Design Engineer - Controls

Crane Building Services & Utilities; Ipswich; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading building services provider in Ipswich is seeking a Design Engineer – Electromechanical & Controls to design and develop innovative control valves and systems for HVAC applications. The role involves collaborating within a dynamic team to deliver new product development projects. Ideal candidates will have a BEng or equivalent in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering, experience in electromechanical design, and proficiency with 3D CAD tools such as Creo. Strong communication and problem-solving skills are essential for success in this role.

Qualifications

• Experience in electromechanical design, preferably in HVAC or building services.
• Understanding of hardware circuit design and PCB layout.
• Working knowledge of low-voltage systems and wiring diagrams.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop control valves and systems for HVAC applications.
• Support new product development and value engineering projects.
• Manage project files throughout the NPD stage-gate process.

Skills

3D CAD proficiency (preferably Creo/Pro Engineer)

Electromechanical design

Attention to detail

Strong communication skills

Problem-solving

Education

BEng, HND or equivalent in Mechanical, Electrical, or Mechatronics Engineering

Tools

Tridium Niagara Framework

MS Office

Job description

We are seeking a Design Engineer – Electromechanical & Controls, who will be responsible for the design and development of control valves and associated controls and systems for Building Services HVAC applications. You will work within a small team of engineers and collaborate closely with other business functions to deliver New Product Development (NPD) and Value Engineering (VE) projects that support energy efficiency and smart building strategies.

Principle Responsibilities

• Report to a Senior Engineer and contribute to a small, dynamic team delivering NPD and VE projects to agreed timelines, focused on control valves and associated controls and systems for HVAC applications.
• Work on multiple projects simultaneously, supporting team members to achieve targets.
• Demonstrate a passion for innovation, research, and development in electromechanical systems.
• Create and present concept designs for actuation and control solutions, converting ideas into practical designs.
• Act as a technical point of contact for site issues and provide high-level support to customers and the Sales team.
• Support engagement with customers to gain market insights and support new product development.
• Proficient in 3D CAD (preferably Creo/Pro Engineer) and capable of working with 2D and legacy data systems.
• Utilize controls-based systems and architecture to design, implement, and validate integrated solutions for HVAC applications.
• Apply production engineering knowledge for components such as castings, machined parts, and plastic moldings.
• Participate in DFM, DFMEA and PFMEA reviews, and other associated tools included within IATF 16949, to ensure robust design processes.
• Hands-on involvement in test program planning and execution with Test Technicians, including prototype evaluation and performance validation.
• Manage project files to support the NPD stage-gate process.
• Recommend and implement improvements in test equipment and processes to enhance development efficiency and data quality.
• Develop control logic for actuator and valve systems to ensure optimal performance and integration with BMS.
• Establish customer requirements and translate them into technical specifications.

Qualifications/Experience/Training

• Beng, HND or equivalent experience in Mechanical, Electrical, or Mechatronics Engineering (or closely related discipline).
• Experience in electromechanical design, preferably within HVAC or Building Services.
• Proficient in 3D CAD (preferably Creo/Pro Engineer) and capable of working with 2D and legacy data systems.
• Experience with Tridium Niagara Framework or similar building automation systems is desirable.
• Understanding of hardware circuit design, including PCB layout and component selection for control systems.
• Familiarity with controls-based platforms and hardware, such as Raspberry Pi for prototyping and development.
• Knowledge of fluid handling systems, control valves, and actuators desirable.
• Working knowledge of low-voltage systems (12V/24V) and wiring diagrams.
• Familiarity with Building Management Systems (BMS) and communication protocols (BACnet, Modbus) is highly desirable.
• Proven track record in NPD and innovation, working within cross-functional teams to deliver projects on time and budget.
• Competent in MS Office tools.

Personal Characteristics

• Professional, organized and motivated Design Engineer that can work in multifunctional teams with a positive attitude.
• Passionate about innovation and energy-efficient solutions for modern buildings.
• Strong communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to present ideas clearly.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to balance performance, risk, and time constraints.
• Proactive problem solver with a pragmatic and solutions-focused approach.
• Self-motivated and accountable, able to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced project environment.