At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to support the V-band HPA project from design to prototype.
- Company: ETL Systems, a leader in satellite communications with a thriving culture.
- Benefits: 33 days holiday, health cash plan, annual bonus, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Hybrid working available; join a Great Place to Work!
- Why this job: Make a global impact while working on cutting-edge technology in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in mechanical engineering, prototype development, and strong problem-solving skills.
Looking for your next career move in a company that’s shaping the future of satellite communications?
At ETL Systems, we’ve been leading the way in RF design and manufacturing for over 40 years. Our technology powers critical satellite communications infrastructure used by the top 20 satellite operators and teleports worldwide, and 75% of NATO governments rely on our equipment to help protect their citizens.
We’re not just growing, we’re thriving. With three Queen’s Awards for Enterprise in International Trade, and recent acquisitions of Atlantic Microwave, SpacePath Communications, and IRT Technologies, we’ve expanded our capabilities across the full RF chain. This includes everything from antenna to modem, as well as high-power amplifiers and RF test equipment.
What truly sets us apart is our culture.
We are proudly recognised as a Great Place to Work (2024, 2025 & 2026) and named Best Workplace in Manufacturing, Production and Transportation (2025). Our success is built on strong values that shape how we work and grow together:
- Collaboration: We work as one team, united in purpose and committed to shared success.
- Innovation: We embrace curiosity and forward-thinking to drive meaningful progress.
- Excellence: We set ambitious standards and consistently deliver high-quality outcomes.
- Integrity: We act ethically, honestly and with professionalism in everything we do.
If you’re looking to join a company where your ideas are valued, your growth is supported, and your work makes a global impact, ETL Systems is the place for you.
- 33 days' holiday per year (including UK bank holidays), rising to 38 days over your first five years’ service.
- Company‑funded Health Cash Plan (helping with everyday healthcare costs).
- Annual Bonus & Salary Review.
- Company Pension.
- Career development and training for all roles.
- ETL Employee Wellbeing Support:, free eye tests, free Employee Assistance Programme, GP anytime.
- ETL People Perks: discounts on shopping, holidays, gym membership, days out, cinema and dining.
- Buy and Sell Holiday Scheme.
- Free on‑site Employee Gym (HFD HQ) and subsidised Gym memberships via People Perks
- Subsidised on‑site employee Café (HFD HQ), with free refreshments for all employees
- Free onsite parking, car share scheme and EV charging.
- Casual Business Dress.
- Annual company events.
Role Overview
We are seeking an experienced Mechanical Engineer to join our Mechanical Engineering team on a 3-month fixed-term contract to support the delivery of the V-band HPA project as it transitions from detailed design into prototype build and evaluation.
This role will provide additional engineering capacity to complete remaining design activities, finalise project documentation, prepare manufacturing and assembly data, and support prototype build and test activities. Working closely with Mechanical Engineers, Systems Engineers, Production Engineering, Project Managers and external suppliers, the successful candidate will play a key role in maintaining programme milestones, supporting prototype integration and reducing schedule risk during a critical phase of development.
The Ideal Candidate
- Background in test as they will need to write a test schedule.
- Experience supporting prototype development, engineering builds and design iterations.
- Knowledge of engineering drawings, bill of materials management and change control processes.
- Experience creating test plans, verification documentation and technical reports.
- Familiarity with Product Data Management (PDM) systems.
- Strong understanding of manufacturing and assembly techniques.
- Practical workshop and hands‑on engineering skills.
- Excellent analytical and problem‑solving abilities.
- Strong communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively across multidisciplinary teams.
- High levels of accuracy, attention to detail and documentation control.
Key Accountabilities
- Support completion of outstanding mechanical design activities for the V-band HPA programme.
- Update and release mechanical parts, assemblies, drawings and associated design documentation.
- Participate in design reviews and support closure of design actions.
- Generate, maintain and update bills of materials (BOMs) and engineering data packs.
- Produce manufacturing, build and assembly documentation to support prototype activities.
- Provide hands‑on support during prototype builds, including issue investigation, resolution and implementation of part modifications.
- Process and implement mechanical engineering design changes in accordance with company procedures.
- Create, review and maintain verification, validation and test documentation.
- Support execution of prototype evaluation activities, including thermal, vibration and environmental testing.
- Analyse test results and produce technical reports and recommendations.
- Maintain CAD and PDM data in line with company standards and processes.
- Provide technical support to ensure programme milestones are delivered to schedule.
- Experience working within aerospace, defence, communications, RF, satellite, electronics or other high‑technology industries.
- Knowledge of prototype integration, environmental qualification and product verification activities.
- Experience supporting projects through design release into manufacture and assembly.
- Familiarity with engineering change management and configuration control processes.
