Lead Mechanical Engineer

Lead Mechanical Engineer
Location: Hethel, Norfolk
Salary: Competitive, depending on experience
Employment Type: Permanent

Are you an experienced Mechanical Engineer looking for an exciting leadership role within a pioneering, forward-thinking business?
Our client is at the forefront of developing advanced electric drive solutions and is seeking a Lead Mechanical Engineer to play a key role in the delivery of innovative projects.

This is an opportunity to join a collaborative, growing engineering team, working on cutting-edge technologies for a range of applications, including motorbikes, scooters, and outdoor power equipment.

The Role

As Lead Mechanical Engineer, you’ll be responsible for the mechanical design and development of next-generation electric drive systems. Reporting to the Chief Technology Officer and VP of Engineering, you’ll provide technical direction to the mechanical team, manage project deliverables, and ensure the highest standards of performance, cost-effectiveness, and reliability.

Key responsibilities include:

• Leading the mechanical design and assembly process for electric drive systems, ensuring performance, cost, and reliability targets are met.
• Planning and coordinating mechanical engineering standards, processes, and systems, including all relevant documentation.
• Driving consistent, repeatable product development – on time and within budget.
• Building and managing relationships with external suppliers and manufacturing partners to ensure smooth transition from concept to high-volume production.
• Overseeing prototype development, tooling, and test rigs to validate new technologies.
• Supporting, developing, and mentoring the mechanical engineering team to deliver projects effectively and efficiently.
• Promoting business values and embedding KPIs, performance reviews, and training initiatives to drive team and business growth.

About You

We’re looking for someone who combines technical excellence with strong leadership skills and a commercial mindset. You’ll be passionate about innovation, process improvement, and continuous learning while maintaining a clear focus on quality and delivery.

Key skills and attributes:

• Degree in Mechanical Engineering or a similar discipline (Chartered status preferred).
• Strong background in high-volume, low-cost mechanical design, ideally for harsh environments (e.g. automotive, agricultural, outdoor power equipment, consumer products).
• Experience working with green technologies, including motors and electrical systems.
• Proficiency in SolidWorks or equivalent 3D CAD tools.
• Deep understanding of Design for Manufacture and production engineering principles.
• A track record of successfully leading and developing engineering teams.
• Process-driven with experience implementing Continuous Improvement and Lean Management techniques.
• Excellent problem-solving skills, with a structured, root-cause-driven approach.

Why Join

This is a fantastic opportunity to work on innovative technologies within a growing, collaborative team. You’ll have the chance to shape future products, influence strategy, and make a significant impact on the development of sustainable electric drive solutions.