Position Title: Electrical Problem Solving Engineer

Duration: Contract

Location: Crewe, Cheshire

*Applicants MUST have proof of immediate, on-going and valid eligibility, to work full time, and travel within, the UK*

About the company

I am currently recruiting on behalf of an automotive OEM, based in Crewe, Cheshire, who are looking for a Electrical Problem Solving Engineer to join the team.

Position Overview:

• The Electrical Problem-Solving Engineer is responsible for leading structured investigations into complex electrical and electronic issues across vehicle systems.
• Using the 8D framework with ownership of D1-D4 activities, they will establish cross-functional teams, define problems clearly, implement containment, and drive validated root-cause identification.
• The role includes leading test and diagnostic activities required to confirm fault mechanisms and provide evidence-based input for corrective action development.

Key Responsibilities:

8D Problem-Solving (Focus on D1-D4):

• D1 - Team Formation: Identify and coordinate the cross-functional team members required for effective problem-solving.
• D2 - Problem Description: Develop clear, data-driven problem statements; gather and analyse field, plant, and test data to define the issue precisely.
• D3 - Interim Containment: Lead and validate temporary containment actions to protect customers and manufacturing operations.
• D4 - Root Cause Analysis: Conduct rigorous investigation to determine verified root causes through testing, replication, and structured analysis.
• Prepare and maintain high-quality documentation of D1-D4 activities, ensuring smooth handover to corrective-action owners for D5-D8.

Testing, Diagnostics & Root-Cause Validation:

• Lead electrical diagnostic activities, including bench testing, vehicle testing, environmental stress testing, and fault replication.
• Create and execute test plans linked to D4 hypotheses to isolate specific failure modes.
• Use diagnostic tools such as oscilloscopes, multimeters, logic/network analysers, CAN/LIN/FlexRay/Ethernet tools, and power measurement equipment.
• Provide validated evidence confirming the true root cause(s) and support the identification of both technical and systemic escape mechanisms.

Cross-Functional & Supplier Engagement:

• Work closely with design engineering, software, manufacturing, quality, and supplier engineering teams to ensure alignment on problem statements and containment actions.
• Engage suppliers with clear technical expectations for data, parts returns, joint testing, and failure analysis.
• Support design reviews and updates to DFMEAs/PFMEAs based on root-cause findings.

Continuous Improvement:

• Identify recurring issue patterns and contribute to lessons-learned processes.
• Support the development of internal problem-solving standards and diagnostic methodologies.
• Coach engineers and technicians in structured problem-solving and evidence-based testing.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronic Engineering, Mechatronics, or a closely related discipline.
• Experience working with automotive electrical systems (body electronics, infotainment, EV systems, ADAS, etc.).
• Proven competence in 8D (D1-D4) execution, including interim containment and root-cause analysis.
• Strong hands-on diagnostic capability with automotive electrical test equipment.
• Good understanding of vehicle communication networks (CAN, LIN, FlexRay, Ethernet).
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to produce clear, concise technical reports.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience within an automotive OEM or Tier 1 supplier environment.
• Familiarity with tools such as CANoe/CANalyzer, MATLAB/Simulink, Vector systems, or Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL).
• Knowledge of automotive quality and safety standards (IATF 16949, ISO 26262).
• Six Sigma or equivalent structured problem-solving certification.

Key Competencies:

• Strong analytical skills and structured problem-solving discipline
• Clear and confident communication
• Ability to collaborate effectively across departments and with suppliers
• High attention to detail and evidence-based decision-making
• Strong ownership and initiative when driving investigations forward

Working Conditions:

• Work across laboratory, workshop, and office environments; occasional travel to suppliers or manufacturing facilities may be required.
• Hands-on work with vehicles, wiring systems, and electrical test rigs.

Why work through Contechs?

Contechs is a leading Automotive, Design, Engineering, Technology and Innovation Recruitment Consultancy. Founded in 1997, with an inhouse Contractor Care Team to support all external employees, acts as an employment agency for permanent and contract recruitment.

How to Apply

If you're interested in applying for this position, submit your application and one of our recruiters will be in touch.

If you know anyone that is suitable for the role, please visit the below page where we offer up to £600 referral fee: https://www.contechs.com/refer