Principal Engineer – Chassis Systems

About the role

Lotus Cars is seeking a Principal Engineer – Chassis Systems to lead the definition, development, integration and delivery of chassis and suspension systems for its high‑performance vehicle programmes. Based at the Hethel manufacturing site, you will provide technical leadership across Vehicle Dynamics, Safety, Quality, Software, ADAS, Manufacturing, NVH and Homologation.

Key responsibilities

• Lead development of chassis component and system 3D data, guiding CAD Design and Release Engineers.
• Authorise technical approval and release of 3D data, 2D drawings and engineering documentation.
• Develop and manage Engineering Specifications, DFMEAs, DVPs and Design Concept Sheets.
• Drive prototype vehicle testing, diagnose issues and support road‑release activities.
• Ensure robust validation through CAE simulation, rig testing and vehicle‑level testing.
• Generate and maintain Bills of Materials in the Lotus PLM system and support supplier technical assessments.

Required profile

• Degree or equivalent experience in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline.
• Extensive experience with chassis and suspension system definition, design and verification.
• Proven technical leadership in automotive product development from concept to Start of Production.
• Strong understanding of vehicle dynamics and how suspension influences performance.
• Full UK driving licence and fluency in written and spoken English.

Required skills

• CATIA V5 (CAD)
• Teamcenter (PLM)
• DFMEA and DVP methodologies
• CAE simulation and rig testing
• Vehicle dynamics analysis
• Suspension system design and integration
• Electrical/software architecture for suspension systems
• Bills of Materials management

What we offer

• Company Car scheme (ECOS)
• 25 vacation days plus bank holidays
• Performance bonus scheme
• Future‑proof pension plan
• Private healthcare coverage