Mechanical Design Engineer

Tank Recruitment; Chester; Hybrid; GBP 65,000 - 96,000; Full time

Job summary

Tank Recruitment is seeking an experienced Mechanical Design Engineer for a 3–6 month contract to design bespoke machinery and special‑purpose equipment. You will create detailed SolidWorks/Inventor models, assemblies and drawings, while exploring AI-assisted workflows to improve efficiency.

Hybrid/remote work with occasional onsite collaboration is offered. The role requires hands-on development from concept to manufacture, collaboration with electrical/automation teams, and a focus on DFMA and

Qualifications

• 3D mechanical design experience with bespoke machinery.
• DFMA knowledge and practical design for manufacture experience.
• Interest or experience using AI tools in CAD design or product development.
• Ability to work independently and manage design deliverables in a contract setting.

Responsibilities

• Develop 3D models, assemblies and detailed drawings for bespoke machinery.
• Take designs from concept through to manufacture and assembly.
• Produce BOMs and technical documentation.
• Design machine frames, fixtures, tooling and automated equipment.
• Collaborate with electrical and controls engineers on integrated designs.
• Explore AI-assisted CAD tools to improve workflows and problem-solving.
• Review designs for performance, manufacturability and cost efficiency.
• Support design reviews and coordinate with manufacturing to resolve issues.

Skills

SolidWorks

Autodesk Inventor

Tools

SolidWorks

Autodesk Inventor

Job description

Mechanical Design Engineer - Bespoke Machinery & AI

Location: Hybrid / Remote

Duration: 3-6 months, potential extension

IR35: Inside IR35

Role Overview

We are seeking an experienced Mechanical Design Engineer for an initial 3-6 month contract, supporting the design and development of bespoke machinery and special-purpose equipment. The role will involve producing detailed mechanical designs using SolidWorks and/or Autodesk Inventor, alongside exploring the application of AI tools to improve design workflows, engineering efficiency and product development. The position offers a hybrid or remote working arrangement, with occasional onsite collaboration where required.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop 3D models, assemblies and detailed manufacturing drawings for bespoke machinery and special-purpose equipment.
• Take mechanical designs from concept development through to detailed design, manufacture and assembly.
• Produce engineering drawings, bills of materials (BOMs) and technical documentation.
• Design mechanical components, fixtures, tooling, machine frames and automated equipment.
• Collaborate with electrical, controls and automation engineers to deliver integrated machine designs.
• Explore and implement AI-assisted tools to support CAD workflows, design optimisation, documentation and engineering problem-solving.
• Review existing designs and identify opportunities to improve performance, manufacturability and cost efficiency.
• Support design reviews and liaise with manufacturing teams to resolve technical issues.

Experience Required

• Strong experience using SolidWorks and/or Autodesk Inventor for 3D mechanical design.
• Proven background designing special-purpose machinery, bespoke automation equipment or custom industrial machinery.
• Experience producing detailed manufacturing drawings and complex assemblies.
• Understanding of design for manufacture and assembly (DFMA).
• Practical interest or experience in using AI tools within engineering, CAD design or product development.
• Ability to work independently and manage design deliverables within a contract environment.