Contract Development Engineer

Location: Peterborough (Fully Onsite)
Hourly Rate: £42.77 per hour
Equivalent Day Rate: £320.78 per day (Based on a 37.5-hour week)
Duration: 12 Months (Strong likelihood of extension)
Working Hours: 37.5 hours per week (Flexible start/finish times: Mon-Thu 8:30-16:45, Fri 8:30-16:15)

We are seeking a skilled and collaborative Development Engineer to join a close-knit, high-performing team of 10 engineering specialists in Peterborough. This is a high-impact, 12-month contract role where you will balance cutting-edge New Product Introduction (NPI) projects with vital current product optimization.

If you are looking for a hands-on technical challenge where your work directly shapes engine performance, component lifespan, and green energy readiness, this is the contract for you.

The Opportunity: What You Will Do

Split across two vital workstreams, you will have a direct impact on both new developments and sustaining engineering:

• New Product Introduction (NPI): Help take a relatively new, clean-sheet engine platform to the next level. You will focus on stretching engine power output, advancing component revisions, and validating new parts as projects move from design into the development phase.
• Current Product Support: Drive engineering excellence by tackling factory and quality issues, spearheading cost-optimization initiatives, and collaborating closely with suppliers.
• Testing & Validation: Conduct FMEAs to identify design risks, create and execute rig and complete system validation tests, and lead core engine system validation activities.
• Root Cause Analysis: Diagnose complex production, test, and field issues to root cause using 8D problem-solving methodology, putting robust containment and permanent corrective actions in place.

What We Are Looking For

We need a technically competent engineer who thrives in a highly collaborative, supportive team environment.

Must-Have Requirements:

• Experience: 3+ years of relevant mechanical component development and testing experience, ideally within internal combustion engines (ICE).
• Industry Background: Experience from Off-Highway, Automotive, Heavy Equipment, Manufacturing, or Rail/Construction sectors (Diesel or Petrol engine experience ideal).
• Technical Knowledge: Strong understanding of core engine systems (eg, Rotating Systems, Valvetrain, Castings, Lubrication, Cooling, or Bolted joints/sealing).
• Core Skills: Proven track record in project management (planning and meeting timelines) and robust engineering problem-solving (8D, FMEA, DVP&R).
• Education: An engineering degree (Mechanical or related) is highly preferred, though equivalent extensive hands-on expertise will be valued.

Nice-to-Haves (Training can be provided):

• Familiarity with Teamcenter or similar PLM data management software.
• Knowledge of alternative fuel operations or APQP methodologies.
• Note: This is a development and validation role, not a design role. CAD/Creo capability is not a requirement.

Why Apply?

• Work-Life Balance: Enjoy an earlier finish every single Friday, alongside flexible start and finish times to help you beat the morning rush.
• Long-Term Stability: A 12-month secure contract with a strong likelihood of extension, working on a platform with long-term commercial engagement.
• Great Team Culture: Join a supportive, collaborative team that prioritizes teamwork above all else.

How to Apply

We are moving quickly. The deadline for initial CV submissions is June 23rd at 10:00 AM. Interviews will consist of a single, efficient 60-minute face-to-face stage.