Mechanical Design Engineer

Archangel Lightworks is a connectivity company building wireless technology to create the space-enabled networks of the future. We’re 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