Mechanical Design Team Leader

Oxford Instruments; Bristol; On-site; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading technology company in Bristol is seeking a Mechanical Design Team Leader to guide a talented team in developing next-generation semiconductor manufacturing equipment. The ideal candidate will possess a degree in Mechanical Engineering, strong design skills, and a collaborative mindset. This role offers competitive salary, private healthcare, and a supportive culture that values growth and inclusivity.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Structured career development

Private healthcare

Flexible benefits package

Share incentive plan

25 days annual leave + half-days on Fridays

Qualifications

• Strong background in mechanical systems and mechanism design.
• Experience with design validation, manufacturing methods, and engineering best practices.
• Passion for developing people and products.

Responsibilities

• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of Mechanical Design Engineers.
• Deliver innovative component and device designs using 3D CAD.
• Drive design verification and validation through testing.

Skills

Mechanical systems design

3D CAD (SolidEdge)

Design validation

Collaborative mindset

Education

Degree in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline

Tools

SolidEdge

PLM systems

Microsoft Office

Job description

At Oxford Instruments Plasma Technology, we’re enabling the future—one atom at a time. Our tools help shape the micro- and nano-structures that power everything from electric vehicles and quantum computers to life-saving medical devices.

Due to internal promotion, we’re now looking for a Mechanical DesignTeam Leaderto join our growing team at our cutting-edge manufacturing and development facility in Severn Beach, Bristol. This is a rare opportunity to step into a leadership role—whether you're an experienced team lead or a passionate engineer ready to take the next step.

Why This Role?

As Team Leader, you’ll guide and inspire a team of talented Design Engineers, supporting the development of next-generation semiconductor manufacturing equipment. You’ll work on complex engineering challenges—extreme temperatures, high vacuum, fluid dynamics, and precision control—while shaping the future of our products and your team.

You don’t need formal line management experience—what matters is youremotional intelligence, your commitment to developing others, and your ability to build strong relationships across the business. With the support of your manager, you’ll grow into a leadership role that evolves with your strengths.

What You’ll Do

• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of Mechanical Design Engineers.
• Deliver innovative component and device designs using 3D CAD (SolidEdge).
• Drive design verification and validation through simulation, calculation, and prototype testing.
• Ensure compliance with industry standards (BS, EN, SEMI).
• Collaborate across departments to translate technical requirements into modular, manufacturable designs.
• Lead structured problem-solving and root cause analysis activities.
• Champion continuous improvement in both product design and engineering processes.
• Own and deliver engineering design projects—on time and to spec.

What You’ll Bring

• Degree in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline (preferred).
• Strong background in mechanical systems and mechanism design.
• Experience with design validation, manufacturing methods, and engineering best practices.
• Proficiency in SolidEdge, PLM systems, and Microsoft Office tools.
• A collaborative mindset and a passion for developing people and products.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary and structured career development
• Private healthcare and flexible benefits package
• Share incentive plan and defined contribution pension
• 25 days annual leave + half-days on Fridays
• A supportive, inclusive culture where your ideas and growth matter.

Ready to lead the future of design?

Apply now and help us shape what’s next. brid

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All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or disability. We encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and would ask you to get in touch if you are concerned about any barriers you may be facing in your application process with us.

Note to recruitment agencies: Oxford Instruments operates a Preferred Supplier List, and we do not accept unsolicited agency CVs. Please do not forward candidate details in response to this advert, or to any Oxford Instruments employees or other company locations. Oxford Instruments is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited CVs.