Chassis Design Engineer Jobs
What is a Chassis Design Engineer?
A Chassis Design Engineer is a specialist in the development, layout, and optimisation of vehicle chassis systems, including frames, suspension, steering, brakes, and subframes. These engineers play a pivotal role in ensuring the structural integrity, ride quality, safety, and performance of vehicles across the automotive sector. Using software such as CATIA, Siemens NX, and SolidWorks, chassis engineers create detailed 3D CAD models, evaluate loads and stresses, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver robust, road-ready chassis designs.
Skills Required for Chassis Design Engineer Jobs
Successful chassis engineers combine mechanical engineering fundamentals with modern CAD tools and industry-specific experience. Key skills include:
3D CAD Modelling Proficiency – Expertise in CATIA V5/V6, Siemens NX, or SolidWorks to develop accurate 3D models of chassis components and assemblies.
Knowledge of Vehicle Dynamics – A solid grasp of suspension geometry, load transfer, stiffness, and handling behaviour is essential.
Material Selection & Manufacturing Awareness – Understanding of high-strength steels, aluminium, composites, and associated manufacturing processes such as stamping, welding, and casting.
Structural Analysis – Familiarity with FEA tools (such as ANSYS or HyperWorks) to ensure chassis durability, crashworthiness, and NVH (noise, vibration, harshness) performance.
Cross-Functional Collaboration – Ability to work closely with design, packaging, powertrain, and CAE teams to integrate chassis systems seamlessly.
Problem-Solving & Innovation – Capacity to address design challenges and contribute to weight-saving, cost, and performance improvements in vehicle architecture.
Day-to-Day Responsibilities of a Chassis Design Engineer
Chassis engineers contribute throughout the product development lifecycle, from concept through to production release. Daily responsibilities often include:
Developing Chassis Layouts – Designing and detailing chassis systems such as subframes, suspension arms, cross-members, and mountings.
Component Integration – Ensuring seamless packaging of chassis components around the vehicle's body, powertrain, and electrical systems.
Design Reviews – Participating in virtual design reviews, presenting CAD models, and incorporating stakeholder feedback.
Collaborating with Suppliers – Working with tier-one suppliers to manage part specifications, drawings, and manufacturability.
Documentation & BOM Management – Preparing detailed engineering drawings, GD&T annotations, and bills of materials for release.
Supporting Vehicle Builds – Providing input during prototype builds and resolving any chassis fitment or performance issues.
Continuous Improvement – Investigating field issues, performing root-cause analysis, and developing design solutions for production optimisation.
Career Progression for Chassis Design Engineers
A career in chassis design offers structured growth, with the opportunity to specialise or lead. Entry-level engineers typically begin as Junior Design Engineers, contributing to subcomponent designs and learning industry standards.
With experience, they may move into roles such as:
Senior Chassis Design Engineer – Leading component ownership, mentoring junior team members, and managing key supplier relationships.
Lead Engineer / Module Leader – Overseeing entire chassis systems, balancing trade-offs across safety, cost, weight, and performance.
CAE or Dynamics Specialist – Focusing on simulation and performance analysis using advanced tools to optimise handling and ride.
Project or Engineering Manager – Managing cross-functional delivery across engineering, manufacturing, and testing.
Technical Consultant or Freelance Engineer – Offering niche expertise in chassis design and dynamics for OEMs or motorsport applications.
Chassis Design Engineer jobs are at the heart of automotive innovation — from electrification to autonomous platforms. With growing demand for lightweight, safe, and high-performance vehicles, this role is ideal for problem-solvers passionate about vehicle engineering and design integration.
Jobs in Warwick
Located in the heart of England, Warwick is a historic market town known for its medieval charm, vibrant community, and growing economic opportunities. With its rich heritage, proximity to key business hubs like Birmingham and Coventry, and a strong presence in the automotive, engineering, and technology sectors, Warwick offers a compelling blend of tradition and innovation for professionals looking to grow their careers in a thriving, well-connected location.
What It’s Like to Work in Warwick
Warwick is home to several globally recognised employers, including Jaguar Land Rover, Contechs, and the University of Warwick’s WMG (Warwick Manufacturing Group). The town’s economy is closely tied to the automotive, R&D, and advanced engineering sectors, making it an attractive location for professionals in these fields.
Key features of the Warwick working environment include:
Innovation-Focused Industries – Warwick is a central hub for automotive engineering and future mobility, with many roles in design, development, and electrification.
Academic and Industry Collaboration – Thanks to the University of Warwick, there is a strong link between academic research and practical industrial application, particularly in STEM sectors.
Work-Life Balance – Warwick offers the career opportunities of a city with the lifestyle benefits of a smaller town, including short commutes and access to countryside.
Highly Skilled Workforce – With a high concentration of engineers, researchers, and tech professionals, Warwick fosters a collaborative and skilled business environment.
The Culture and Lifestyle in Warwick
Living in Warwick means enjoying a unique blend of historic charm, cultural heritage, and modern amenities. Highlights of the local lifestyle include:
Rich History – From Warwick Castle to timber-framed architecture and cobbled streets, the town offers a deep sense of history and identity.
Arts and Culture – Warwick hosts several festivals, including the popular Warwick Folk Festival, along with local galleries, theatres, and live music events.
Independent Shops and Dining – The town centre is packed with independent boutiques, cafes, and restaurants, offering a more personal and community-driven atmosphere.
Family-Friendly Living – Excellent local schools, safe neighbourhoods, and leisure facilities make Warwick a great place to raise a family.
Commuting in Warwick: Convenient and Connected
Warwick is strategically located for easy access to major UK cities and business centres. Commuting to and from the town is straightforward thanks to:
Road Access – Close to the M40 motorway, Warwick has fast links to Birmingham (40 mins), Oxford (1 hour), and London (under 2 hours) by car.
Rail Connections – Warwick and Warwick Parkway stations offer regular services to London Marylebone, Birmingham Snow Hill, and other regional destinations.
Local Bus Services – Frequent bus routes connect Warwick to nearby towns like Leamington Spa, Stratford-upon-Avon, and Coventry.
Warwick offers the best of both worlds – professional growth in advanced industries and a relaxed, family-friendly lifestyle steeped in history. With its strong community, growing job market, and superb transport links, it’s an ideal location for anyone looking to develop their career in a dynamic yet down-to-earth setting.