Senior / Principal Mechanical Engineer

Holt Executive; England; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading technology firm in the UK is seeking an experienced Mechanical Engineer to design innovative systems for space exploration. You will guide projects from concept to manufacturing while ensuring compliance with stringent environmental conditions. The ideal candidate will possess a degree in Mechanical Engineering, strong CAD skills, and over 5 years' industry experience. This role includes flexible working hours and excellent benefits.

Benefits

25 days annual leave plus bank holidays

Flexible start/finish times

Private healthcare support

Qualifications

• 5+ years' experience in mechanical engineering, ideally within space or aerospace.
• Strong understanding of materials and mechanical systems.
• Chartered status (IMechE) highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead mechanical engineering activities across multiple projects.
• Create and maintain documentation including design specifications.
• Participate in design reviews and resolve technical challenges.

Skills

CAD software proficiency

Project leadership

Problem-solving skills

Teamwork

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Master's degree preferred

Tools

PTC Creo

Windchill

Job description

Overview

Are you an experienced Mechanical Engineer looking to design and deliver cutting-edge technology for space exploration? This is a rare opportunity to join a dynamic team working on advanced space imaging sensors used in some of humanity's most important missions, from deep space telescopes to planetary rovers.

In this role, you will lead the design, development, and implementation of mechanical systems and components for bespoke imaging sensors, test cameras, and front-end electronics. You'll drive projects from concept through detailed manufacturing drawings, selecting suitable materials and ensuring that all designs meet demanding environmental conditions such as shock, vibration, and thermal extremes.

What Youll Do

• Lead mechanical engineering activities across multiple projects, translating complex specifications into practical designs and delivering robust, high-quality solutions on time and to budget.
• Create and maintain detailed documentation including design specifications, test plans, manufacturing drawings, and technical reports.
• Participate in design reviews and collaborate with cross-functional teams to resolve technical challenges and improve processes.
• Identify and mitigate risks, ensuring all designs meet performance, cost, and lead-time targets.
• Stay up to date with new mechanical engineering technologies and support the industrialisation of custom product solutions.

What Youll Bring

• Bachelor\'s degree in Mechanical Engineering (Master\'s preferred).
• Proficiency in CAD software and ability to interpret FEA results to refine designs.
• Strong understanding of materials, manufacturing processes, and mechanical systems, including design for shock, vibration, and thermal performance.
• Proven track record of leading projects and delivering innovative, manufacturable solutions.
• Excellent problem-solving, communication, and teamworking skills.
• Highly Desirable:
• Chartered status (IMechE).
• 5+ years' experience in mechanical engineering, ideally within the space or aerospace industries.
• Knowledge of ECSS and MIL-STD standards.
• Proficiency with PTC Creo, Windchill, and thermal/stress calculations.
• Familiarity with requirements management tools and processes (DFMEA, risk registers, compliance verification).

Why Join

• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays (option to buy up to 5 extra days).
• Flexible start/finish times within a 37-hour week.
• Electric car scheme, cycle-to-work programme, and free on-site parking.
• Private healthcare support, life assurance, and access to a flexible benefits platform.
• Excellent training opportunities, paid professional memberships, and mentoring support.

Take your mechanical engineering career to new heights by contributing to world-leading space imaging missions that shape our understanding of the universe.