Mechanical Design Engineer

Perfect Placement; Waterlooville; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 70,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible working

Part-time options

Remote options

Heritage vehicle projects

Mentorship & leadership

Professional development

Job summary

Perfect Placement is recruiting a Mechanical Design Engineer for a heritage-focused company based in Waterlooville. The role targets experienced engineers with a passion for classic vehicle restoration, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern engineering.

You will lead design efforts, create detailed CAD models and drawings, and mentor junior staff while overseeing multiple projects from concept through to manufacturing. A unique opportunity in a niche automotive field awaits.

Qualifications

• A Mechanical Engineering degree or equivalent industry experience.
• Proficient in CAD software (SolidWorks or equivalent).
• Experience designing mechanical systems for automotive or heritage vehicles.
• Experience with reverse engineering and 3D scanning.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of mechanical components and assemblies for historic and classic vehicles.
• Produce detailed 3D CAD models, engineering drawings, and technical documentation.
• Reverse engineer obsolete vehicle parts through physical measurements, 3D scanning, and CAD modelling.
• Develop mechanical systems such as suspension, steering, braking, and drivetrain components.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior engineering staff and technicians.
• Review and approve engineering drawings and design releases.
• Manage multiple projects from concept through to manufacturing and testing.
• Collaborate with fabrication teams to ensure designs are practical and manufacturable.
• Resolve manufacturing and assembly issues promptly. Maintain accurate technical documentation and revision control.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Independent working

Cross-functional collaboration

Problem solving

Education

Mechanical Engineering degree

Tools

SolidWorks

Inventor

CATIA

Solid Edge

PLM systems

Job description

We are recruiting on behalf of our client for the position of Mechanical Design Engineer in Waterlooville, Hampshire. This role offers an excellent opportunity for experienced engineers with a passion for classic vehicle restoration to contribute to a reputable, heritage–focused company. The successful individual will be involved in innovative projects that combine traditional craftsmanship with modern engineering techniques.

Benefits of a Mechanical Design Engineer:

• Competitive basic salary with an OTE of up to 70,000
• Flexible working arrangements, including part–time and remote options
• Opportunity to work on prestigous heritage vehicle projects
• Supportive team environment with mentorship and leadership responsibilities
• Continuous professional development within a niche automotive industry

Duties of a Mechanical Design Engineer:

• Lead the design and development of mechanical components and assemblies for historic and classic vehicles
• Produce detailed 3D CAD models, engineering drawings, and technical documentation
• Reverse engineer obsolete vehicle parts through physical measurements, 3D scanning, and CAD modelling
• Develop mechanical systems such as suspension, steering, braking, and drivetrain components
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior engineering staff and technicians
• Review and approve engineering drawings and design releases
• Manage multiple projects from concept through to manufacturing and testing
• Collaborate with fabrication teams to ensure designs are practical and manufacturable
• Resolve manufacturing and assembly issues promptlyMaintain accurate technical documentation and revision control

Requirements of a Mechanical Design Engineer:

• Mechanical Engineering degree or equivalent industry experience
• Proficiency in Solidworks or similar CAD software (such as Inventor, Catia, or Solid Edge)
• Experience with gear design, reverse engineering, and development of vehicle mechanical systems
• Knowledge of manufacturing and production processes relevant to automotive engineering
• Proven leadership skills, including managing design teams and cross–department collaboration
• Familiarity with PLM systems and engineering standards
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects simultaneously