Propulsion Systems Principal Engineer

for our Careers & Life at JCB pages

About the role:

Working within a dynamic engineering-focused team, you will be accountable for the end-to-end engineering activities (development, delivery, and launch) relating to in production support of our current diesel engine products. You will lead a team responsible for multiple engine systems, completing all problem counter measure activities and feeding this learning into the concepts for new product. (Both Hydrogen and Diesel)

You will need to support and liaise with internal and external stakeholders, plan and control the systems project progress, manage the resource within your team, offer technical guidance and direction, provide mentorship and leadership, contribute to process development and the overall direction of the team. You will report directly into the Mechanical Systems team manager.

What does this role involve day to day?

• Lead the end-to-end engineering activities for in-production diesel engine support, including development, delivery, and launch.

• Manage a team responsible for multiple engine systems, ensuring timely resolution of technical issues and feeding learnings into new product concepts (Hydrogen and Diesel).

• Liaise with internal and external stakeholders, manage project progress, allocate resources, and provide technical direction and mentorship.

• Contribute to process development and continuous improvement within the Mechanical Systems team.

• Report directly to the Mechanical Systems Team Manager.

This will be suited to you if:

• You have a degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline, with strong engineering fundamentals and attention to detail.

• You’ve led multiple engine programmes from concept through to production, ideally including medium-duty diesel engines.

• You’re experienced in leading teams and managing delivery responsibilities, with excellent communication and documentation skills.

• You’re confident in the design, development, and problem-solving of engine components and systems such as crankshafts, valvetrain, cooling systems, lubrication systems, and more.

• You have a good understanding of FEA, CFD, and combustion simulation tools, and can work effectively with analysis teams.

• You’re commercially aware and experienced in supplier management.

• You thrive under pressure and are passionate about delivering robust, validated engineering solutions.

What happens next?

Ordinarily, our Resourcing Team reviews and shortlists CVs. If shortlisted, you’ll speak to one of our Recruiters to discuss the role further. Our interview process usually consists of an initial Teams interview followed by an in-person interview. We’ll keep in touch throughout the process, but if you have any questions, please get in touch at recruitment@.

What’s in it for you?

This is your chance to join a company that values expertise not only in rewards but also in real employee care. At JCB you don’t just get a competitive salary, 33 days’ holiday and access to our company pension—you can also use our onsite gym, in-house doctor, dentist and visiting optician. We have an ULEV car scheme available for our employees too. Then there’s the JCB Rewards Hub, which gives you discounts with high street retailers. Feel like biking to work? There’s our Cycle to Work Scheme.

We value diversity and welcome applications from candidates from all backgrounds.

We’re committed to ensuring our recruitment process is fair and inclusive. If you face any accessibility challenges with your online application and require additional support, you have the option of speaking to a member of our Recruitment Team who can support you to complete an application in an alternative format. If you would benefit from this support, please email recruitment@, and a member of the team will be in touch.

Recruitment Agencies: JCB does not accept any speculative approaches to present candidates for advertised vacancies.