Mechanical Design Engineer

ZipRecruiter; Ampthill; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A defence engineering firm is seeking an experienced Mechanical Design Engineer for a 6-12 month contract in Ampthill. The ideal candidate will have proven experience in the defence industry, particularly with Armoured Fighting Vehicles, and demonstrate strong CAD skills. You will work on-site every Monday and Tuesday, contributing to innovative design solutions in a collaborative engineering team environment.

Qualifications

• Proven experience within the defence industry, particularly on Armoured Fighting Vehicles.
• In-depth working knowledge of CREO CAD and Windchill.
• Experience designing for harsh environments.

Responsibilities

• Develop compliant, fit-for-purpose design solutions.
• Produce both concept and detailed designs using CREO Parametric CAD.
• Support prototyping, manufacturing and testing activities.

Skills

CAD skills

Mechanical design principles

Attention to detail

Problem-solving

Tools

CREO Parametric CAD

Windchill PDM

Job description

Job Description

Mechanical Design Engineer

Location: Ampthill, Bedfordshire

Contract: 6-12 Months (Inside IR35)

Rate: UMBRELLA

Hours: 37.5 per week (4xFlex working pattern)

We are currently working a leading defence company specialising in Armoured Fighting Vehicles and associated systems. They are seeking experienced Mechanical Design Engineers to join their Engineering team on a contract basis.

This role will involve the design, development and proving of complex mechanical systems and components for defence applications. Candidates must be able to demonstrate strong CAD skills and experience delivering innovative yet robust design solutions in demanding environments.

You will be expected to work on-site every Monday and Tuesday in Ampthill, with flexible working arrangements on other days.

Role Responsibilities – Mechanical Design Engineer

• Use requirements specifications and design briefs to develop compliant, fit-for-purpose design solutions.
• Produce both concept and detailed designs using CREO Parametric CAD.
• Provide supporting calculations and analysis to justify design decisions.
• Work closely with SMEs, users and Design Authorities to develop solutions.
• Contribute to design reviews, preparing and presenting technical data packs.
• Support prototyping, manufacturing and testing activities.
• Ensure all components and assemblies meet industry standards, programme safety requirements and legislation.
• Use Windchill PDM to manage design data and documentation.

Ideal Candidate – Skills & Experience

• Proven experience within the defence industry, particularly on Armoured Fighting Vehicles and associated systems (Survivability, Lethality, Structures, Communications, Sights, Sensors).
• In-depth working knowledge of CREO CAD and Windchill.
• Strong understanding of mechanism design principles.
• Ability to carry out structural and kinematic calculations.
• Experience designing for harsh environments.
• Knowledge of materials (armoured and non-armoured), treatments and finishing technology.
• Impeccable attention to detail and ability to produce high-quality engineering documentation.
• Able to plan, coordinate and problem-solve effectively both independently and as part of a team.

Additional Information

• Clearance: BPSS to start, SC required.
• Interviews: 1–2 stages (depending on availability).
• Feedback: Typically 2–3 days.
• Working Pattern: On-site every Monday and Tuesday, 4 day week.

For more information on this role, please contact Jules Bujalska on 01453 852541 or send a copy of your CV to [e-mail]