At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead mechanical engineering for a major project, ensuring design efficiency and risk management.
- Company: Join a dynamic Joint Venture Project Management Team in Reading.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working pattern, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Work onsite 4 days a week with one day of remote flexibility.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact on large-scale projects while collaborating with top industry professionals.
- Qualifications: 15+ years in mechanical engineering with strong design and technical expertise.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 € per year.
Location: Reading, UK (Onsite)
Contract: 12 Months (Inside IR35)
Hours: 40 hours per week (Core hours: 09:00 - 15:30)
Working Pattern: 4 days onsite, 1 day WFH
About the Role
We are seeking an experienced Mechanical Engineering Lead to join a Joint Venture (JV) Project Management Team during the pre-FEED stage of a major project, based in Reading.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide engineering leadership aligned with project objectives and risk strategies
- Work closely with PMT and contractors to ensure risks are clearly understood and managed
- Drive value improvement and capital efficiency initiatives within design development
- Recommend and evaluate design alternatives to optimise cost and schedule
- Own and develop engineering standards, specifications, and philosophies
- Ensure technical definitions meet pre-FEED / FEED maturity expectations
- Support preparation of FEED/EPC scopes and participate in technical bid evaluations
- Lead technical reviews and ensure closure of actions from JV and contractor engagements
- Develop and execute engineering surveillance plans
- Collaborate across engineering, operations, and maintenance teams
- Identify and assess new technologies and equipment
Experience & Background:
- Minimum 15+ years' experience in mechanical engineering, primarily in technical roles
- Strong background across static equipment design and engineering
- Proven experience in both operator/end-user and contractor/consultancy environments
- Experience in downstream refining or chemical processing projects
- Familiarity with large-scale modular projects and execution strategies
- Experience with major operators (e.g., ExxonMobil, Saudi Aramco) or Middle East projects is advantageous.
Technical Expertise:
- Extensive knowledge of pressure vessels, reactors, towers & internals
- Heat exchangers (including complex types)
- High-pressure/high-alloy equipment
- Large bore piping systems
- Storage tanks (including cryogenic)
- Static equipment relevant to hydroprocessing, gas treatment, and cracking units
- Strong understanding of fitness-for-service, stress analysis, and mechanical integrity
- Ability to develop and optimise standards, design basis, and engineering philosophies
- Skilled in identifying risk-based technical solutions and handling ambiguity
Interested? Apply now or reach out directly for a confidential discussion.
Mechanical Engineering Lead employer: Belcan
Belcan is an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture, particularly for the Mechanical Engineering Lead role in Reading. With a strong emphasis on employee growth and development, we offer unique opportunities to engage in high-impact projects while enjoying a flexible working pattern that includes one day of remote work each week. Our commitment to engineering excellence and capital efficiency ensures that you will be part of a team that values your expertise and contributions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Mechanical Engineering Lead
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the mechanical engineering field, especially those who've worked on similar projects. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your technical knowledge and project management skills. Be ready to discuss your experience with static equipment design and how you've tackled challenges in past roles.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! When discussing your experience, highlight instances where you’ve led teams or projects, especially in high-pressure environments. This will demonstrate your capability as a Mechanical Engineering Lead.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Mechanical Engineering Lead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Mechanical Engineering Lead role. Highlight your 15+ years of experience and any specific projects that align with the job description. We want to see how your background fits perfectly with what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this position. Mention your experience in static equipment design and any relevant projects you've worked on. We love a good story that showcases your skills!
Showcase Your Technical Expertise:Don’t forget to highlight your extensive knowledge of pressure vessels, heat exchangers, and large bore piping systems. We’re looking for someone who can hit the ground running, so make sure we see your technical prowess right from the start!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, we love seeing applications come in through our own channels!
How to prepare for a job interview at Belcan
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your technical knowledge, especially around pressure vessels, heat exchangers, and large bore piping systems. Be ready to discuss your past projects in detail, as this will show your depth of experience and understanding.
✨Show Your Leadership Skills
As a Mechanical Engineering Lead, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to lead teams and manage risks effectively. Prepare examples of how you've driven value improvement initiatives or managed design alternatives in previous roles.
✨Understand the Project Context
Familiarise yourself with the specifics of the Joint Venture project and its objectives. Knowing the project's goals and challenges will help you align your answers with what the company is looking for, showing that you're not just a fit for the role but also for the project.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the company's engineering standards, risk management strategies, and collaboration across teams. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you gauge if the company culture aligns with your values.
