Project Engineer

Optima UK Inc Ltd; Desborough; On-site; GBP 38,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading manufacturer is seeking a Project Engineer to manage engineering projects from concept to commissioning. You will produce drawings, manage project costs, and liaise directly with clients. The ideal candidate will have proven experience with SolidWorks and AutoCAD, and a background in special purpose machinery, particularly in materials handling or recycling sectors. This is an onsite role based in Northamptonshire offering a competitive salary up to £45k.

Qualifications

• Experience in special purpose machinery, ideally conveyor systems or recycling equipment.
• Experience in sheet metal and fabrication design.
• Understanding of project management and cost control.

Responsibilities

• Manage the full lifecycle of engineering projects.
• Design and integrate systems and machinery.
• Liaise with customers and suppliers for project requirements.
• Support installation and commissioning phases of projects.

Skills

Proven experience with SolidWorks

Proven experience with AutoCAD

Problem-solving skills

Strong communication skills

Organisational skills

Ability to work independently and collaboratively

Understanding of hydraulics

Understanding of electrics

Tools

SolidWorks

AutoCAD

ERP/MRP systems

Job description

Job Title: Project Engineer

Location: Northamptonshire

Salary: up to £45k

Shift / Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00am - 5:15pm / onsite

About the Company

We’re recruiting for an experienced Project Engineer to join a leading manufacturer of bespoke recycling and materials‑handling equipment. This is a hands‑on design and engineering role, taking ownership of projects from concept through to commissioning. You’ll play a key role in delivering innovative, efficient, and high‑quality solutions for customers across the UK and beyond.

The Role

As a Project Engineer, you’ll be responsible for the full lifecycle of engineering projects from system layout and design through to technical delivery, documentation, and site support.

Key Responsibilities

• Producing 2D/3D General Arrangement drawings and detailed manufacturing models using SolidWorks and AutoCAD.
• Designing and integrating conveyors, structures, screens, and specialist third‑party machinery.
• Managing Bills of Materials (BOMs) and costs within ERP/MRP systems.
• Leading projects from initial concept through design release, manufacture, testing, and commissioning.
• Liaising directly with customers and suppliers to ensure technical requirements and expectations are met.
• Supporting installation and commissioning phases, ensuring projects are delivered safely, on time, and to specification.
• Continuously improving design standards, cost efficiency, and manufacturing methods.

About You

• Proven experience with SolidWorks and AutoCAD (design, detailing, GA).
• Strong background in special purpose machinery, ideally with exposure to conveyor systems or recycling equipment.
• Experience in sheet metal and fabrication design.
• Solid understanding of project management, cost control, and BOM management.
• Knowledge of ERP/MRP systems.
• Excellent problem‑solving, communication, and organisational skills.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively across engineering, projects, and manufacturing teams.
• Understanding of hydraulics and electrics.
• Prior experience working within the recycling, materials handling, or process engineering sectors.

How to Apply

To apply for the Project Engineer position, click Apply Now and upload your CV. A member of our recruitment team will contact you to discuss your application and next steps.