Mechanical Systems Installation Design Engineer

The Mechanical Systems Installation Design Engineer is responsible for the detailed design and integration of mechanical systems within aerospace platforms. The role focuses on ensuring that installation designs comply with technical requirements, industry standards, and regulatory obligations. The engineer collaborates closely with multidisciplinary teams to deliver robust, efficient, and maintainable mechanical system installations that meet project deadlines and quality expectations.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Develop and produce detailed mechanical installation designs for aerospace systems, ensuring compliance with applicable standards and specifications.
• Analyse mechanical system requirements and translate these into effective installation layouts and assemblies.
• Coordinate with electrical, structural, and systems engineering teams to ensure seamless integration of mechanical installations within the overall aircraft architecture.
• Conduct design reviews, risk assessments, and validation activities to verify installation integrity and functionality.
• Identify and resolve design issues proactively, implementing solutions that minimise impact on project timelines and costs.
• Prepare and maintain accurate technical documentation, including drawings, specifications, and installation instructions.
• Support manufacturing and installation teams by providing clear technical guidance and resolving queries related to installation design.
• Ensure all design activities comply with relevant health and safety regulations and aerospace quality standards.
• Participate in design change management procedures, assessing the impact of modifications on mechanical installations.
• Stay up to date with advances in mechanical design methodologies, materials, and aerospace industry developments.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related discipline.
• Proven experience in mechanical systems installation design within the aerospace or aviation sector.
• Demonstrable knowledge of aerospace design standards, such as BS EN and other relevant regulations.
• Proficiency in computer-aided design (CAD) software, preferably CATIA V5 or equivalent.
• Strong understanding of mechanical engineering principles, materials, and manufacturing processes applicable to aerospace installations.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Effective communication skills, both written and verbal, suitable for technical documentation and cross‑functional collaboration.
• Ability to manage workload efficiently and work to strict deadlines in a dynamic environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Postgraduate qualification in Mechanical Engineering or Aerospace Engineering.
• Experience with systems integration on large-scale aerospace programmes.
• Knowledge of project management principles and experience in delivering design solutions within a contractual framework.
• Familiarity with certification processes and regulatory bodies such as the Civil Aviation Authority.
• Membership of a professional engineering institution such as the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE).

Experience

• At least five years’ experience in mechanical design engineering, specifically within aerospace or aviation industries.
• Hands‑on experience in the installation design of mechanical systems, including ducting, pipework, structural supports, and associated hardware.
• Track record of working on contract roles or projects with strict deadlines and defined deliverables.

Knowledge and Skills

• Comprehensive understanding of mechanical system installation processes and constraints in aerospace applications.
• Advanced proficiency in CAD modelling and technical drawing creation.
• Familiarity with materials selection, tolerance analysis, and manufacturing techniques relevant to aerospace components.
• Ability to interpret and apply engineering standards, safety regulations, and quality assurance protocols.
• Strong analytical skills to identify design risks and implement mitigation strategies.
• Effective interpersonal skills to liaise with multidisciplinary teams and external stakeholders.

Working Conditions

• The role is based in a modern office and design environment located in Gloucestershire, with occasional visits to manufacturing or assembly facilities.
• Standard full‑time working hours apply, with some flexibility required to meet project deadlines.
• Work may sometimes require extended hours or weekend work to support critical project milestones.
• The position involves working as part of a team in a fast‑paced aerospace engineering setting, adhering to strict health and safety standards.
• Contract duration will be specified upon offer, with potential for extension depending on project requirements.