Principal Mechanical Engineer

JR United Kingdom; England; Hybrid; GBP 50,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Principal Mechanical Engineer to lead a talented engineering team. This role involves driving innovative design solutions for complex electro-mechanical systems, ensuring projects meet specifications and deadlines. The successful candidate will have a degree in Mechanical Engineering and proven leadership experience in high-reliability sectors. With a focus on collaboration and continuous improvement, this position offers a dynamic work environment with hybrid and flexible arrangements, competitive benefits, and opportunities for professional growth.

Benefits

28 days annual leave

Matched pension contributions

Life assurance

Employee assistance programme

Electric vehicle salary sacrifice scheme

Gym discounts

Employee share scheme

Continuous learning opportunities

Free onsite parking

Holiday purchase scheme

Qualifications

• Proven experience in leading design of complex mechanical systems.
• Strong knowledge of material selection and fabrication techniques.

Responsibilities

• Lead a multi-disciplinary design team for high-quality mechanical design.
• Drive innovative design of complex electro-mechanical systems.

Skills

Mechanical Engineering

SolidWorks

Project Management

Material Selection

Communication Skills

Team Leadership

Technical Documentation

Education

Degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks 3D CAD

Job description

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Principal Mechanical Engineer, west sussex

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Job Category:

Other

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EU work permit required:

Yes

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Job Views:

7

Posted:

24.04.2025

Expiry Date:

08.06.2025

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Job Description:

Holt Executive is supporting a well-established and rapidly growing design and manufacturing business, seeking a Principal Mechanical Engineer to join its engineering team.

Specialising in advanced systems for the defence sector, the company delivers innovative, precision-engineered solutions to meet complex customer requirements.

This role offers the opportunity to lead a skilled engineering team and contribute to the design and delivery of cutting-edge technology.

Key Responsibilities for the Principal Mechanical Engineer:

• Lead and manage a multi-disciplinary design team to deliver high-quality mechanical design solutions, ensuring projects are completed on time, within budget, and to specification.
• Drive innovative design of complex electro-mechanical systems, mechanisms, and structures using SolidWorks and supporting analysis tools.
• Perform detailed engineering analysis including stress, fatigue, vibration, and materials performance, using both conventional methods and simulation software.
• Produce and manage detailed engineering documentation, including 3D CAD models, manufacturing drawings, test plans, reports, and technical documentation to support product development and customer requirements.
• Integrate mechanical designs with electronic, control, and drive systems, collaborating closely with wider engineering teams.
• Lead design reviews, manage design releases to production, and support manufacturing, testing, and field engineering teams.
• Support project managers with resource planning, progress reporting, and technical problem-solving.
• Assist sales and bid teams with proposals, quotations, and technical input.
• Promote continuous improvement in product development processes, working cross-functionally with other engineering and production teams.

Skills & Experience for the Principal Mechanical Engineer:

• Degree qualified in Mechanical Engineering.
• Proven experience leading the design of complex mechanical systems, preferably within defence or other high-reliability sectors (e.g., R&D, scientific equipment, bespoke machinery).
• Strong knowledge of material selection, machining, fabrication techniques, and surface treatment processes for use in harsh environments.
• Expertise in motion control, precision mechanisms, gear drives, bearings, and motor integration.
• Proficient in SolidWorks 3D CAD and engineering analysis.
• Experience managing small to medium-sized design teams, with a focus on mentoring, coaching, and talent development.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, capable of presenting complex technical arguments clearly.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively within multi-disciplinary teams and deliver results within fast-paced environments.
• Familiarity with producing technical documentation, safety reviews, risk assessments, and quality control processes.

Benefits & Work-Life Balance:

• 37.5-hour working week with early finish on Fridays
• Hybrid and flexible working arrangements
• 28 days annual leave + Christmas closure + holiday purchase scheme
• Matched pension contributions up to 5%
• Life assurance, income protection, and employee assistance programme
• Electric vehicle salary sacrifice scheme
• Wellbeing support, gym discounts, and reward platform with high street discounts
• Employee share scheme and referral bonus
• Continuous learning & development opportunities
• Free onsite parking

Security Clearance Requirement:

Due to the nature of this role, candidates must be eligible to obtain UK Security Clearance. Proof of identity, right to work, employment history, and residency in the UK for at least five years will be required.

If your qualifications and experience align with this Principal Mechanical Engineer opportunity, we encourage you to submit your CV for consideration.