Lead Mechanical Engineer - Automation Systems

Cameron; Rochester; On-site; GBP 42,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading UK-based automation solutions provider is seeking an experienced Mechanical Design Engineer to join their team. The role involves designing and manufacturing innovative robotic automation solutions, utilizing 3D CAD, particularly Autodesk Inventor. Candidates should have a Mechanical Engineering degree, proven experience in mechanical design, and the ability to manage projects effectively. The position offers a salary range of £42,000-£50,000 DOE, with opportunities for growth in a forward-thinking environment.

Benefits

Annual discretionary bonus scheme

Up to 25 days holiday plus bank holidays

Free on-site parking

Office-based role with train access

Qualifications

• Proven mechanical design engineering experience required.
• Understanding of manufacturing processes including CNC machining, welding, and fabrication.
• Confident with pneumatic circuit design.

Responsibilities

• Develop mechanical concepts and detailed designs for robotic automation equipment.
• Perform design calculations and manage risk assessments.
• Collaborate with customers and manage project documentation.

Skills

Mechanical design engineering experience

3D CAD skills, preferably Autodesk Inventor

Strong communication skills

Project management skills

Independent work skills

Education

Mechanical Engineering degree (B.Sc. or higher)

Tools

Autodesk Inventor

Microsoft Office

Job description

They are seeking an experienced Mechanical Design Engineer to join their team and play a key role in designing and manufacturing turnkey automation solutions. This is an office-based role, working closely with the internal engineering team.

Responsibilities

• Develop mechanical concepts and detailed designs for robotic automation equipment using 3D CAD (Autodesk Inventor)
• Perform design calculations, verification tasks, and manage risk assessments
• Collaborate with customers, lead design review meetings, and manage project documentation, including CE/UKCA compliance
• Specify, source, and cost of bought-in components
• Oversee subcontractors and support the build, commissioning, and testing stages
• Work closely with electrical and control system teams throughout projects
• Mentor junior engineers and support continuous design improvements
• Attend internal project updates and ensure deadlines are met
• Travel to UK-based site surveys and customer meetings as required

Qualifications

• Mechanical Engineering degree (B.Sc. or higher) or equivalent industry experience
• Proven mechanical design engineering experience
• Strong 3D CAD skills, preferably Autodesk Inventor
• Understanding of manufacturing processes: CNC milling, welding, fabrication, and assembly
• Knowledge of geometric tolerances and British technical/legislative standards
• Experience with design calculations, risk assessments, and CE/UKCA documentation
• Confident with pneumatic circuit design
• Strong communication and project management skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team

Desirable / Beneficial

• Mentoring experience for junior engineers
• Familiarity with robotic automation and bespoke end-of-arm tooling
• Knowledge of Lean, Six Sigma, or 5S principles
• Experience with ABB Robot Studio for simulations and reach tests
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, including Gantt chart creation

Our client is a leading UK-based industrial robot integrator and automation systems supplier, providing innovative automation solutions across all sectors of manufacturing.

Salary: £42,000-£50,000 DOE, with paid overtime (1.25x weekdays, 1.5x Saturdays, 2x Sundays)

• Annual discretionary bonus scheme
• Up to 25 days holiday plus bank holidays
• Free on-site parking
• Office-based role with convenient train access (Rochester station within walking distance)
• Opportunity to grow with a forward-thinking robotics integration company