At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and develop innovative mechanical systems for cutting-edge laser communication technology.
- Company: Join Archangel Lightworks, a dynamic start-up revolutionising connectivity for a better future.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, 25 days leave, equity options, and a supportive team culture.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth with training resources and a fun team environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on humanity's communications while solving exciting mechanical challenges.
- Qualifications: Degree in Mechanical Engineering and 4 years of design experience required.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 70000 £ per year.
Archangel Lightworks is a connectivity company building wireless technology to create the space-enabled networks of the future. We are passionate about improving humanity's communications infrastructure and solving some of Earth's most critical problems, from economic inclusion to climate change. Our start-up is a fast-paced and supportive environment, where you can make your mark as part of a growing team and work on the cutting-edge of innovation.
We are looking for a Mechanical Design Engineer to join our experienced engineering team and deliver novel laser communications technology. We are developing high-performance mechanical systems including telescopes, precision pointing mechanisms, and structurally stable platforms for laser communication, with a near-term focus on ground systems. This role focuses on solving challenging mechanical problems where stiffness, alignment, thermal behaviour, and tolerance stack-ups directly impact system performance. In this role, you will work closely with our Lead Mechanical Engineer and with the Optical, Electrical and Controls disciplines. This role would suit an engineer who enjoys solving challenging, real-world mechanical problems by taking ownership of designs through concept, iteration, build, and test.
Your responsibilities will include:
- Design of precision mechanical components, mechanisms, and assemblies where stiffness, alignment, and tolerance directly impact system performance
- Design and integration of mechanical systems involving bearings, motors, precision interfaces, and structural load paths
- Structural analysis of components and systems, including hand calculations and FEA
- Creation of detailed drawings and supporting documentation
- Supporting and participating in practical assembly, integration, and test activities
- Working with external suppliers and manufacturers
- Creating BOMs for systems and interacting with the MRP system
Requirements:
- Degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent
- 4 years of industry experience in mechanical design excluding placements
- Strong experience using CAD for detailed mechanical design and producing manufacturing-ready components; experience applying FEA and/or hand calculations to inform design decisions (SolidWorks and ANSYS preferred)
- Strong Design for Manufacture knowledge, particularly for precision metal components (e.g. CNC machining and materials selection)
- Proven ability to produce manufacturing-ready drawings and tolerances to the drawing standard ISO BS 8888 and GD&T
- Practical experience with mechanical assembly and system integration
- Able to work independently in a fast-paced environment
- Proven ability to take ownership of designs and drive them through concept, iteration, and testing
Desirable additional skills:
- Skilled in hand calculation and engineering simulation
- Experienced with opto-mechanical or high-precision mechanical design, including alignment-critical assemblies and sensitivity to thermal expansion
- Experienced designing pointing mechanisms, precision motion systems or rotating assemblies which include bearings and motors
- Exposure to designing components for 3D printing
Location: Our office is based in Osney Mead, Oxford. There may be opportunity for occasional work from home as agreed with your line manager. Business travel may be required.
Compensation & Perks:
- The opportunity to make a difference building cutting edge technology to support a world-changing vision
- Options for hybrid working and custom arrangements that matter to you
- 25 days annual leave allowance plus bank holidays
- Equity options in a growing start-up
- Investment in you to help you grow, with training resources and budget
- Supportive team culture with high levels of ownership and responsibility
- Annual team retreat, regular socials and weekly team lunch
- Variety of additional perks including learning and wellbeing app subscriptions
Mechanical Design Engineer in Oxford employer: Archangel Lightworks Ltd
Archangel Lightworks is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and supportive environment where Mechanical Design Engineers can thrive while contributing to groundbreaking wireless technology. With a strong focus on employee growth, the company provides opportunities for training and development, alongside a culture that values innovation and teamwork. Located in the vibrant area of Osney Mead, Oxford, employees enjoy flexible working arrangements, generous leave policies, and a range of unique perks that foster both personal and professional well-being.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Mechanical Design Engineer in Oxford
✨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 Archangel Lightworks Ltd.
✨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 Archangel Lightworks Ltd love to hear about practical applications of your skills.
✨Apply Directly on Company Websites
Check out the careers page of Archangel Lightworks Ltd 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 Design Engineer in Oxford
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 Archangel Lightworks Ltd and the Mechanical Design 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 Archangel Lightworks Ltd
✨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 Archangel Lightworks Ltd.
✨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 Archangel Lightworks Ltd.
✨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 Archangel Lightworks Ltd, making you a more appealing candidate.
