Mechanical Design Engineer - CONTRACT

ZipRecruiter; Bristol; Hybrid; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company is seeking a Mechanical Design Engineer for a 6-month contract opportunity outside IR35. This role offers the chance to work in a cutting-edge engineering team focused on the automotive and high-tech sectors, tackling real-world engineering challenges. You'll be responsible for designing components, managing risks, and verifying solutions using advanced methodologies. If you're passionate about engineering and ready for a contract role, we invite you to apply.

Benefits

Competitive daily rate

Opportunities for contract extension

Qualifications

• Foundation in mechanical engineering and applied physics.
• Experience designing for low-volume manufacture.
• Proficient in CAD for 3D modelling and drafting.

Responsibilities

• Design mechanical components and sub-assemblies.
• Manage design risks through FMEA.
• Verify and validate mechanical solutions.

Skills

Mechanical Engineering

Problem-Solving

Product Development

CAD Proficiency

Technical Documentation

Tools

SolidWorks

Creo

CATIA

Job description

Job Description

Mechanical Design Engineer – 6 month Contract Opportunity Outside IR35

Hybrid: Onsite 2 days per month

We’re looking for an experienced Mechanical Design Engineer to join a cutting-edge engineering team delivering next- technology in the automotive and high-tech sectors.

This is a 6 month contract ideal for professionals who thrive in fast-paced, technically demanding environments, and who bring deep expertise in mechanical design, problem-solving, and product development from concept through to validation.

The Role

In this role, you'll be responsible for:

• Designing mechanical components and sub-assemblies for high-performance engineering systems.
• Managing design risks through FMEA and structured risk assessments.
• Verifying and validating mechanical solutions using calculations, simulations, and testing.
• Troubleshooting and resolving product issues through root cause analysis and corrective action.
• Supporting internal build and external manufacturing teams through design release and assembly.
• Creating and maintaining clear technical documentation, including build and maintenance instructions.

About You

You’re a contractor with a passion for solving real-world engineering problems, who enjoys autonomy and collaboration in equal measure. You’re proactive, practical, and able to deliver to tight deadlines without compromising on quality.

You bring:

• A strong foundation in mechanical engineering and applied physics.
• Practical experience designing for low-volume manufacture using metals, composites, and plastics.
• CAD proficiency in both 3D modelling and technical drafting (e.g., SolidWorks, Creo, CATIA).
• Experience using FMEA and structured risk analysis tools in a design environment.
• The ability to validate your designs through calculations, FEA, and physical testing.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to produce professional technical documentation.
• A methodical, hands-on approach to problem solving and product development.

What We Offer

• A 6 month contract within an innovative, high-tech engineering environment.
• Exposure to challenging, multidisciplinary projects in the automotive or robotics space.
• The chance to work alongside a team of experienced engineers and technical specialists.
• Competitive daily rate and support from a forward-thinking, delivery-focused organisation.
• Opportunities for contract extension or further engagements based on performance.

• If you're a Mechanical Design Engineer with a track record in automotive, advanced engineering, or robotics, and you're available for contract work, please apply for immediate consideration!