Contract - Senior Mechanical Engineer - ID: 39859

ZipRecruiter; Oxford; Hybrid; GBP 40,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job description

Job Description

Contract Mechanical Engineer - Precision Instrumentation (6-week role)

Location: Hybrid / Commutable to Oxford ~4 days a week

Type: Short-term contract (~6 weeks)

Start: ASAP

We’re looking for a sharp and experienced Mechanical Engineer to support a busy team developing high-precision scientific instruments. This is a hands-on, short-term contract role focused on the design, analysis, and testing of precision mechanical components.

What You’ll Be Doing:

You’ll play a key role in ensuring the mechanical performance of complex, high-precision systems - designing stable, stiff, and reliable components such as mounts, supports, and structural frames. Your work will directly support critical systems that rely on mechanical integrity for performance and reliability.

This is a highly collaborative role, working alongside a multidisciplinary team of engineers and scientists. You’ll bring mechanical insight, practical design skills, and a proactive approach to rapid development cycles.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design and develop precision mechanical parts and assemblies using CAD tools (SolidWorks )
• Perform mechanical and thermal analysis (e.g., via FEA) to validate designs
• Create and iterate on conceptual ideas and prototypes
• Conduct hands-on testing and make real-time design improvements
• Collaborate closely with electrical, software, and systems engineers

Who We’re Looking For:

We’re looking for candidates with a solid background in:

• Mechanical Design & Analysis - ideally with SolidWorks and FEA tools like ANSYS
• Precision Engineering - experience in scientific equipment, aerospace, or high-end manufacturing
• Hands-on Development - including prototyping and test rig setup
• Systems Thinking - understanding how mechanical design impacts system performance

Practical Bits:

• Availability: This is an urgent 6-week contract - we need someone who can start immediately
• Location: On-site work in Abingdon will be required (hybrid possible)
• Portfolio: Please share examples of mechanical systems you've designed

Interested or know someone who might be?

We’re moving quickly, so reach out with your CV, availability, and any relevant design examples.