manufacturing, Quality, and Supply Chain teams to ensure repeatable, high-quality production.
- Develop and maintain design standards, drawing practices, and sign-off gates.
- Drive DFMA and VAVE initiatives to simplify designs, standardise components, and reduce costs.
- Lead and manage the Design Engineering team (Senior and Junior Designers).
- Administer and enforce SolidWorks PDM discipline and CAD to MRP integration (123 Insight or equivalent).
- Promote a lean, accountable, and continuous improvement culture within the design office.
Requirements
solidworks
pdm
erp
lean sixsigma
dfma
123 insight
You are an experienced design and engineering leader with a strong focus on manufacturability and data-driven design. You thrive in an environment that values structure, delivery, and continuous improvement.
- At least eight years in product or industrial design for metal, fabrication, or construction-based products.
- Full UK driving licence and right to work in the UK.
- Expert SolidWorks user with advanced PDM administration skills.
- Proven experience managing design portfolios with clear schedules and delivery metrics.
- MRP or ERP integration experience (ideally 123 Insight).
- Lean Six Sigma or experience leading DFMA/VAVE workshops.
- Good understanding of manufacturing methods including extrusions, sheet metal, welded fabrications, and jigs/fixtures.
- Strong governance across BOM discipline, ECN/ECO, tolerance analysis, and drawing standards.
- Excellent communication, technical writing, and team development skills.
- Awareness of electrical integration (lighting, solar, RTI).
- Experience with 123 Insight, SolidWorks Simulation, or low-code PLM integration.
- Familiarity with BS EN 1090, UKCA marking, and architectural coatings.
- Experience within street furniture, transport infrastructure, or construction product design.
- Proven success in DFMA and cost reduction initiatives.
Benefits
Hybrid working available after a three-month onboarding period
Full-time | Permanent | Competitive Salary and Benefits
- Company pension and life assurance
- Qualification-linked pay progression
- Private medical and wellbeing support
- Training and professional development opportunities
- £65-£75k annual salary and performance-related bonus
- Generous holiday entitlement
Training + Development
Information not given or found
