Vehicle Weight Engineer

We are seeking a highly motivated and talented Weight Engineer to join our automotive client on a contract basis.

Reporting to the Vehicle Weight Attribute Manager, the Vehicle Weight Engineer is responsible for managing and optimising vehicle mass throughout the product development lifecycle. This critical role ensures vehicles achieve class-leading power-to-weight ratios whilst meeting all regulatory, safety, and performance requirements. You'll work cross-functionally to influence design decisions, drive mass efficiency, and maintain our reputation for lightweight engineering excellence.

Principal accountabilities:
Mass Management & Targets
*    Conduct benchmarking activities against competitors and best-in-class vehicles
*    Define and cascade vehicle-level mass targets to subsystems and components
*    Track mass evolution throughout development phases from concept to production
*    Conduct mass audits and validate against CAD data and physical measurements
*    Manage mass contingency budgets and recommend corrective actions when targets are at risk

Design Influence & Optimisation
*    Collaborate with design and engineering teams to identify mass reduction opportunities
*    Evaluate material selection and manufacturing processes for optimal mass efficiency
*   Support lightweighting initiatives including advanced materials (carbon fibre, aluminium alloys)

Analysis & Reporting
*    Maintain comprehensive mass breakdown databases and tracking systems
*    Prepare regular mass reports for programme reviews and senior leadership
*   Calculate centre of gravity, mass distribution, and inertia properties (including sensitivity analyses) for downstream consumption
*   Create and maintain Vehicle Weight Attribute Load Tables

Cross-Functional Collaboration
*    Work closely with Structures, Chassis, Powertrain, Interior, Exterior and Electrical teams
*    Interface with Purchasing and Manufacturing on cost vs. mass trade-offs
*    Support Homologation team with mass-related regulatory requirements
*   Coordinate with Programme Management on timing and resource allocation

Knowledge, skills & experience:
*    BEng/MEng in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or related discipline
*    Experience in automotive engineering, preferably in mass/weight management
*    Demonstrated experience in high-performance or premium vehicle development
*    Proficiency in CAD systems (CATIA V5/V6 preferred) for mass property extraction
*    Strong understanding of automotive structures, materials, and manufacturing processes
*    Knowledge of vehicle dynamics and the relationship between mass and performance
*    Competent with data analysis tools (Excel, MATLAB, Python, or similar)

Personal attributes:
*    Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities
*    Strong communication skills with ability to influence senior stakeholders
*    Systematic approach to managing complex, multi-faceted projects
*    Ability to work effectively in cross-functional, fast-paced environments