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- Tasks: Lead the design and development of advanced robotic cleaning systems for the oil & gas sector.
- Company: Industry leader in robotic tank cleaning with a focus on safety and innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, relocation support, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a pioneering field while working with cutting-edge technology.
- Qualifications: Degree in Mechanical Engineering and 7+ years of relevant experience required.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team and enjoy a hands-on role with excellent career advancement.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Our client is an industry leader in robotic tank cleaning, providing pioneering solutions to the oil & gas sector. Their innovative technology eliminates the need for human entry into hazardous confined spaces, delivering world-class safety, efficiency and reliability. Due to continued growth, our client is now looking to appoint an experienced Senior Design Engineer to take a lead role in the design, development and integration of their advanced robotic cleaning systems.
Role Overview
This is a senior, hands-on design role, ideal for an engineer who enjoys owning projects end-to-end, driving improvements, and supporting the wider engineering function. You will lead the design and enhancement of complex machinery and robotic systems that incorporate hydraulics, intrinsically safe electrical systems (ATEX compliant) and pumping/vacuum solutions, ensuring systems remain robust, safe and high-performing in challenging oil & gas environments.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead design and development improvements to ATEX Zone 0 robotic tank cleaning systems
- Integrate mechanical, hydraulic, electrical and pumping components into complete engineered solutions
- Drive innovation and optimisation to improve reliability and performance
- Ensure ongoing compliance with ATEX and oil & gas safety standards
- Provide technical leadership, guidance and mentorship to junior engineers
- Participate in and lead design reviews, design validation and continuous improvement initiatives
- Support engineering project delivery through planning, coordination and technical oversight
The Ideal Candidate
The successful candidate will be a highly experienced engineer who can combine technical leadership with practical design expertise. While this role is based in Ireland, we warmly welcome applications currently residing in the UK wanting to relocate. You will ideally have:
- Experience designing machines from start to finish (e.g. dumpers, forklifts, heavy plant or industrial machinery)
- Strong capability across mechanical, hydraulic and electrical systems
- Ideally 20+ years’ experience in design / mechanical engineering environments
- A hands-on mindset — comfortable supporting practical work when required
- Happy to spend approximately 80% of your time in design, while also being able to manage a team and lead projects
Essential Criteria
- Degree qualified in Mechanical Engineering (or similar discipline)
- Minimum 7+ years’ experience in a similar role
- Strong working knowledge of hydraulics / industrial machinery / mechanical systems
- Confident leading projects and driving engineering activities
- Strong CAD skills (preferably SolidWorks)
Desirable Experience
- Knowledge of ATEX / IECEx or explosion-proof design principles
- Experience with pumping and vacuum systems
- Background in oil, chemical plant maintenance, tank cleaning or decommissioning systems
Design Engineer employer: DES JOHNSTON RECRUITMENT LIMITED
Contact Detail:
DES JOHNSTON RECRUITMENT LIMITED Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Design Engineer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the oil & gas sector, especially those who know about robotic systems. A friendly chat can lead to insider info on job openings that aren't even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your design projects, especially those involving hydraulics and electrical systems. This will give potential employers a clear view of what you can bring to the table.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on ATEX compliance and safety standards. Be ready to discuss how you've tackled challenges in past projects, as this will demonstrate your hands-on experience and problem-solving skills.
✨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 are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Design Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Design Engineer role. Highlight your experience with mechanical, hydraulic, and electrical systems, and don’t forget to mention any projects where you’ve led design improvements or innovations.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about robotic systems and how your 20+ years of experience make you the perfect fit for this role. Be sure to connect your skills to the key responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Showcase Your Hands-On Experience: Since this role requires a hands-on mindset, be sure to include examples of when you’ve supported practical work. Whether it’s leading a team or getting involved in the nitty-gritty of design, let us know how you’ve made an impact!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at DES JOHNSTON RECRUITMENT LIMITED
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of hydraulic, mechanical, and electrical systems. Be ready to discuss specific projects you've worked on, especially those involving ATEX compliance or robotic systems. This will show that you’re not just familiar with the theory but have practical experience too.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Since this role involves mentoring junior engineers and leading projects, be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past. Highlight any instances where you drove innovation or improved processes, as this will demonstrate your capability to take charge.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect some technical questions related to design principles, particularly around ATEX Zone 0 systems and industrial machinery. Practise explaining complex concepts in a clear and concise manner, as this will showcase your expertise and communication skills.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions that show your interest in the company and the role. Inquire about their current projects, challenges they face in the oil & gas sector, or how they foster innovation within their engineering teams. This will help you stand out as a candidate who is genuinely interested in contributing to their success.
