Dimensional Variation Engineer (3DCS) - Contract

📍 Bicester | ⏳ Contract

We are supporting a leading automotive OEM in the search for an experienced Dimensional Variation Engineer (DVA) with strong 3DCS tolerance analysis expertise to support the delivery of a new vehicle programme.

This role plays a critical part in ensuring vehicle‑level dimensional quality, supporting concept validation, gap & flush performance, and robust dimensional control from early concept through to engineering release.

The Role

As a Dimensional Variation Engineer, you will apply 3D Design Variation Analysis (DVA) techniques to validate multiple vehicle concepts and ensure the optimal complete vehicle solution is delivered against aesthetic, functional and quality targets.

Working closely with Perceived Quality, Design, Manufacturing and Vehicle Engineering teams, you will help define and govern the vehicle dimensional control strategy across both exterior and interior systems.

Key Responsibilities

Apply 3D Design Variation Analysis (DVA) methods to validate vehicle concepts and architectures
Build and maintain 3DCS tolerance simulation models to assess design capability
Analyse simulation results and generate clear reports against vehicle gap, flush, aesthetic and functional targets
Support and influence the definition of vehicle‑level gap & flush targets in collaboration with the Perceived Quality team
Provide Engineering Release (ER) sign‑off across all components for new model programmes
Work cross‑functionally to define a robust dimensional control concept, evaluating both product and process capability
Attend design reviews to share lessons learned, highlight dimensional risks, and recommend optimal design solutions
Raise validated dimensional concerns through the client's faults management system
Develop strong understanding of component manufacturing processes and best‑practice tooling philosophies
Provide input into manufacturing assembly sequence and assembly concept decisions
Ensure FT&A and GD&T are applied correctly and in line with BS8888 / ISO 1101, supporting downstream manufacturing processes
Support the creation of datum strategy concepts (using GD&T) for jigs, fixtures and measurement plans
Own and maintain internal standards and training guides for 3DCS model creation

Essential Skills & Experience

Demonstrable experience using 3DCS Tolerance Analysis software for vehicle‑level DVA
Strong background in dimensional engineering, tolerance analysis and variation reduction
Solid understanding of GD&T, FT&A and their application to BS8888 standards
Experience delivering dimensional quality within new product development programmes
Methodical, analytical approach with strong problem‑solving skills
Ability to work cross‑functionally and influence engineering decisions

Desirable Experience

Degree in Mechanical / Automotive Engineering (2:1 or above) or equivalent experience
CATIA V5 experience
Knowledge of 8D / Practical Problem Solving (PPS)
Experience across a wide range of materials and processes including:
Composites
Polymer mouldings
Pressed steel / aluminium sheet metal
Castings and laminates
Understanding of jig and fixture design concepts
Basic knowledge of SPC, statistics and process capability
Automotive OEM or Tier 1 experience