Lead Mechanical Engineer

-; Blyth; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A cutting-edge automation startup is seeking a Lead Mechanical Engineer to take full technical responsibility for the mechanical design lifecycle of their robotic systems. This role involves leading design, testing, and prototyping to develop robust and cost-effective solutions. Candidates should have a strong background in mechanical engineering, 3D CAD proficiency, and hands-on experience in manufacturing processes. This position offers a unique opportunity to work on innovative technology that enhances operational efficiency within the warehouse automation sector.

Qualifications

• Significant experience in designing and testing complex mechanical systems.
• Expert-level proficiency in CAD software.
• Hands-on experience with system assembly and validation.

Responsibilities

• Lead mechanical design and testing for robotic tile products.
• Develop solutions from concept to production.
• Collaborate with multi-disciplinary teams.

Skills

Mechanical design

Prototyping

Testing

3D CAD software

DFM principles

Education

Degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field

Tools

SolidWorks

Job description

Purpose of Position

VersaTile is a cutting‑edge startup revolutionizing warehouse automation through intelligent robotics. Originating from Tharsus Group, known for delivering automation solutions to industry giants like Ocado, VersaTile is disruptive technology that uses a dynamic “intelligent floor” to massively increasing the efficiency of operations.

Take full technical responsibility for the complete mechanical engineering lifecycle of VersaTile Automation’s robotic systems. This role will own all aspects of mechanical design, analysis, prototyping, and testing, ensuring the development of robust, reliable, and cost‑effective solutions to support the company's product roadmap. Pro‑actively manage the design‑for‑manufacture (DFM) process and supplier relationships to ensure system performance and reliability. As the lead mechanical authority, this position will establish best practices and technical standards for the function, collaborating with multi‑disciplinary teams to deliver cutting‑edge, production‑ready automation products. Over time, this role will lead other mechanical engineers.

Key Accountabilities

• Lead and own all aspects of mechanical design, analysis, prototyping, and testing for our advanced robotic tile products.
• Develop robust solutions from initial concept through to detailed design, simulation (FEA), and full‑scale production.
• Apply rigorous DFM (Design for Manufacture) principles, working closely with manufacturing partners to ensure your designs are efficient, reliable, and cost‑effective.
• Conduct hands‑on testing and validation to prove system performance and reliability, iterating on designs to perfection.
• Collaborate closely with a multi‑disciplinary team of software engineers, applied scientists, and academic partners to integrate your mechanical systems into a cohesive, intelligent product.
• Manage technical relationships with suppliers and external partners to source and develop critical components.

Education, Experience & Knowledge

• A degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related technical field.
• Significant, demonstrable experience in designing and testing complex mechanical systems (e.g., robotics, automation, mechatronics, or special‑purpose machinery).
• Expert‑level proficiency in 3D CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, Onshape, etc.).
• Deep, practical knowledge of a wide range of manufacturing techniques (e.g., CNC machining, injection moulding, sheet metal fabrication, 3D printing) and DFM.
• Hands‑on experience with system assembly, integration, and validation, including tolerance analysis and BOM management.

Core competencies and skills

• Passionate about applying deep knowledge to solve complex, real‑world problems.
• Proven track record of taking sophisticated mechanical systems from a prototype right through to a fully validated, production‑ready solution that's deployed at massive scale.
• A self‑starter who thrives on autonomy and technical ownership.
• A “first‑principles” approach to problem‑solving.
• Ability to work autonomously in a fast‑paced R&D environment. }