Engineering Design Manager

Northampton Business Directory; Towcester; Hybrid; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading provider of packaging machinery and automation solutions is seeking an experienced Design Manager to lead product development at their Towcester location. The role involves overseeing design projects, collaborating with R&D, and mentoring a skilled team. Candidates should have proven experience in engineering design, strong leadership abilities, and expertise in CAD software. The position offers hybrid working and a supportive environment aimed at innovation and continuous improvement.

Benefits

Hybrid working

Flexible hours

Innovative working environment

Qualifications

• Proven experience in engineering design, NPD, or innovation environments.
• Strong leadership and team management experience are essential.
• Expertise in CAD software and sheet metal design is required.

Responsibilities

• Take ownership of product development projects ensuring quality standards.
• Oversee project design, materials selection, and manufacturing processes.
• Generate full drawing packs, Bills of Materials, and technical documentation.
• Lead, mentor, and develop the engineering team.
• Collaborate with the Innovation Lab to create manufacturable prototypes.

Skills

Engineering design

NPD (New Product Development)

Leadership

Team management

CAD software expertise (SolidWorks, Inventor)

Communication skills

Tools

SolidWorks

Inventor

Job description

Design Manager

We are seeking an experienced Design Manager to join our Innovation & NPD team at a leading provider of packaging machinery and automation solutions. This is an exciting opportunity to lead a talented team of engineers while driving the full product development cycle, from initial concept to delivery of innovative automated systems.

As the Design Manager, you will:

• Take ownership of product development projects, ensuring designs meet customer requirements and quality standards within the packaging machinery and automation sector.

• Oversee project design, materials selection, and manufacturing processes, delivering cost-effective and lean solutions for conveyor systems, production lines, and automated equipment.

• Generate full drawing packs, Bills of Materials (BoM), and technical documentation to support SAP entries and product compliance.

• Lead, mentor, and develop direct reports, fostering a collaborative and high-performing team environment.

• Collaborate closely with the Innovation Lab to translate design concepts into manufacturable prototypes and support R&D initiatives for automated solutions.

The ideal Design Manager will have:

• Proven experience in engineering design, NPD, or innovation environments, preferably within packaging machinery, logistics, or automation.

• Strong leadership and team management experience.

• Expertise in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, Inventor) and sheet metal design.

• Knowledge of manufacturing processes, supplier evaluation, and lean design principles.

• Excellent communication skills and the ability to collaborate across multiple functions.
  

ThisDesign Manager role offers hybrid working, flexible hours, and the chance to contribute to a market-leading company in packaging machinery and automation solutions, delivering high-quality systems for major blue-chip clients. You will enjoy a supportive, professional environment that encourages innovation, creativity, and continuous improvement.

If this role sounds of interest please get in touch with Bella from ReeVR Talent or click Apply Now!!