Principal/Senior Design Engineer

Our client is a leading provider of mechanical engineering services in the area, supplying, designing and installing Bespoke Materials Handling Equipment and Special Purpose Machinery. Established in the area, they have built a strong reputation for delivering quality service to their clients nationwide in the FMCG and Logistics industries. Their team designs and assembles a variety of products, including conveyor systems, robots, structural steel work, Crane Systems, and more. They pride themselves on providing a high standard of craftsmanship and innovation, working with multi-billion-pound businesses across the UK.

As a business, they are experiencing growth and a consistent large volume of incoming projects, with a full order book, and have recently promoted from within. As such, they are looking to expand their design team to allow them to run additional projects simultaneously. They currently employ over 150 employees across the business, with around 10 engineers in the design team.

As the Principal Mechanical Engineer, you will lead high-level technical initiatives, working closely with the Head of Design, Research & Development to provide guidance, technical oversight, and mentorship to a growing team of engineers. You will play a critical role in shaping the future of the company’s design capabilities and product innovations, driving projects from conception through to installation and beyond.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Lead multidisciplinary teams in the development of advanced mechanical systems.
• Spearhead the design of cutting-edge electromechanical systems, ensuring alignment with industry standards and internal quality benchmarks.
• Use SolidWorks and 2D CAD to produce detailed 3D models, assembly drawings, and specifications.
• Conduct advanced engineering analysis, including FEA, structural, and fatigue analysis.
• Apply mathematical modelling, statics, dynamics, and vibration principles to inform design decisions.
• Support the Head of Design in technical strategy and deputise when required.
• Oversee component selection, including gear-motors, actuators, and integration of mechanical with electrical systems.
• Champion Design for Manufacture (DFM) and Design for Assembly (DFA) principles.
• Perform DFMEA, risk assessments, and ensure designs meet the Machinery Directive and relevant standards.
• Manage the development of CAD libraries and documentation standards.
• Lead R&D efforts including IP management, internal testing equipment design, and innovative product development.
• Drive cost optimisation and value engineering throughout the design lifecycle.

What we’re looking for in a candidate:

• BSc or MEng in Mechanical Engineering (essential), MSc in a relevant field (preferably Engineering Design or related).
• A minimum of 5 years' experience in mechanical design engineering, with a strong background in industrial automation or product development.
• Demonstrable leadership skills, with the ability to manage complex technical projects and mentor junior engineers.
• Strong proficiency in SolidWorks, 2D CAD, and analytical tools for engineering calculations and FEA.
• Practical experience with sheet metal, machining, plastic injection moulding, and manufacturing processes.
• A good grasp of programming or simulation tools such as MATLAB is advantageous.
• Strong interpersonal skills, capable of delivering consultative services to internal and external stakeholders.
• Chartered Engineer status (CEng) with IMechE or actively working towards it.

The Benefits:

• Competitive salary: £50k – £60k, dependent on experience.
• Work alongside a collaborative, high-calibre design team.
• Office-based role with flexible working hours (start between 6:30am – 8:30am).
• 25 days holiday + bank holidays.
• Company pension and development opportunities.
• Involvement in high-profile, technically challenging projects.
• Supportive leadership and a strong pipeline of innovation-focused work.

If you are a motivated and experienced Principal Mechanical Engineer looking to join a growing company, we want to hear from you!

ATA is committed to creating a diverse workforce and is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of age, disability, gender, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation.