Robotics Mechanical Engineer in Frimley

Are you looking to work in automation and develop industry‑leading technologies in a collaborative development team? This is an opportunity for you to impact materials handling by bringing Hyster and Yale products to the forefront of the marketplace. Our teams work on great projects within our "hands‑on" global engineering development centres. This role will be based in the EMEA Robotics Technology Centre in Frimley, in the Southeast of England, where we develop robotic solutions for all Hyster‑Yale lift truck models.

The Robotics Mechanical Engineer I supports the concept, design, development, and release of mechanical hardware solutions for Hyster and Yale robotic vehicle products (e.g., autonomous forklifts and tow tractors). This role works cross‑functionally with electrical, controls, software, test, manufacturing, procurement and suppliers to package sensors and computer hardware, design robust mountings/brackets/enclosures, and support validation activities to deliver reliable, and serviceable robotic solutions.

• Engage with global design teams (software, electrical, controls, and test) to understand solution requirements and develop the Design Validation Plans & Reports (DVP&R’s), including durability, environmental, functional safety, and regulatory considerations as applicable.
• Generate innovative solutions that fulfil functional, performance, cost and quality requirements.
• Support the verification and validation testing of new automation solutions, both at component and truck levels, and review test reports to confirm that solutions are fit for purpose.
• Engage with production teams and vendors to optimise designs for manufacture.
• Manage the release of design packages to stakeholders within the business using company processes and procedures.
• Engage with aftermarket and service teams through participation in issue triage, root cause analysis, and corrective action development processes.
• Document work clearly (design rationale, changes, and issues) and communicate effectively across global, cross‑functional development and manufacturing teams.
• Hands‑on building of prototype mechanical systems and sub‑systems.

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, product design or other related engineering discipline.
• Basic CAD skills (modelling, drafting, and layouts) and familiarity with engineering drawing standards and GD&T concepts.
• Ability to communicate effectively in writing and verbally.
• Demonstrated problem‑solving skills and the ability to work effectively in a team environment.

• 0–2 years of engineering experience in product development, design, or validation (internship/co‑op experience considered).
• Exposure to robotics, autonomous vehicles, mobile/off‑highway equipment, or industrial automation (coursework, projects, internships, or personal projects).
• Familiarity with sensors/actuators used in robotic systems (e.g., cameras/LiDAR, encoders, motors, servos, safety scanners) and their mechanical considerations for mounting and protection.
• Basic understanding of electrical/electronic systems and design.
• Basic familiarity with vehicle/industrial communication networks (e.g., CANbus to SAE J1939 or CANopen standards).
• Knowledge of design review tools/processes (e.g., FMEA, risk assessments).
• Experience with Siemens NX and/or Siemens Teamcenter (or comparable CAD/PDM tools).
• Experience working with suppliers and/or manufacturing plants (DFM/DFA, tolerance stack‑ups, and cost awareness).

• Combination of office, lab, and shop/test environment (working with prototype robotic vehicles).
• Occasional domestic and international travel may be required to suppliers, manufacturing sites, and test locations.

Hyster‑Yale Materials Handling is an equal opportunities employer.