Job Description

Lead Design Engineer – Composite Structures (Dubai, UAE)

Location: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Industry: Advanced Composites / Engineering
Company: A leading global composite manufacturing firm (name withheld)
Employment Type: Full-time, Permanent

About the Role

We’re seeking an experienced Lead Design Engineer specialising in composite structures to join a world-class engineering organisation based in Dubai. This role is ideal for a senior professional with deep expertise in CATIA V5, composite materials, and advanced mechanical design, who is ready to lead projects, mentor teams, and drive innovative engineering solutions.

You’ll take ownership of complex design programmes, support cross-functional teams, and ensure all engineering output meets the highest standards of quality, manufacturability, and performance.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of composite and mechanical components using CATIA V5, AutoCAD, SolidWorks, and dedicated composite design tools.
• Produce high-quality 3D models, drawings, and engineering documentation.
• Apply a deep understanding of engineering fundamentals, materials selection, and advanced manufacturing processes (steel, aluminium, UHPC, FRP, fasteners, fabrication, finishing).
• Oversee multiple design projects simultaneously, ensuring deadlines, budgets, and technical requirements are met.
• Review and approve design drawings, models, and technical documentation prior to internal submission.
• Act as the primary point of contact for both internal and external customers on design engineering matters.
• Provide leadership, mentorship, and technical guidance to junior engineers and design teams.
• Collaborate closely with production, R&D, quality, procurement, and external stakeholders to ensure design intent is achieved.
• Drive continuous improvement and implement innovative solutions to enhance product performance and manufacturability.

Experience & Background

• 10+ years’ experience in mechanical design engineering, with at least 5 years in a senior or leadership capacity.
• Extensive practical knowledge of composite materials, particularly within aerospace, automotive, marine or advanced manufacturing sectors.
• Proven track record delivering complex engineering projects from concept to production.
• Strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder-management abilities.
• High level of proficiency in CATIA V5 (mandatory) and other design tools.

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline.
• Master’s degree is advantageous.

Skills & Competencies

• Expert CAD capability, particularly in composite lay-up, tooling, assembly, and structural design.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving mindset with the ability to generate creative engineering solutions.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills; confident working within diverse, multicultural teams.
• Ability to deliver robust engineering work in a fast-paced environment and balance multiple priorities effectively.