At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead mechanical designs for diverse science and research projects, ensuring safety and innovation.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking team in a dynamic London office focused on science and research.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and supportive mentoring environment.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with opportunities for career growth and skill enhancement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in cutting-edge research while developing the next generation of engineers.
- Qualifications: Proven mechanical engineering experience with a focus on complex, safety-critical projects.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 70000 £ per year.
We have a brand-new opportunity for a Senior or Principal Mechanical Engineer to join our Science & Research team based in our London office. As a Senior or Principal Engineer in the Science & Research team you will lead and deliver mechanical designs for a wide range of science and research projects of varying scales and complexities. You will work within multidisciplinary project teams to produce robust, safe, efficient and innovative solutions that meet client briefs, regulatory standards and the specific needs of laboratory and research environments. A key part of the role is developing and mentoring a technically excellent, collaborative team.
Be responsible for the day‑to‑day technical delivery of the electrical design services for multi‑disciplinary projects across several building sectors. Lead the development of initial strategic concepts for projects ensuring solutions are appropriate for the brief and regulatory standards. Interact regularly with internal and external stakeholders, ensuring a communicative, collaborative and timely approach to delivery. This is a client‑facing role, so you will be attending project meetings and disseminating/translating the brief within the project team. Work with the team leader to help monitor fee expenditure, resources and work delivered. Mentor and support our ‘next‑gen’ professionals, including apprentices and graduates.
About you
Proven experience as a Mechanical Engineer (or closely related role) with a strong track record delivering complex projects – ideally including science, research or laboratory facilities where safety‑critical and highly reliable mechanical systems are required. Demonstrable experience of modern technical delivery processes and digital design tools, including BIM workflows and Revit MEP. Familiarity with CFD, IES or other simulation tools is advantageous. Hands‑on experience specifying, designing or commissioning specialist systems commonly used in science and research buildings – for example dedicated laboratory ventilation, LEV systems, chilled/hot water distribution, AHUs, heat recovery systems, plantroom design, treated water, steam, laboratory gases and cryogenics. Strong knowledge of controls and integration with BMS for sequencing, pressure control, temperature control, and fault detection; experience with commissioning and handover is expected. Understanding of laboratory‑specific requirements (e.g., cleanroom pressurisation, exhaust/containment strategies, hazardous area ventilation, access for maintenance) or a willingness to rapidly develop this specialist knowledge. Demonstrable client‑facing experience: presenting technical solutions, translating client briefs into deliverable design packages, and supporting procurement and construction phases. Strong technical documentation skills: preparation of mechanical design reports, specifications, single line/pipework diagrams, schedules and tender documentation. Excellent stakeholder and communication skills, with the ability to explain complex technical solutions clearly to clients, architects and the project team. Relevant professional qualifications or chartered status (e.g., CEng/MEI/MCIBSE) or working towards chartership.
Adjustments and accommodations
If there are adjustments or accommodations that we can put in place to help you participate and give your best at any stage of the recruitment process (whether relating to disability, neurodivergence or anything else) please let us know.
Senior/Principal Mechanical Engineer – Science and Research employer: Hoare Lea LLP
Join our dynamic Science & Research team in London, where we prioritise innovation and collaboration in delivering cutting-edge mechanical designs for complex projects. As an employer, we offer a supportive work culture that fosters professional growth through mentorship opportunities and hands-on experience with advanced technologies. Our commitment to employee well-being and inclusivity ensures that every team member can thrive in a rewarding environment while contributing to impactful research initiatives.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior/Principal Mechanical Engineer – Science and Research
✨Get Your Hands Dirty at Engineering Events
Join local engineering meetups or industry conferences related to mechanical engineering. Whether it's a workshop or a career fair, these events are goldmines for networking and getting a foot in the door. Plus, you can showcase your passion and enthusiasm directly to potential employers like Hoare Lea LLP.
✨Connect with Professors & Peers
Tap into your university’s resources—professors often have connections in the industry. Don’t be shy to ask about potential openings or recommendations. Your classmates might also know of companies hiring. Often, it’s who you know that gets you in front of the right people!
✨Highlight Your Projects and Practical Experience
When you land those interviews, make sure to talk about your hands-on projects or internships. Whether it's a design project or hands-on experience with CAD software, specific examples will make you stand out. Companies like Hoare Lea LLP love to hear about practical applications of your skills.
✨Apply Directly on Company Websites
Check out the careers page of Hoare Lea LLP and apply directly through there. It shows initiative and interest in their specific values. Plus, you'll often find openings that aren't advertised on job boards, giving you a better chance to land that full-time gig!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior/Principal Mechanical Engineer – Science and Research
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Technical Expertise:In mechanical engineering, it’s vital to highlight your technical skills and projects. Make sure to include relevant software proficiency (like CAD tools) in your CV. If you've worked on specific engineering projects, detail your key contributions — we want to see how you’ve applied your skills in a practical setting!
Focus on Problem-Solving Examples:Employers in mechanical engineering love to see how you handle challenges. Use your cover letter to share specific instances where you’ve solved a complex problem or improved a design. This will show us you're not just knowledgeable but also capable of applying that knowledge effectively.
Highlight Relevant Certifications:Include any relevant certifications or training that can set you apart from the competition. Whether it's coursework from your degree, a recognised certification, or extra training in new technologies, we love to see candidates who continuously improve their skill set. This tells us you're serious about your career in engineering!
Tailor Your CV for the Role:Don’t forget to customise your CV for Hoare Lea LLP and the Senior/Principal Mechanical Engineer – Science and Research role specifically. Pull examples from your experience that align with the job description — it shows us you've done your research and are genuinely interested in becoming part of the team. We recommend applying through our website to ensure your application gets to the right people!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hoare Lea LLP
✨Brush Up on Your CAD Skills
Since mechanical engineering often involves design processes, be ready to showcase your proficiency in CAD software like SolidWorks or AutoCAD. Bring along a digital portfolio or even some sketches that demonstrate your design capabilities — it’s a great way to show what you can bring to the table at Hoare Lea LLP.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions that test your understanding of engineering principles and problem-solving skills. You might get hypothetical scenarios where you need to design a component or troubleshoot a mechanical system. Practising these types of questions will give you the confidence to tackle whatever comes your way!
✨Show Your Team Spirit
As a full-time mechanical engineer, collaboration is key! Be ready to share examples of past team projects or any experiences where you contributed to solving a complex problem with others. Demonstrating your ability to work in a team will resonate well with the interviewers at Hoare Lea LLP.
✨Discuss Your Future Goals
Since this is a full-time position, your long-term vision is important. Be open about your career aspirations, whether it’s mastering a specific tool or leading projects. This shows that you're committed not just to learning but also to growing with Hoare Lea LLP, making you a more appealing candidate.
