Principal Mechanical Engineer

SoCode Limited; Landbeach; On-site; GBP 125,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A global high-tech engineering business in the UK seeks a Principal Mechanical Engineer to join their R&D team. This senior, hands-on role involves leading the mechanical development of complex electromechanical products, defining requirements, and producing detailed CAD and designs. Candidates should have a Mechanical Engineering degree and extensive R&D experience, including advanced SolidWorks skills. This position promises a pivotal role in product development from concept to production.

Qualifications

• Mechanical Engineering degree or closely related discipline.
• Extensive experience delivering products in high-technology R&D and manufacturing settings.
• Advanced 3D CAD capability in SolidWorks with working knowledge of simulation and analysis.

Responsibilities

• Lead mechanical development on new product programmes.
• Define mechanical requirements around performance, reliability, cost, and serviceability.
• Produce detailed CAD, drawings, tolerances, and full bills of materials.

Skills

Mechanical Engineering degree

Extensive experience in R&D and manufacturing

3D CAD capability in SolidWorks

Understanding of manufacturing methods

Designing electromechanical systems

Experience with motion and drive systems

Materials selection and mechanical reliability

Designing jigs and fixtures

Risk assessment and design reviews

Hands-on with detailed design

Education

Mechanical Engineering degree

Tools

SolidWorks

Job description

Socode are working with a global high-tech engineering business developing complex precision systems used in advanced industrial applications. As their next-generation products move through critical development phases, they're now looking to add aPrincipal Mechanical Engineerto their R&D team.

This is a senior, hands-on role where you'll take ownership of major mechanical systems on complex electromechanical products — not just small sub-assemblies.

What will you be doing?

• Leading mechanical development on new product programmes from technical specification through to production
• Defining mechanical requirements around performance, reliability, cost, and serviceability
• Producing detailed CAD, drawings, tolerances, and full bills of materials
• Leading the build, integration, and testing of complex mechanical and electromechanical sub-systems
• Selecting and validating cost-effective manufacturing methods and mitigating technical risks
• Working closely with suppliers to source and manufacture components
• Supporting product integration, system testing, and early-life issue resolution
• Ensuring designs meet relevant standards and internal quality requirements
• Contributing to technical documentation, training material, and customer support
• Collaborating daily with R&D, Manufacturing, Product Management, and wider engineering teams

We're looking for:

• A Mechanical Engineering degree (or closely related discipline)
• Extensive experience delivering products in high-technology R&D and manufacturing settings
• Advanced 3D CAD capability in SolidWorks with working knowledge of simulation and analysis
• A track record of owning products through the full development cycle, from early concept to production support
• Strong practical understanding of a wide range of manufacturing methods, including CNC machining, sheet metal, moulded parts, castings, and additive methods
• Solid background in designing and packaging electromechanical systems
• Proven experience with motion and drive systems such as mechanisms, motors, linear rails, and bearings
• Good working knowledge of materials selection, tolerancing, and mechanical reliability
• Hands‑on experience designing jigs, fixtures, and supporting manufacturing processes
• A structured, analytical engineer who is comfortable with risk assessment and design reviews
• Someone who can lead technically while remaining hands‑on with detailed design

Nice to have:

• Previous exposure to fluid-based precision systems
• Understanding of pneumatics, fluid handling, or safe machinery design