Mechanical Designer

About the Role

We are seeking a skilled Mechanical Designer to join our team. The successful candidate will be responsible for designing and developing bespoke special-purpose machinery, jigs, fixtures, and precision-engineered components to meet specific customer requirements.

This is an excellent opportunity for a practical and detail-oriented engineer who enjoys working on varied projects, from initial concept and design through to manufacture, assembly, testing, and commissioning.

Working within a small cross-functional team, you will deliver innovative, reliable, and cost-effective design solutions while ensuring projects meet technical specifications, quality standards, and delivery deadlines.

Key Responsibilities

· Produce detailed 3D CAD models and 2D manufacturing drawings using SolidWorks and AutoCAD LT.

· Design and develop bespoke special-purpose machinery, mechanical systems, jigs, fixtures, and precision components.

· Present design concepts for internal review, assess feasibility, and refine designs to optimise performance, cost, manufacturability, and assembly.

· Apply Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) principles to ensure accuracy, fit, and function.

· Create and maintain accurate Bills of Materials (BOMs), including part numbers, materials, quantities, and revision control.

· Reverse engineer customer-supplied components to produce accurate CAD models and manufacturing specifications.

· Provide technical support to machining, fabrication, and assembly teams throughout manufacturing and build stages.

· Select and specify suitable standard mechanical components from specialist suppliers.

· Participate in prototyping, assembly, testing, and commissioning of machinery and mechanical systems.

· Provide practical troubleshooting and problem-solving support on the shop floor.

· Liaise with suppliers and vendors regarding specialist components and materials.

· Produce general arrangement drawings, equipment layouts, and technical documentation for machinery technical files.

· Manage design activities to meet project deadlines and customer expectations.

Skills and Experience Required

· Proven experience in mechanical design, ideally within special-purpose machinery, automation, or precision engineering.

· Strong proficiency in SolidWorks and AutoCAD LT.

· A sound understanding of GD&T, engineering tolerances, and manufacturing drawings.

· Knowledge of manufacturing processes, including turning, milling, grinding, sheet metal fabrication, welding, and basic heat treatment.

· Familiarity with pneumatics, hydraulics, and mechanical components such as ballscrews and linear guides.

· Ability to interpret customer drawings, technical specifications, and engineering requirements.

· Understanding of design for manufacture and assembly.

· Good communication and organisational skills, with the ability to work independently and collaboratively within a small engineering team.

Desirable experience:

· Hands-on experience in mechanical assembly, machining, fabrication, or shop-floor engineering.

· Experience taking bespoke machinery projects from concept through to build and commissioning.

· Experience liaising with suppliers and resolving manufacturing challenges.

Personal Attributes

The ideal candidate will be practical, analytical, and confident in solving engineering problems. You will have excellent attention to detail, a strong commitment to quality, and a proactive approach to identifying design improvements.

Pay: £16.00-£18.00 per hour

Expected hours: 38.75 per week

Work Location: In person