Design Engineer, Special Vehicles

Job Summary

The Design Engineer is responsible for developing and modifying designs for ambulance and special-purpose vehicle conversions. The role includes preparing 2D/3D layouts, detailed technical drawings, Bills of Quantities (BOQs), and installation details using SolidWorks and other relevant design software.

The position requires strong knowledge of vehicle interior layouts, medical equipment integration, electrical and mechanical interfaces, materials selection, space optimization, and manufacturing requirements. All designs must comply with client specifications, applicable ambulance standards, regulatory requirements, and NAFFCO engineering and design practices.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop complete design concepts and detailed engineering solutions for ambulance and special-purpose vehicle conversions.

• Prepare accurate 2D and 3D layouts, models, assemblies, and detailed manufacturing drawings using SolidWorks.

• Design vehicle interior arrangements considering functionality, ergonomics, accessibility, safety, weight distribution, and optimum use of available space.

• Prepare detailed drawings for interior panels, cabinets, flooring, partitions, seating arrangements, equipment mounting brackets, storage systems, and other conversion components.

• Integrate medical equipment, stretchers, oxygen systems, lighting, communication systems, and other required equipment into the vehicle design.

• Coordinate electrical and mechanical interfaces, including power supply, wiring routes, air-conditioning, ventilation, medical gas systems, and equipment mounting requirements.

• Prepare accurate BOQs, material take-offs, component lists, and technical specifications based on approved designs.

• Review client specifications, vehicle chassis details, tender documents, and applicable ambulance standards before starting the design.

• Conduct design calculations and checks related to dimensions, clearances, loading, equipment positioning, and component compatibility.

• Coordinate closely with Estimation, Engineering, Production, Procurement, Quality, and suppliers throughout the project lifecycle.

• Provide technical support to Production during fabrication, assembly, installation, testing, and commissioning.

• Review supplier drawings, technical data sheets, equipment dimensions, and samples to ensure compatibility with the approved design.

• Ensure compliance with client requirements, relevant ambulance standards, regulatory requirements, and NAFFCO design and quality practices.

• Perform other related engineering duties assigned by the management.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or a related discipline.

• Diploma holders with strong relevant experience in ambulance or special-vehicle conversion may also be considered.

• Professional certification or specialized training in SolidWorks will be an advantage.

Experience

• Minimum 3–5 years of relevant experience in ambulance conversion, special-purpose vehicle conversion, automotive body building, commercial vehicle modification, or a similar engineering environment.

• Practical experience in designing vehicle interiors, equipment mounting systems, fabricated components, and conversion assemblies.

• Experience preparing BOQs, material take-offs, production drawings, and installation details.

• Previous experience in ambulance manufacturing, emergency vehicles, mobile clinics, rescue vehicles, command vehicles, or defence vehicles is preferred.

Technical Skills

• Strong proficiency in SolidWorks, including:

  • 3D part modelling

  • Assembly modelling

  • Sheet-metal design

  • Weldments and structural frames

  • 2D manufacturing drawings

  • Exploded views and Bills of Materials

• Working knowledge of AutoCAD or similar 2D drafting software.

• Knowledge of applicable ambulance standards and vehicle regulations will be an advantage.