Mechanical Systems Engineer

Lawrence Harvey; Oxford; Hybrid; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering firm in the UK seeks a Mechanical Systems Engineer to design and develop innovative mechanical solutions for robotics and automation. The ideal candidate will have a degree in Mechanical Engineering and strong skills in 3D CAD, with experience in designing precision systems and working in multidisciplinary teams. This role offers a competitive salary and a hybrid work model.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Benefits dependent on experience

Hybrid working model

Qualifications

• Degree or equivalent experience in Mechanical, Mechatronic, or Robotics Engineering.
• Proven experience designing precision mechanical assemblies, robotic tooling, or automation systems.
• Strong 3D CAD skills, including assemblies, tolerancing, and design for manufacture.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop mechanical systems for robotics and automation.
• Lead concept design and option evaluation.
• Create detailed 3D CAD models and engineering drawings.

Skills

3D CAD skills

Design for manufacture

Engineering simulation tools

Requirements capture

Education

Degree in Mechanical, Mechatronic, or Robotics Engineering

Tools

FEA

CNC

Job description

Mechanical Systems Engineer

Are you passionate about creating mechanical solutions that bring complex robotics and lab automation projects to life?

If you thrive in fast‑paced, experimental environments, enjoy tackling challenging design problems, and want to see your ideas turned into real‑world systems, this could be the role for you.

Step into a role where your mechanical engineering expertise directly shapes next‑generation robotic and automation systems. You'll design and integrate precision mechanisms, end‑effectors, and motion assemblies, helping transform cutting‑edge AI research into functional, real‑world systems.

You’ll be in a multidisciplinary team of mechanical, electrical, software, robotics, and AI engineers, building practical systems that bridge research concepts and hands‑on automation.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Design and develop mechanical systems for robotics and automation, including custom tooling, end‑effectors, and motion assemblies.
• Lead concept design and option evaluation, capturing requirements and delivering robust engineering solutions.
• Create detailed 3D CAD models and engineering drawings, ensuring manufacturability, precision, and quality.
• Run simulations and analyses (FEA, kinematics, motion studies) to validate and optimise designs.
• Work closely with electrical, robotics, and software engineers to integrate sensors, actuators, and control systems, and collaborate with technicians and external manufacturers to realise designs efficiently and cost‑effectively.
• Support prototype assembly, system commissioning, and iterative design improvements.
• Consider structural, ergonomic, and environmental factors in system layouts.
• Contribute to best practices for design reviews, simulation, and CAD workflow management.

What We’re Looking For

• Degree or equivalent experience in Mechanical, Mechatronic, or Robotics Engineering.
• Strong 3D CAD skills, including assemblies, tolerancing, and design for manufacture.
• Proven experience designing precision mechanical assemblies, robotic tooling, or automation systems.
• Experience in engineering simulation tools (e.g., FEA, motion or kinematics analysis).
• Skilled in requirements capture, concept evaluation, and verification within an R&D context.
• Knowledge of DFM/DFA principles and experience working with fabricators or suppliers.

Nice to Have

• Experience with robotic systems integration and custom end‑effectors.
• Hands‑on prototyping experience using 3D printing, CNC, or external manufacturers.
• Knowledge of engineering standards and regulatory frameworks (e.g., CE marking, Machinery Directive).
• Familiarity with agile or iterative development environments and rapid prototyping.
• Experience designing for laboratory or cleanroom environments.

Offices and Lab located in Oxford.

Hybrid working c.3 days in office.

Competitive salary + benefits dependent on experience.

Ready to help build the next generation of intelligent robots? Apply now and join a fast‑moving team shaping the future of applied robotics and AI.