Contract Design Engineer

Solid Talent; Oxford, East Hagbourne; Hybrid; GBP 68,000 - 105,000; Full time

Job summary

Solid Talent is seeking an experienced Mechanical Design Engineer contractor in Didcot, Oxfordshire, for an initial 8-week full-time block with hybrid working. You will drive detailed design through to production release using SolidWorks, focusing on precision analytical instrumentation in a state-of-the-art facility.

The role requires strong SolidWorks and PDM skills, GD&T knowledge (BS 8888 / ISO 1101), and collaboration with suppliers and internal teams to ensure manufacturability and timely

Qualifications

• SolidWorks and SolidWorks PDM experience.
• Track record turning concepts into manufacturable parts.
• Proficient in manufacturing drawings and GD&T (BS 8888 / ISO 1101).
• Experience with suppliers and machine shops.

Responsibilities

• Develop 3D SolidWorks models, assemblies, and drawings.
• Manage design revisions using SolidWorks PDM.
• Apply GD&T per BS 8888 / ISO 1101.
• Support components in harsh chemical environments.
• Collaborate with suppliers and internal engineers to improve manufacturability.
• Support prototypes, testing, and production release.

Skills

Mechanical design

SolidWorks

SolidWorks PDM

Tools

SolidWorks

SolidWorks PDM

Job description

Oxfordshire, United Kingdom | Posted on 22/10/2026

• Work Experience SolidWorks, SolidWorks PDM, Mechanical Design Engineer, Mechanical Contractor, Precision Engineering, Machined Components, GD&T, BS 8888, ISO 1101, Instrumentation, Analytical Instruments, Scientific Instrumentation, Opto Mechanical, Process Equipmen
• City Oxfordshire
• Province Oxfordshire
• Country United Kingdom
• Postal Code OX11

Job Description

Contract Term – 8 weeks (initially, extension confirmed)

Location – Hybrid in Didcot, Oxfordshire

Join a pioneer in advanced industrial measurement systems and high-performance analytical instrumentation. Operating out of a state-of-the-art facility, they develop precision optical and mechanical measurement products that enable global clients to analyse and optimise complex chemical and manufacturing processes in real time.

We are looking for an experienced Mechanical Design Engineer contractor proficient in SolidWorks to accelerate the development programme for the next generation of our client’s flagship analytical instrument. In this role, you will drive detailed design activities through to manufacture, assembly, and full production release.

Contract Structure & Project Phasing

This assignment will begin with an initial 8-week full-time block focused on completing detailed design, prototyping, and refining the product ahead of low-volume production. Following this phase, there will be a brief interim period where work will be supplied on an ad-hoc / part-time basis during initial testing and feedback, followed by a full-time push to support full-scale manufacturing and the official product launch.

Responsibilities, but are not limited to

• Develop, refine, and maintain detailed 3D SolidWorks models, assemblies, and manufacturing drawings
  
• Manage design revisions and configuration control using SolidWorks PDM
  
• Apply GD&T principles in accordance with BS 8888 and ISO 1101
  
• Support mechanical design for components operating in harsh industrial chemical environments
  
• Liaise directly with suppliers, machine shops, and internal engineers to improve manufacturability, generate RFQs, and support procurement
  
• Support prototype builds, testing, and evaluation, generating assembly documentation and work instructions for smooth production release
  

Experiences required

• Strong commercial experience with SolidWorks and SolidWorks PDM
  
• Proven mechanical design track record taking complex machined components and assemblies from concept through to manufacture
  
• High proficiency in producing manufacturing drawings and applying GD&T (BS 8888 / ISO 1101)
  
• Direct experience engaging with suppliers, machine shops, and multidisciplinary product development teams
  
• Desirable: Experience with scientific/analytical instrumentation, opto-mechanical assemblies, industrial process equipment, sealing systems/O-rings (ISO 3601), or specialised materials (Hastelloy C276, Titanium alloys, 316/316L Stainless Steel)
  

Additional Information:

Circa 37.5 Hours | Monday to Friday | 9am to 5:30pm | 1 Hour Lunch | Hybrid (3 days office, 2 at home)