Lead Mechanical Engineer - Automation Systems

Talent Finder; Strood; On-site; GBP 42,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading UK-based industrial automation company is seeking an experienced Lead Mechanical Engineer to design innovative robotic automation solutions. This office-based role in Strood involves collaborating with engineering teams, executing design responsibilities, and mentoring junior engineers. Candidates should possess a degree in Mechanical Engineering and proven design engineering experience, especially with 3D CAD tools like Autodesk Inventor. Benefits include a competitive salary and a yearly bonus scheme, alongside opportunities for professional growth.

Benefits

Annual discretionary bonus scheme

Up to 25 days holiday plus bank holidays

Free on-site parking

Qualifications

• Proven mechanical design engineering experience.
• Understanding of manufacturing processes in CNC milling, welding, fabrication, and assembly.
• Experience with design calculations, risk assessments, and CE/UKCA documentation.

Responsibilities

• Develop mechanical concepts and designs for robotic automation equipment using 3D CAD.
• Perform design calculations and manage risk assessments.
• Collaborate with internal teams and oversee project documentation.

Skills

3D CAD skills

Mechanical Engineering knowledge

Communication skills

Project management skills

Education

Mechanical Engineering degree (B.Sc. or higher)

Tools

Autodesk Inventor

Microsoft Office

Job description

Lead Mechanical Engineer – Automation Systems

Location: Strood / Rochester, Kent | Type: Full Time, 40 hrs/week | Hours: 08:00–16:30, Monday–Friday | Salary: £42,000–£50,000 DOE

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

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.

What You’ll Do

• 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 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

What Our Client is Looking For

Essential

• Mechanical Engineering degree (B.Sc. or higher) or equivalent industry experience
• Proven mechanical design engineering experience
• Strong 3D CAD skills, preferably Autodesk Inventor
• Understanding 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

What We Offer

• 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

What’s next? It’s easy! Apply now! We can’t wait to hear from you!

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