Job Title

Principal Engineer – TestingBedfordshirePermanent | Onsite | 37 hours a week: 08:00-16:00 (some flexibility)Up to £60,000 (DOE) + bonusA globally renowned and recognised automotive testing and engineering organisation is searching for a Principal Engineer to lead operations within their specialist Passive Safety division. Based at their expansive proving ground in Bedfordshire, you will manage the performance and growth of a highly advanced servo‐sled facility used by major OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers.This is an exciting opportunity to influence strategy, lead a skilled team, and play a key role in future capability development. You will be joining a business with a strong reputation for employee wellbeing, offering generous holiday entitlements, healthcare cashback plans, contributory pension schemes, life cover, enhanced family‐friendly policies, access to a wide range of discounts via their employee rewards platform, and regular recognition for innovation, integrity and expertise!Your Day-To-Day:Ensure full Health & Safety compliance, including risk assessments and safety observation toursManage and develop a small team of engineers and techniciansOversee work scheduling, operational planning, and resource allocationLead continuous improvement initiatives using established tools and processesManage financial processes: invoicing, PO approvals, and forecastingSupport maintenance of ISO17025, ISO9001 and other relevant accreditationsCreate and manage training and development plans for team membersOversee sled equipment utilisation, troubleshooting, and performance analysisMaintain and enhance sled testing procedures and documentationWhat You Will Need:Engineering degree (automotive preferred)5+ years' passive safety testing to global standardsProven experience managing a small engineering teamHands‐on sled testing expertise and exposure to Systems/Static Rig testingExperience with CMM tools (e.g., FARO Arm)High‐speed / GoPro / DSLR camera setup experienceStrong data acquisition, processing and analysis capabilitySolid understanding of global passive safety regulations, injury criteria and ATD instrumentationTo apply, please submit a copy of your up-to-date CV indicating your relevant experience. Applicants must have an existing right to work in the UK, and evidence of eligibility will be required. Suitable candidates will be contacted immediately.