Design Engineer (Fluid Systems) in Bristol

Element Digital Engineering is a leading provider of specialist engineering design, simulation, build, and consultancy services supporting complex and novel system development across the Aerospace, Automotive, Energy, Built Environment, and Chemical Process industries. We deliver advanced technical solutions to clients across the UK and internationally - from early concept and requirements definition through to detailed design, manufacture, and test.

We are seeking a capable and motivated Mechanical Engineer (Fluid Systems) to support the design, analysis, and development of complex mechanical and fluid systems. This role forms part of our growing in‑house capability and involves delivering technically challenging work packages across multiple sectors – primarily aerospace and defence, but also energy and emerging low‑carbon technologies. The position offers an opportunity to apply both analytical and practical engineering skills across the full development lifecycle – from requirements‑based design and 3‑D modelling through to structural analysis, prototype build, and test support.

The successful candidate will work as part of a multidisciplinary team, collaborating closely with specialists in controls, electrical, and systems development to deliver robust, high‑performance solutions. This is a hands‑on, on‑site engineering role ideal for engineers who enjoy solving real‑world challenges, developing designs that balance strength, manufacturability, and performance, and seeing their work progress from CAD to physical systems in active test environments.

• Design and Analysis – Design, analyse, and develop mechanical systems involving fluid flow, structural integrity, and thermal management to meet performance, reliability, and manufacturability objectives. Perform calculations to ensure the structural integrity of components and systems under mechanical and pressure loads. Conduct fluid system sizing, pressure‑drop, and thermal analyses using analytical methods and simplified 1D models. Execute finite element analyses (FEA) to verify mechanical performance and structural margins in accordance with design codes and standards. Produce detailed 3‑D models, technical drawings, and mechanical layouts using CAD tools (e.g., SolidWorks, Siemens NX, or Catia), ensuring clarity, manufacturability, and compliance with GD&T principles and design standards.
• Component and System Specification – Select and specify mechanical and fluid system components (e.g., pumps, valves, fittings, actuators, seals, and sensors) based on system performance, compatibility, and safety requirements. Specify materials, manufacturing processes, and tolerances appropriate to system operating conditions and environments. Ensure all designs comply with relevant codes, standards, and internal quality and safety requirements (e.g., ASME, API, ISO, PED, DSEAR).
• Integration and Collaboration – Collaborate across disciplines – including electrical, controls, and manufacturing teams – to ensure effective system‑level integration and traceability through the full engineering lifecycle. Participate in design and peer reviews, contributing to cross‑functional problem solving and optimisation activities.
• Build, Test and Validation – Support the build and commissioning of systems, including prototype assembly, instrumentation setup, and validation of mechanical performance and fluid behaviour. Analyse test data to confirm system performance and feed learning into iterative design improvements.
• Documentation and Reporting – Produce design calculations, stress reports, technical drawings, and documentation to a professional standard suitable for both internal review and client delivery. Support the creation of technical procedures, method statements, and validation reports as part of structured design assurance and verification activities.

• Bachelor’s degree (BEng or equivalent) in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related discipline.
• Minimum 2+ years’ experience in mechanical design and analysis, preferably within aerospace, energy, or high‑integrity system development.
• Sound understanding of structural analysis, fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, and heat transfer.
• Experience specifying and structurally justifying pressurised equipment in accordance with PED or BPVC requirements.
• Proficient in 3‑D CAD and able to produce high‑quality technical drawings and design documentation, with strong understanding of GD&T and manufacturing tolerances.
• Experience with FEA tools (e.g., ANSYS, Abaqus, Nastran) for component‑level and system‑level mechanical verification.
• Familiarity with fluid system components and their integration into mechanical assemblies.
• Experience working within structured engineering processes, including design reviews and documentation traceability.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary environment.