Principal Design Engineer

White Label is representing a manufacturer in Wakefield looking to appoint a Principal Design Engineer to take a lead role across engineering design projects, people management, and continuous improvement.

My client is offering a salary of 45,000 - 55,000 plus:

Working hours: 37.5 hrs, Monday to Thursday 8:00am to 5:00pm, Friday 8:30am to 12:00pm. There is flexibility to start earlier/later to suit you.

Holiday allowance : 187.5 hrs (25 days) plus 8 Annual Bank Holidays

Pension: Work Scheme Pension with 5% contribution from employee and 3% contribution from employer total 8% after a 3-month trial period.

Other benefits: 2x Salary for Death in Service Benefit after a 3-month trial period.

Key Responsibilities of the Principal Design Engineer

• Lead and mentor a team of Design Engineers, setting technical direction and providing support.
• Oversee the design, development, and engineering of mechanical and electrical systems for bespoke projects.
• Ensure compliance with relevant standards (BS/EN, Eurocodes) and internal design procedures.
• Coordinate project handovers, technical reviews, and cross-departmental collaboration.
• Standardise components, improve processes, and enhance overall engineering capability.
• Represent technical capabilities in meetings with stakeholders and customers.

Experience required of the of the Principal Design Engineer

• Proven experience in a senior or principal design role within manufacturing or power generation.
• Strong understanding of mechanical and electrical engineering, including structural principles.
• Degree-qualified in engineering (BSc, MSc, or equivalent).
• Experience with relevant codes and standards.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and organisational skills.
• Commercial awareness and ability to balance technical and business priorities.

This is a key role with scope to shape technical direction and team development. Ideal for someone looking to step into a strategic, hands-on leadership position.