- Understanding of Design for Manufacture (DfM) and Design for Assembly (DfA) principles.
- Experience working with external suppliers and manufacturing partners.
- Awareness of quality management and engineering documentation standards.
Location
Hybrid working is available for this role - Before applying, please make sure you can commute to Coldwell Radio Station, Madley, Herefordshire, HR2 9NE on an adhoc basis
Closing date: At ETL, we always prioritise efficiency in everything we do. With this in mind, we are looking to commence our interview process without delay and reserve the right to close the opening early should we receive suitable applications.
BPSS Compliant: Due to the nature of our work, all roles require candidates to be BPSS compliant.
VISA Sponsorship: Unfortunately, we are unable to offer sponsorship for this role.
Please note that we do not accept speculative CVs from external suppliers.
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Mechanical Engineer - 3 Month FTC in Hereford employer: ETL Systems Ltd
ETL Systems is an exceptional employer, recognised as a Great Place to Work and offering a vibrant work culture that fosters collaboration, innovation, and excellence. With generous benefits including 33 days of holiday, a company-funded health cash plan, and extensive career development opportunities, employees are supported in their growth while contributing to impactful satellite communications technology. Located in Hereford, the modern facility provides a supportive environment with flexible hours, on-site amenities, and a commitment to employee wellbeing, making it an ideal place for aspiring data analysts to thrive.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Mechanical Engineer - 3 Month FTC in Hereford
✨Connect with Local Engineering Groups
Mechanical engineering is all about community, so dive into local engineering meetups or chapters of professional societies like the IMechE. Networking in these spaces can lead to temporary roles since companies often look to fill positions quickly through trusted referrals.
✨Leverage University Resources
If you're still connected to your university, make sure to hit up their career services. They often have listings for temporary gigs or can connect you with alumni who are working in companies like ETL Systems Ltd — they could have insight on temp roles that aren't widely advertised!
✨Showcase Your Skills Through Projects
Temporary roles can be competitive, so having a portfolio can set you apart. Whether it’s a personal project or even work from your studies, show off your design or prototyping skills. Get these on LinkedIn or a simple website — you’ll want to make a quick impression!
✨Apply Quickly and Follow-Up
In the temporary job space, timing is everything! Apply through our website as soon as you see the role for Mechanical Engineer - 3 Month FTC at ETL Systems Ltd. After a few days, don’t hesitate to follow up with a friendly email or call to show your enthusiasm and commitment. It could really make a difference!
We think you need these skills to ace Mechanical Engineer - 3 Month FTC in Hereford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Engineering Projects:For a temporary role in mechanical engineering, it’s key to highlight any projects or internships you’ve worked on. Include details about your contributions, the technologies used, and any results achieved. This helps us see the practical application of your skills right from the get-go!
Tailor Your CV for Mechanical Engineering:Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills that mechanical engineering demands. Mention your proficiency with CAD software, your understanding of thermodynamics, and any relevant design projects. We love seeing applicants who can directly relate their experience to what we do!
Emphasise Your Adaptability:Since this is a temporary role, we want to know that you can hit the ground running! In your cover letter, share examples of how you’ve quickly adapted to new environments or challenges in previous positions. This will give us confidence in your ability to contribute effectively.
Be Ready to Discuss Your Experience:Prepare to elaborate on your experiences during the application process. We might ask for specific examples of times you’ve solved engineering problems or collaborated on projects. Having those ready will make you stand out during our review!
How to prepare for a job interview at ETL Systems Ltd
✨Brush Up on Technical Skills
Since this is in mechanical engineering, be prepared to answer technical questions related to design principles and mechanical systems. Get familiar with key tools like CAD software and any specific methodologies relevant to the job. If they ask, being able to talk through a recent project where you used these skills will definitely set you apart!
✨Have Your Portfolio Ready
Even though it’s a temporary role, showcasing a solid portfolio could be a game-changer. Gather up your best designs or projects, especially any that align with the work at ETL Systems Ltd. Be ready to discuss how you approached these tasks and the outcomes; it's an opportunity to demonstrate your practical experience even in a brief timeframe.
✨Show Enthusiasm for Constant Learning
In temporary roles, employers often look for candidates who can hit the ground running. Make it clear that you’re keen to absorb as much knowledge as you can while you’re there. Talk about any relevant courses or workshops you've taken recently that keep your skills sharp; it demonstrates your commitment to the field and your willingness to adapt quickly.
✨Understand Project Timelines and Flexibility
Temporary positions can often involve shifting priorities or tight deadlines. Be ready to discuss how you’ve managed your time in previous roles, especially in environments where things were fluid. Highlighting your adaptability will reassure ETL Systems Ltd that you can handle the unexpected without losing steam.
