Principal Mechanical Engineer

Jackson Hogg Ltd; Blaydon on Tyne; On-site; GBP 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering firm is seeking a Principal Mechanical Engineer to take a hands-on approach in designing complex mechanical systems. This role combines technical leadership and mentoring responsibilities, focusing on leading projects from concept through to production. Ideal candidates will have a proven track record in full lifecycle mechanical engineering, including strong experience in 3D CAD modelling and mentoring engineers. This is a unique opportunity to shape innovative solutions while guiding less experienced teammates.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Principal or Senior Mechanical Engineer.
• Strong expertise in full lifecycle mechanical engineering.
• Hands-on, practical approach to complex mechanical assemblies.

Responsibilities

• Lead mechanical design of high-spec, multi-part systems.
• Mentor and support other mechanical engineers.
• Produce high-quality technical documentation.

Skills

3D CAD modelling

Prototyping

Mentoring engineers

Problem-solving

Design leadership

Tools

Creo

SolidWorks

Catia

Autodesk Inventor

PLM systems

Job description

Principal Mechanical Engineer - Complex Systems

We are working with a highly innovative engineering company seeking a Principal Mechanical Engineer with a proven track record in designing, developing, and delivering complex, multi-component mechanical systems. This is a senior, hands‑on role for an engineer who has previously operated at a principal or senior engineering level, combining technical ownership, design leadership, and mentoring responsibilities.

This position will lead across the full product lifecycle, including concept development, 3D CAD modelling, assemblies, FEA/structural analysis, prototyping, testing, and production release, while setting engineering standards and supporting the development of other engineers.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the end‑to‑end mechanical design of high‑spec, multi‑part systems, ensuring solutions are robust, reliable, and manufacturable
• Provide technical ownership and direction across projects, including design strategy, risk mitigation, and problem‑solving
• Mentor and support other mechanical engineers, driving best practice, design reviews, and engineering standards
• Produce and maintain high‑quality technical documentation, including CAD models, detailed drawings, BOMs, design calculations, and test reports
• Collaborate closely with cross‑functional teams including electronics, software, and systems engineering to deliver integrated solutions
• Balance your own hands‑on design work with reviewing and guiding wider project deliverables

Essential Experience

• Proven experience at a Principal or Senior Mechanical Engineer level, delivering complex, high‑spec mechanical systems
• Expertise in full lifecycle mechanical engineering from concept, design, FEA/structural analysis, prototyping, testing, and production handover
• Strong experience in 3D CAD modelling and assemblies (e.g., Creo, SolidWorks, Catia, Autodesk Inventor)
• Experience with PLM systems (Teamcenter, Windchill, or similar) and managing BOMs, drawings, and technical documentation
• Knowledge of manufacturing processes, DFMA, tolerance analysis, and design for reliability
• Proven track record of mentoring engineers, leading design teams, and setting engineering standards
• Hands‑on, practical approach with problem‑solving, troubleshooting, and innovation in complex mechanical assemblies

Desirable

• Experience in sectors such as defence, aerospace, offshore, renewable energy, industrial machinery, or high‑precision systems
• Familiarity with mechanical testing, prototyping, verification, and validation processes
• Comfortable delivering results in fast‑paced, project‑driven environments with tight deadlines and budgets

Why Apply

This is a rare opportunity to combine technical leadership with hands‑on mechanical engineering ownership, shaping the design of complex systems while mentoring other engineers. You will play a key role in taking product to the next level of conception, creating a fully tested, operational system.