Lead Engineer - Bumper Systems

Tata Technologies; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A global engineering firm based in Gaydon is seeking a Lead Engineer for Bumper Systems. The successful candidate will be responsible for the design and delivery of bumper systems across various vehicle platforms, ensuring they meet all performance and safety standards. A degree in Mechanical Engineering and strong experience in automotive exterior systems are required. This position offers competitive salary and excellent benefits including a pension scheme and health plans.

Benefits

Pension Scheme – We match employee contribution up to 5%

Employee Assistance Program

Private Health Cash Plan

Up to 20% off new JLR vehicles

Qualifications

• Strong experience in automotive exterior systems, focusing on bumper engineering.
• Proven leadership in cross-functional teams and supplier management.
• Excellent problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, validation, and release of front and rear bumper systems.
• Manage engineering deliverables across all program phases.
• Ensure bumper systems meet crashworthiness and safety targets.

Skills

Automotive exterior systems

CAD tools (CATIA V5)

Project management

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

PLM systems (Teamcenter)

Job description

Join to apply for the Lead Engineer - Bumper Systems role at Tata Technologies

At Tata Technologies we make product development dreams a reality by designing, engineering and validating the products of tomorrow for the world’s leading manufacturers. Due to our continued growth we are now recruiting for a Lead Engineer – Bumper Systems to be based at our customer’s site in Gaydon.

Our Engineering Research and Development department (ER&D) is a fast growing function within Tata Technologies Limited that is assembled to work on exciting projects globally for multiple customers. It comprises highly specialized engineers across Automotive, Aerospace and Industrial Heavy Machinery.

The Role:

As the Lead Engineer for bumpers, you will be the technical authority responsible for the design, development, and delivery of bumper systems across multiple vehicle platforms. This includes fascia, energy absorbers, reinforcement beams, brackets, and associated trim components. You will lead cross‑functional teams and supplier partnerships to ensure bumper systems meet performance, styling, safety, and manufacturing requirements.

Area of Responsibility

End‑to‑End Engineering Ownership:

• Lead the design, validation, and release of front and rear bumper systems, ensuring alignment with vehicle architecture, styling intent, and regulatory standards.
• Manage engineering deliverables across all program phases (Concept, Design Freeze, VP Builds, Launch).

Cross‑Functional Collaboration:

• Work closely with Studio Design, Vehicle Safety, Manufacturing, Quality, and Procurement to ensure robust integration and delivery.
• Support virtual builds, physical builds, and launch activities at global manufacturing sites.
• Lead technical discussions with Tier 1 suppliers, ensuring timely delivery of prototypes, tooling, and production parts.
• Review and approve DFMEAs, DVPs, and PPAP documentation.

Performance & Compliance:

• Ensure bumper systems meet crashworthiness, pedestrian protection, durability, and NVH targets.
• Validate compliance with global safety regulations (FMVSS, ECE R42, GTR, etc.).
• Drive adoption of lightweight materials, modular designs, and sustainable manufacturing practices.
• Evaluate and implement new technologies such as active aero, smart sensors, and recyclable thermoplastics.
• Lead root‑cause analysis and resolution of engineering issues during development and post‑launch.
• Support warranty investigations and continuous improvement initiatives.

Knowledge / Experience

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, Materials Science or related discipline.
• Strong experience in automotive exterior systems, with a focus on bumper engineering.
• Strong knowledge of CAD tools (e.g., CATIA V5), PLM systems (e.g., Teamcenter), and CAE validation processes.
• Proven leadership in cross‑functional teams and supplier management.
• Excellent communication, project management, and problem‑solving skills.

Preferred Attributes

• Experience with premium or performance vehicle programs.
• Familiarity with injection moulding, painting, and assembly processes for exterior trim.
• Knowledge of pedestrian protection systems and active safety integration.
• Passion for innovation, sustainability, and delivering high‑quality customer experiences.

In return for bringing your expertise to our business we offer a competitive salary along with excellent benefits including:

• Pension Scheme – We match employee contribution up to 5% of salary.
• Tata Jaguar Land Rover Privilege Scheme – up to 20% off new JLR vehicles.
• Health Assured – Employee Assistance Program.
• Health Shield – Private Health Cash Plan.

If you are passionate about bringing innovation to the projects you work on and want to join a global company, then this is the place for you.

Tata Technologies: Engineering a better world.

Tata Technologies would like to thank all applicants for their interest, each application will be reviewed against the set criteria for the role. We would like to advise that only candidates under consideration will be contacted. If you do not hear from us within 10 working days following the closing date it will mean that unfortunately your application has not been successful. We will however retain your details for any suitable future opportunities.