At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and innovate mechanical systems for cutting-edge aerospace projects.
- Company: Join ALTEN, a global leader in engineering and technology consultancy.
- Benefits: Enjoy a personalised career path, private medical insurance, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with diverse projects and excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the future of technology and sustainability.
- Qualifications: Bachelor’s or Master’s in Mechanical Engineering or related field required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
ALTEN is a global engineering and technology consultancy operating across over 35 countries worldwide. We partner with industry leaders across sectors including Aeronautics, Aerospace, Defence, Naval, Automotive, Energy, Rail, IT and many more to deliver innovative engineering solutions that drive technological advancement and support sustainable transformation. Our teams of passionate and agile engineers work on cutting‑edge projects that shape the future of technology and sustainability. At ALTEN, we empower talented engineers to innovate, solve complex challenges, and deliver impactful solutions that build tomorrow’s world—today.
We’re looking for an experienced Mechanical Engineer to join a multidisciplinary engineering team supporting advanced R&D and product development programmes, including aerospace platforms and next‑generation propulsion systems. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys owning mechanical design across the full lifecycle, working on complex systems, and contributing to technically challenging, high‑impact engineering programmes. You’ll be involved from requirements capture and concept development through detailed design, integration, validation, and delivery, with a strong emphasis on engineering judgement, quality, and collaboration across disciplines.
Location & Contract
- Location: Bedford
- On Site: Hybrid
- Clearance: Eligible for Security Clearance
- Experience Level: Mid – Senior
Key Responsibilities
- Day‑to‑day CAD design and management of multidisciplinary design requirements
- Advanced use of SolidWorks for solid modelling, surfacing, assemblies, detailing, and BoM creation
- Perform first‑pass analysis (basic FEA and CFD) using CAD‑integrated tools
- Technical ownership of allocated project work packages (WPs), including task coordination
- Define and manage design, integration, and test activities across R&D and product programmes
- Drive product design innovation through research, prototyping, and CAD / CAE / CAM tools
- Select appropriate manufacturing methods for rapid prototyping, including wet‑layup composite parts
- Define materials and processes for metallic containers and structural components
- Produce technical documentation, including:
- User Requirements
- CONOPS
- Technical & Design Specifications
- DFMEAs and risk assessments
- Commissioning and validation plans
- Support payload and system integration, understanding performance impacts and optimisation
- Contribute to all‑electric propulsion system integration, including eVTOL and novel airframe concepts
- Act as technical point of contact for suppliers and external partners
- Support project delivery to ensure on‑time, on‑budget outcomes
- Assist Programme Management with estimation, planning, dependencies, and progress tracking
- Ensure quality, compliance, and customer satisfaction across all deliverables
Required Skills
- Strong experience in mechanical design and lifecycle engineering
- Advanced capability using SolidWorks (modelling, surfacing, assemblies, drawings)
- Understanding of first‑pass structural and thermal analysis
- Ability to work across requirements, design, integration, and test phases
- Strong documentation, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related discipline
- Equivalent industry or military engineering experience also considered
Desirable Skills
- Experience within aerospace, advanced air mobility (AAM), or high‑performance electro‑mechanical systems
- Exposure to R&D, NPI, or prototype‑led programmes
- Knowledge of composite materials and manufacturing techniques
- Payload or system‑level integration experience
- Understanding of propulsion or all‑electric systems
- Familiarity with DFMEA, validation planning, and risk‑based engineering approaches
- Experience working in regulated or safety‑critical environments
- Supplier technical management experience
Benefits
- A personalised career path and a rewarding management style
- A huge diversity of engineering projects and industries
- Private Medical Insurance
- Cycle & Tech Scheme
- Employee assistance programme
- Life insurance & Pension Scheme
- Social atmosphere, regular gatherings & team buildings
- Flexible way of working (role dependent)
EEO Statement
We are proud to support the Armed Forces Covenant & actively encourage applications from members of the Armed Forces community, including veterans, reservists, service leavers, and military spouses/partners. We recognise the value of military skills and experience and are committed to ensuring that no applicant is unfairly disadvantaged during our recruitment and selection processes. ALTEN is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace and values the strength that comes from a global mix of backgrounds and perspectives. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates, regardless of background or protected characteristics under the Equality Act 2010. If you require any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know. This role may require you to have or be willing to go through Security Clearance. As part of the onboarding process candidates will be asked to complete a Baseline Personnel Security Standard; details of the evidence required to apply may be found on the government website Gov.UK. If you are unable to meet this and any associated criteria, then your employment may be delayed, or rejected. Details of this will be discussed with you at interview.
