Design Manager

DES JOHNSTON RECRUITMENT LIMITED; Ballyalton; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A recruitment agency seeks an experienced Senior Design Manager in Ballyalton, Northern Ireland. You will lead the design development for robotic cleaning technologies, manage engineering projects, and ensure compliance with safety standards. Candidates should have a BSc in Mechanical Engineering and at least 7 years' relevant experience, alongside strong skills in hydraulics and project management. Competitive benefits are offered, including a pension scheme and career development pathways.

Benefits

Competitive pension scheme

Healthcare and private medical cover

Company gym

Life assurance

Employee perks and rewards

Free on-site parking

Canteen facilities

Opportunities for travel

Strong career development pathways

Qualifications

• Minimum 7 years' experience in a similar engineering role.
• Strong technical knowledge of hydraulic, mechanical, electrical systems.
• Proven leadership capability in engineering projects.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and development of ATEX Zone 0 robotic systems.
• Integrate hydraulic, electrical and pumping technologies into engineered solutions.
• Drive innovation for hazardous-environment robotic operations.
• Mentor and support junior engineers.

Skills

Hydraulics

Mechanical knowledge

Electrical systems

Project management

CAD software (SolidWorks)

Education

BSc Degree in Mechanical Engineering

Job description

Location: Newry/Lislea - Northern Ireland

Role Overview

Our client is seeking a Senior Design Manager to lead design development, system integration, and engineering improvements across advanced robotic cleaning technologies. This role involves managing projects that incorporate hydraulics, intrinsically safe electrical systems, ATEX-compliant components, and complex pumping systems.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of enhancements to ATEX Zone 0 robotic systems.
• Integrate hydraulic, electrical and pumping technologies into robust engineered solutions.
• Drive innovation to optimise robotic system performance for hazardous-environment operations.
• Ensure all engineering work adheres to ATEX and relevant oil & gas safety standards.
• Provide mentorship and technical support to junior engineers.
• Design mechanical, hydraulic, and control system components for remote-operated robotic equipment.
• Lead and contribute to design reviews and engineering governance processes.

Essential Criteria

• BSc Degree in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline.
• Minimum 7 years' experience in a similar engineering role.
• Strong technical knowledge of hydraulics, mechanical, electrical or industrial machinery.
• Proven project management and engineering leadership capability.
• Proficient in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks or equivalent).

Desirable Criteria

• Experience with explosion-proof design, including ATEX / IECEx considerations.
• Knowledge of pumping and vacuum systems.
• Previous experience working on maintenance, cleaning, or decommissioning systems for oil, chemical, or industrial plants.

Benefits

• Competitive pension scheme
• Healthcare and private medical cover
• Company gym
• Life assurance
• Employee perks and rewards
• Free on-site parking
• Canteen facilities
• Opportunities for travel
• Strong career development pathways