Principal Design Engineer

About us

At Cheesecake Energy Limited we value Diversity and Inclusion. Different experiences bring richness to our collective approach. Our culture and character are unique as a result. We strive to always exceed our customers’ expectations and act with Integrity. We deliver upon our commitments and endeavour to create a sustainable future for ourselves and our valued customers. Working as one team we can achieve more. We are open-minded and embrace business and personal growth opportunities.

About the role

The successful candidate will be responsible for creating, developing and delivering innovative design solutions for our suite of Compressor / Expander piston engines which are the basis of the Cheesecake Energy product range. Working with cross-functional teams to conceptualise, develop, and refine designs using advanced CAD software and engineering tools. While enhancing compressor/expander functionality, manufacturability, and cost-effectiveness, the successful candidate will ensure high-quality design outputs meet all performance, safety, and regulatory standards.

Role responsibilities

Design Development and Innovation:

• Develop innovative design concepts for products, components, and systems based on customer specifications, technical requirements, and industry trends.
• Create detailed 3D models and engineering drawings using CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, CATIA, NX, AutoCAD, or Creo).
• Collaborate with the product development team to ensure designs meet all functional, performance and cost criteria.

Prototyping, Testing & Validation:

• Support the development of prototypes and coordinate with prototyping teams to validate design concepts.
• Conduct design validation and verification activities, including simulations, analysis, and physical testing.
• Analyse test results and iterate designs to resolve any issues and improve product performance and reliability.

Technical Documentation and Compliance:

• Prepare and maintain comprehensive design documentation, including technical drawings, specifications, bill of materials (BOM), and design change orders.
• Ensure all designs comply with industry standards, regulatory requirements, and company policies.
• Assist in the development and maintenance of design guidelines, best practices, and standard operating procedures.

Cross-Functional Collaboration:

• Work closely with manufacturing, quality, and marketing teams to ensure cohesive and integrated product development.
• Provide technical support and guidance to other team members, stakeholders, and external partners as needed.

Manufacturability and Cost Optimisation:

• Work with manufacturing and supply chain teams to ensure designs are optimized for manufacturability, assembly, and cost-effectiveness.
• Evaluate materials, processes, and suppliers to ensure optimal design solutions that meet budgetary and quality requirements.
• Implement Design for Manufacturability (DFM) and Design for Assembly (DFA)

Continuous Improvement and Innovation:

• Identify opportunities for continuous improvement in design, processes, tools, and methods to enhance productivity and quality.

What we\’re looking for

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics or a related field; a Master’s degree is a plus.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in piston engine design, preferably within the automotive, energy, aerospace or industrial sectors.
• Proficiency in 3D CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, CATIA, AutoCAD, Creo) and other engineering tools (e.g., FEA software, simulation tools).
• Strong understanding of mechanical design principles, materials, and manufacturing processes. Experience of Volvo Penta engine design or similar is a plus.
• Experience with prototyping, testing, and validation of design concepts.
• Knowledge of industry standards, regulations, and best practices in product design and engineering.

Our benefits

• The option to swap Bank Holiday\’s for religious celebrations
• Hybrid working and Core Hours
• Excellent working environment with onsite parking
• Opportunities for professional growth and development
• Private Medical Insurance
• Discount to onsite gym