At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the design and development of complex mechanical systems in a hands-on role.
- Company: Innovative engineering organisation at the forefront of advanced propulsion systems.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, bonus, excellent benefits, and hybrid working options.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with strong career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Work on cutting-edge projects that make a real-world impact in defence.
- Qualifications: Degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, or similar; 3+ years in product development.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 55000 £ per year.
We’re supporting a highly innovative, international engineering organisation at the forefront of advanced propulsion systems, delivering complex, safety-critical products into the defence sector. Due to continued growth, they’re looking to appoint a Mechanical Design Authority to join their Development team. This is a rare opportunity to work across the full engineering lifecycle on technically challenging, real-world applications.
The Opportunity
You’ll play a key role in leading the design and development of complex mechanical systems, working from initial concept through to qualification, production and in-service support. This is a hands-on, multidisciplinary role offering exposure to a wide range of engineering principles and specialist areas.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead design evolution activities to meet customer and programme requirements
- Approve production drawings and ensure manufacturability to relevant standards
- Own and deliver DFMEA activities and support design for manufacture/cost initiatives
- Specify and review structural, thermal and performance analyses
- Plan, manage and support trials including testing and validation activities
- Lead formal design reviews (PDR, CDR etc.) and ensure actions are closed out
- Produce technical documentation including specifications, reports and compliance evidence
- Act as the technical interface with key customers and stakeholders
- Support investigations, testing and product lifecycle activities
About You
- Degree qualified in Mechanical, Aerospace, Physics or similar engineering discipline
- Experience working within a product development environment (ideally 3+ years)
- Strong understanding of engineering fundamentals (materials, stress, manufacturing)
- Experience working on complex or safety-critical systems
- Confident communicator, able to present technical information clearly
- Hands-on approach with strong attention to detail
Desirable
- Experience with DFMEA, design for manufacture/cost
- Exposure to regulated environments (e.g. defence, aerospace, automotive)
- Understanding of quality management systems (e.g. ISO9001 / EN9100)
- Project management experience or familiarity with planning tools
Why Apply?
- Work on cutting-edge engineering projects with real-world impact
- Broad technical exposure across multiple disciplines
- Strong career development within a collaborative, expert-led environment
- Competitive salary and benefits package
If you’re an engineer who enjoys solving complex problems and wants to be part of something genuinely innovative, this could be the role for you. Apply now or reach out for a confidential discussion.
Mechanical Design Authority employer: CBSbutler
At CBSbutler, we pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative and innovative work culture that empowers our employees to excel in their roles. As a Senior Manufacturing Engineer in Larkhill, you will benefit from continuous professional development opportunities, competitive compensation, and a supportive environment that values your contributions to driving efficiency and quality in manufacturing processes. Join us to be part of a forward-thinking team dedicated to excellence and growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Mechanical Design Authority
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the engineering field, especially those who work in defence or propulsion systems. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings that aren't even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your technical knowledge and real-world applications. Be ready to discuss your experience with DFMEA and design for manufacture, as these are hot topics for the Mechanical Design Authority role.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your hands-on approach! Bring examples of past projects where you led design evolution or managed trials. This will demonstrate your ability to handle complex mechanical systems and make you stand out.
✨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 Design Authority
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Mechanical Design Authority role. Highlight your experience in product development and any hands-on projects you've worked on, especially those related to safety-critical systems.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this role and how your background aligns with the company's innovative projects. Don’t forget to mention your understanding of engineering fundamentals and any relevant experience.
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In your application, be sure to highlight your technical expertise, especially in areas like DFMEA and design for manufacture. Mention any specific tools or methodologies you’ve used that are relevant to the role, as this will show us you’re ready to hit the ground running.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for the best chance of getting noticed. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it reaches the right people. Plus, we love seeing applications come in through our platform!
How to prepare for a job interview at CBSbutler
✨Know Your Engineering Fundamentals
Brush up on your knowledge of materials, stress, and manufacturing processes. Be ready to discuss how these fundamentals apply to the role of Mechanical Design Authority, especially in relation to safety-critical systems.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions about DFMEA and design for manufacture/cost. Think of specific examples from your past experience where you successfully led design evolution activities or managed trials, and be prepared to explain your thought process.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Mechanical Design Authority, you'll need to present technical information clearly. Practice explaining complex concepts in simple terms, as you might have to communicate with non-technical stakeholders during the interview.
✨Familiarise Yourself with the Company’s Projects
Research the innovative propulsion systems and projects the company is involved in. Being able to discuss their work and how your skills can contribute will show your genuine interest and help you stand out.
