Principal Mechanical Engineer

Rullion Engineering Cumbria; Vale of White Horse; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering recruitment agency is seeking a Principal Mechanical Engineer with a minimum of 8 years' experience in the nuclear sector. The candidate will lead mechanical engineering activities across project lifecycles, produce and review technical documentation, and liaise with suppliers to meet design intent. The role requires a degree in Mechanical Engineering and is best suited for a chartered engineer with documented leadership skills. The position offers competitive pay and opportunities to mentor junior engineers.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Mentoring opportunities

Qualifications

• 8+ years of relevant experience, ideally in nuclear or regulated industries.
• Experience with engineering design and mechanical handling systems.
• Experience working in multi-cultural teams; French is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead mechanical engineering activities across project lifecycles.
• Produce and review technical documentation including specifications.
• Conduct studies for mechanical handling systems in high-activity environments.
• Liaise with suppliers to ensure design intent is met.
• Drive technical solutions and support junior team members.

Skills

Mechanical Engineering

Technical documentation

Mentoring junior engineers

Design engineering

Continuous improvement

Education

Degree in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline

Chartered Engineer (IMechE preferred)

Job description

Job title

Principal Mechanical Engineer – 8 year minimum in the Nuclear sector

Job type

Contractor

Location

Warrington, Cumbria or Abingdon

Start date

ASAP

Salary

Competitive

Hours of work

Up to 37 hours per week

Role

You’ll lead mechanical engineering activities across project lifecycles, including design, manufacture, construction, and commissioning support.

Responsibilities

• Producing and reviewing technical documentation (drawings, P&IDs, flow diagrams, specifications).
• Conducting studies for mechanical handling systems and powder processing in high‑activity environments.
• Liaising with suppliers and stakeholders to ensure design intent is met.
• Supporting and mentoring junior team members.
• Driving technical solutions, continuous improvement, and safe working practices.

Requirements

• Degree in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline.
• 8+ years’ relevant experience, ideally in nuclear or regulated industries.
• Chartered engineer (IMechE preferred).
• Experience with engineering design, documentation, and mechanical handling systems. Multi‑cultural team experience; French desirable but not essential.

We try to respond to all applicants, but sometimes this is not possible due to high volumes of applications; if you have not heard from us within 14 days, regrettably it means you have been unsuccessful on this occasion.

Company information

This contract is being advertised by Rullion Ltd. Since 1978, Rullion has been securing exceptional candidates for a range of clients; from large well‑known brands, to SMEs and start‑ups. As a family‑owned business, Rullion's approach is credible and honest, focused on building long‑lasting relationships with both clients and candidates. Rullion is a forward‑thinking recruitment company that specialises in providing a wide range of talent consultancy services to a diverse client base; from small start‑ups to large household names.

We celebrate and support diversity and are committed to ensuring equal opportunities for both employees and applicants.