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- Tasks: Design and develop automation components for high-volume production systems.
- Company: Join a tech company revolutionising sustainable agriculture with innovative production technology.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, benefits, and the chance to work on mission-driven projects.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by turning designs into reality in a creative, hands-on environment.
- Qualifications: Degree in Mechanical Engineering and 3+ years in mechanical design required.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth into senior roles within a fast-paced start-up.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 70000 £ per year.
Job Title: Mechanical Engineer – Automation & Product Design Location: Reading Salary: Circa £50,000 + Benefits Employment Type: Full-Time | Permanent Are you a Mechanical Engineer passionate about automation, robotics, and designing real-world systems that make a tangible impact? I’m working with a growing tech company developing next-generation production technology that’s helping revolutionise sustainable agriculture. This is a hands-on, design-focused role where you’ll contribute to the scale-up of precision automation systems for high-throughput manufacturing. You’ll join a small, agile engineering team tackling novel mechanical design challenges — everything from intricate material handling to seamless integration with electronics and software. What You’ll Be Doing: * Design and develop automation components and mechanisms for handling high-volume small objects * Integrate mechanical systems with multidisciplinary teams across software, electronics, and controls * Rapidly prototype, test, iterate and improve hardware solutions in a live production setting * Troubleshoot and optimise existing systems to ensure performance, uptime, and ease of assembly * Help refine design processes, tools, and methodologies in a fast-paced start-up environment What We’re Looking For: * Degree-qualified in Mechanical Engineering (or related field) * 3+ years\’ experience in mechanical design within automation, robotics, or mechatronics * Skilled in SolidWorks (or similar CAD), with a strong grasp of DFM and GD&T * Proven ability to design for production and tight tolerances * Practical experience working with prototyping tools and workshop equipment * Comfortable working hands-on, thinking creatively, and solving novel design problems Desirable (Not Essential): * Experience with stepper/servo motors, precision mechanisms, or small-part automation * Familiarity with 3D printing, CNC, and manufacturing methods like injection moulding * Worked in industries with high hygiene or regulatory standards (e.g., medical, food, cosmetics) * Background in low-power automated systems like animatronics, vending machines, or lab devices * Exposure to control panels, basic electronics, or cross-functional integration work Why Apply? * Salary circa £50,000 + benefits * Work on mission-driven, sustainable technology * Join a small, passionate team building production systems from the ground up * Real impact: your designs will go from CAD to real-world deployment in weeks * Creative environment with high autonomy, responsibility, and technical variety Location: Reading (commutable from Oxford, Basingstoke, Newbury, Swindon, Maidenhead) Salary: £50,000 + benefits Career Path: Pathway to Senior Engineer roles and project leadership within a fast-growing start-up If this sounds like something you\’d like to explore, please apply with your CV or get in touch for more information
Mechanical Design Engineer employer: Platform Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Platform Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Mechanical Design Engineer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in automation and robotics. This will not only help you understand the company's mission but also allow you to discuss relevant topics during your interview, showcasing your passion and knowledge in the field.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare to demonstrate your hands-on experience with prototyping tools and workshop equipment. Consider bringing examples of past projects or designs that highlight your practical skills and problem-solving abilities, as this role is very much about real-world application.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with professionals in the mechanical engineering and automation sectors. Attend industry events or join online forums where you can connect with others who may have insights into the company or the role, giving you an edge in your application.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the specific technologies and methodologies used by the company, such as SolidWorks and DFM principles. Being able to speak knowledgeably about these tools during your interview will demonstrate your readiness to contribute effectively from day one.
We think you need these skills to ace Mechanical Design Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in mechanical design, particularly in automation and robotics. Use specific examples that demonstrate your skills in SolidWorks and your ability to work with multidisciplinary teams.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for sustainable technology and how your background aligns with the company's mission. Mention any relevant projects or experiences that illustrate your problem-solving abilities in mechanical design.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, emphasise your practical experience with prototyping tools and workshop equipment. If you have experience with stepper/servo motors or 3D printing, make sure to include that as well.
Showcase Your Impact: When discussing your previous roles, focus on the tangible impact of your designs. Mention how your contributions led to improvements in performance, uptime, or efficiency in past projects.
How to prepare for a job interview at Platform Recruitment
✨Showcase Your Design Experience
Be prepared to discuss specific projects where you've designed automation components or mechanisms. Highlight your experience with SolidWorks and any relevant prototyping tools, as this will demonstrate your hands-on skills and technical knowledge.
✨Understand the Company’s Mission
Research the tech company’s focus on sustainable agriculture and how their products impact the industry. Showing that you align with their mission can set you apart and demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions related to mechanical design principles, DFM, GD&T, and troubleshooting existing systems. Brush up on these topics and be ready to explain your thought process when solving design challenges.
✨Demonstrate Team Collaboration Skills
Since the role involves working with multidisciplinary teams, be ready to share examples of how you've successfully collaborated with software, electronics, or controls teams in past projects. This will show your ability to integrate mechanical systems effectively.
