Production and Design Manager - #2161015

We are recruiting a Production Manager with strong SolidWorks design experience to lead the design and manufacture of specialist fleet vehicle conversions.

This is a hands-on role where engineering design is a central responsibility. Alongside managing workshop production, you will personally create vehicle conversion designs, develop 3D models and 2D manufacturing drawings, and produce accurate bills of materials (BOMs). You will take ownership of projects from customer requirements and initial concept through to production, installation and completion.
The role would suit a Production Manager, Engineering Manager or Design and Production Manager who combines practical CAD design skills with experience leading manufacturing or workshop teams.

The Production Manager role

• 
  Personally design and develop vehicle conversion solutions using SolidWorks, including vehicle layouts, mounting brackets, equipment housings and fabricated components.
• 
  Create detailed 3D CAD models, assemblies and 2D engineering drawings to support manufacture and installation.
• 
  Produce and maintain bills of materials (BOMs), component specifications and build documentation, ensuring accurate information is available for procurement and production.
• 
  Translate customer specifications into practical designs that consider available space, installation access, manufacturing processes and cost.
• 
  Review and amend designs throughout the build process, resolving fitment issues and incorporating workshop feedback.
• 
  Manage drawing revisions, engineering changes and the release of approved designs into production.
• 
  Lead day-to-day workshop operations, allocating work and coordinating production schedules, labour and materials.
• 
  Support production and installation teams with practical engineering guidance throughout each vehicle build.
• 
  Ensure completed conversions meet customer requirements, quality standards, vehicle manufacturer guidelines and applicable safety requirements.
• 
  Liaise with customers and suppliers on technical specifications, component selection and project progress.
• 
  Improve designs and production methods to reduce build times, material waste and rework.

What we are looking for

• 
  Strong hands-on SolidWorks experience, with the ability to independently create 3D models, assemblies and detailed manufacturing drawings.
• 
  Experience producing and managing BOMs for manufacture, assembly and procurement.
• 
  Production management, workshop management or team leadership experience within vehicle conversion, automotive engineering, fabrication or specialist manufacturing.
• 
  A practical understanding of mechanical design, fabrication, assembly and installation processes.
• 
  Experience taking engineering projects from concept and design through to manufacture.
• 
  The ability to balance hands-on design work with production planning, team leadership and project delivery.
• 
  Strong problem-solving skills and a clear focus on quality, safety and manufacturing efficiency.
• 
  A relevant engineering qualification or equivalent practical experience.

Experience with vehicles, commercial vehicle conversions, vehicle body building or specialist vehicle equipment would be beneficial. Knowledge

Salary: £45,000 per annum
Hours: Monday to Thursday, 7.30am-4.30pm; Friday, 7.30am-2pm
Holiday: 28 days