Job Title: Contract Project Engineer - Bespoke Interior Programme (Luxury Textile)

Location: Woking

Contract: 6 Months Initially (Extension Possible)

Rate: Up to £66.00 Per Hour Inside IR35

Overview

An industry-leading high-performance automotive manufacturer is seeking a Contract Project Engineer to deliver a bespoke luxury textile integration within a premium vehicle interior programme.

This role offers the opportunity to operate at the intersection of engineering, craftsmanship, and luxury materials while working with high-end design partners and specialist manufacturers.

Key Responsibilities

Project Delivery & Stakeholder Management

• Lead the end-to-end delivery of a bespoke textile feature from concept through to vehicle assembly.
• Coordinate cross-functional teams including engineering, design, purchasing, quality, and manufacturing.
• Facilitate technical reviews, supplier meetings, and internal alignment sessions.

Engineering Ownership

• Interpret and manage engineering requirements for textile integration including durability, manufacturability, and validation.
• Oversee validation activities with suppliers and ensure any issues are identified and resolved promptly.

Commercial & Supplier Management

• Lead supplier discussions and negotiations with textile designers, seat manufacturers, and supporting suppliers.

Quality & Compliance

• Ensure materials and components meet internal quality and engineering standards.
• Coordinate inspections, sign-offs, and project documentation.

Documentation & Reporting

• Maintain programme timing plans, risk registers, and decision logs.

Required Skills & Experience

• Proven experience in Project Engineering or Product Development involving textiles, soft goods, interiors, or crafted materials.
• Strong understanding of material behaviour, finishing techniques, and manufacturing processes for premium materials.
• Experience managing suppliers and leading commercial discussions.
• Strong stakeholder management and the ability to align technical, commercial, and programme teams.
• Ability to work autonomously and bring structure to bespoke development programmes.
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to balance engineering, cost, and timing pressures.

Nice to Have

• Automotive interior or trim development experience.
• Experience with bespoke or low-volume manufacturing programmes.
• Exposure to luxury materials, high-end craftsmanship, or premium consumer products.

Personal Attributes

• Professional and composed, capable of representing a premium brand with credibility.
• Highly organised with strong ownership and accountability.
• Comfortable operating in fast-moving, bespoke development environments.
• Strong communicator able to manage internal teams and external luxury suppliers.