Systems Engineer - Steering Systems

Contract position Outside IR35

Hybrid working

Proven Steering Systems development experience in Automotive, ideally Defence Vehicles.

Our Client, a leading player in the automotive sector, is seeking a Systems Engineer - Steering Systems on a contract basis to contribute to the development, integration, and validation of steering systems across a variety of vehicle engineering projects. These projects include both defence and commercial platforms with powertrains ranging from conventional to electrified systems.

• Support the design, development, and integration of steering systems (mechanical and electric power steering).
• Develop system requirements, specifications, and performance targets.
• Ensure designs comply with applicable standards, regulations, and customer requirements.
• Maintain technical integrity and system performance throughout the lifecycle.

• Deliver steering system engineering activities from concept through to validation and production support.
• Translate requirements into engineering solutions supporting system design and integration.
• Identify and mitigate technical risks and issues.
• Contribute to engineering calculations, analysis, simulations, test planning and execution.
• Prepare technical reports, specifications, and test documentation.
• Participate in technical reviews and project meetings.

• Work closely with internal teams such as chassis and vehicle dynamics, design and packaging, CAE and simulation, test and validation.
• Coordinate with suppliers of steering components and systems.
• Ensure effective communication across teams for alignment and timely delivery.
• Represent steering systems in technical discussions as appropriate.

• Apply structured engineering approaches to resolve design and test issues.
• Conduct root cause analysis using methods like 8D and fault tree analysis.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of steering system design and validation processes.

• Deliver engineering artefacts including DVP&R, DFMEA, and test plans and reports.
• Ensure alignment with relevant regulatory, safety, and quality standards.
• Follow engineering processes and change control procedures.

• Deliver engineering solutions that meet customer expectations for performance and robustness.
• Achieve programme targets for timing, cost, and quality.

• Experience in vehicle systems engineering, specifically steering systems (EPS, mechanical steering).
• Strong understanding of steering system fundamentals and geometry, as well as vehicle dynamics principles.
• Familiarity with CAD tools such as CATIA, NX, Creo, GD&T, and engineering drawings.
• Knowledge of DVP&R, FMEA, and engineering documentation.
• Awareness of the vehicle development lifecycle from concept to production.

• Ability to support the delivery of engineering tasks within project timelines.
• Experience in validation and test activities.
• Understanding of requirements management and system integration.
• Proficiency in data analysis and engineering reporting.

• Clear and effective communicator within engineering teams.
• Strong team player with the ability to work across disciplines.
• Customer- and delivery-focused mindset.

• Understanding of steering system types (hydraulic, EPS, steer-by-wire) and their interactions with suspension systems and vehicle dynamics.
• Experience in automotive, commercial vehicle, or defence vehicle engineering.
• Awareness of automotive development standards and processes.

• Exposure to simulation tools such as ADAMS and other vehicle dynamics tools.
• Familiarity with data acquisition and test analysis tools.
• Knowledge of DFMEA, 8D, and structured problem-solving approaches.
• Use of systems engineering tools (requirements management desirable).

• Proactive and adaptable approach to problem-solving.
• Willingness to learn and develop technical expertise.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced engineering environment.

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Automotive, or Systems Engineering.
• Experience in steering or chassis system development, vehicle testing, requirements management, DVP&R, and engineering documentation.
• Experience with commercial or off-highway vehicles is beneficial.

• Willing and able to work on UK defence projects, including roles requiring security clearance (up to and including Secret where applicable).