Mechanical Engineer in Bedford employer: ALTEN Group
ALTEN is an exceptional employer that offers a dynamic work environment in Bedford, where engineers can thrive on innovative projects across various sectors, including aerospace and automotive. With a strong emphasis on employee growth, ALTEN provides personalised career paths, flexible working arrangements, and a supportive culture that values collaboration and diversity. Join us to be part of a team that not only drives technological advancement but also prioritises your professional development and well-being.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Mechanical Engineer in Bedford
✨Get Your Hands Dirty at Engineering Events
Join local engineering meetups or industry conferences related to mechanical engineering. Whether it's a workshop or a career fair, these events are goldmines for networking and getting a foot in the door. Plus, you can showcase your passion and enthusiasm directly to potential employers like ALTEN Group.
✨Connect with Professors & Peers
Tap into your university’s resources—professors often have connections in the industry. Don’t be shy to ask about potential openings or recommendations. Your classmates might also know of companies hiring. Often, it’s who you know that gets you in front of the right people!
✨Highlight Your Projects and Practical Experience
When you land those interviews, make sure to talk about your hands-on projects or internships. Whether it's a design project or hands-on experience with CAD software, specific examples will make you stand out. Companies like ALTEN Group love to hear about practical applications of your skills.
✨Apply Directly on Company Websites
Check out the careers page of ALTEN Group and apply directly through there. It shows initiative and interest in their specific values. Plus, you'll often find openings that aren't advertised on job boards, giving you a better chance to land that full-time gig!
We think you need these skills to ace Mechanical Engineer in Bedford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Technical Expertise:In mechanical engineering, it’s vital to highlight your technical skills and projects. Make sure to include relevant software proficiency (like CAD tools) in your CV. If you've worked on specific engineering projects, detail your key contributions — we want to see how you’ve applied your skills in a practical setting!
Focus on Problem-Solving Examples:Employers in mechanical engineering love to see how you handle challenges. Use your cover letter to share specific instances where you’ve solved a complex problem or improved a design. This will show us you're not just knowledgeable but also capable of applying that knowledge effectively.
Highlight Relevant Certifications:Include any relevant certifications or training that can set you apart from the competition. Whether it's coursework from your degree, a recognised certification, or extra training in new technologies, we love to see candidates who continuously improve their skill set. This tells us you're serious about your career in engineering!
Tailor Your CV for the Role:Don’t forget to customise your CV for ALTEN Group and the Mechanical Engineer role specifically. Pull examples from your experience that align with the job description — it shows us you've done your research and are genuinely interested in becoming part of the team. We recommend applying through our website to ensure your application gets to the right people!
How to prepare for a job interview at ALTEN Group
✨Brush Up on Your CAD Skills
Since mechanical engineering often involves design processes, be ready to showcase your proficiency in CAD software like SolidWorks or AutoCAD. Bring along a digital portfolio or even some sketches that demonstrate your design capabilities — it’s a great way to show what you can bring to the table at ALTEN Group.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions that test your understanding of engineering principles and problem-solving skills. You might get hypothetical scenarios where you need to design a component or troubleshoot a mechanical system. Practising these types of questions will give you the confidence to tackle whatever comes your way!
✨Show Your Team Spirit
As a full-time mechanical engineer, collaboration is key! Be ready to share examples of past team projects or any experiences where you contributed to solving a complex problem with others. Demonstrating your ability to work in a team will resonate well with the interviewers at ALTEN Group.
✨Discuss Your Future Goals
Since this is a full-time position, your long-term vision is important. Be open about your career aspirations, whether it’s mastering a specific tool or leading projects. This shows that you're committed not just to learning but also to growing with ALTEN Group, making you a more appealing candidate.
