Principal Mechanical Engineer in Sheffield

Due to continued business growth, we are looking to recruit a number of experienced Design Engineers to join a leading business in the Sheffield area. This is a full-time permanent opportunity with an industry leader in their field. We are looking for candidates with a minimum of 7 – 10 years experience in industry looking for their next move – whether it be Senior Mechanical, Lead Mechanical or Principal Mechanical Engineer – there is a position for you based on your experience.

The role will involve design and development of components used in a range of sectors including Nuclear, Defence, Rail, Oil and Gas and Subsea applications. You will be responsible for delivering high-quality engineering design, analysis, and documentation for projects with design-based scopes of work. The role involves contributing to all stages of the engineering lifecycle—from concept development through detailed design and implementation—while ensuring compliance with applicable standards and best practice.

Candidates will ideally be degree level in a relevant Mechanical engineering discipline; however, those with demonstrable experience who are HNC/HND qualified will also be considered. Engineers with CEng/Chartered status would also be highly advantageous. Candidates will also ideally have a demonstrable background in design and development of larger fabricated/machined components products. Experience with Autodesk Inventor is ideal.

Responsibilities:

• Participate actively in project planning, scope definition, and engineering execution strategy.
• Organise and prioritise own workload, and meet planned deadlines.
• Contribute to and, where appropriate, lead engineering design review meetings, ensuring the technical integrity of all outputs.
• Coordinate with multidisciplinary teams to integrate mechanical designs within broader project objectives.

Deliverables:

• Detailed design drawings and general arrangement drawings (2D and 3D).
• Engineering calculations supporting design decisions and compliance verification.
• Computer-based analyses such as Finite Element (FE) modelling, structural integrity assessments, and thermal or fluid simulations.
• Technical documentation, including risk assessments, bills of materials (BoMs), and material specifications.
• Engineering reports summarising design intent, analytical outcomes, and design verifications.

Review and verify the work of other engineers or designers using first principles, design standards, and appropriate codes of practice (Type A and Type B standards). Ensure designs meet safety, functionality, and cost-effectiveness requirements. Provide support and guidance to the Mechanical Engineers, Mechanical Designers, and Apprentices.

Health & Safety:

It is your responsibility to work in a safe manner to promote personal safety and the safety of others to prevent accidents occurring and report all near misses. Move materials safely and carefully using the correct mechanical lifting method. Use the appropriate PPE and ensure it is in good condition, replace when required. Follow the company’s Health & Safety Policy at all times.

Knowledge & Skills:

• Degree in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related discipline. Candidates holding an HNC/HND in a relevant field may be considered for Project Engineer roles, subject to the Engineering Director’s review to ensure sufficient theoretical and analytical competence.
• Minimum of 7 years of post-graduate industrial experience (for Senior Engineers) in a mechanical engineering or design-based environment.
• Proven ability to develop and deliver engineering solutions from initial requirements to fully detailed design.
• Demonstrable experience in the following areas:
• Application of engineering codes of practice and Type A/B standards.
• Use of engineering models and drawings to communicate design intent (software training available in the company’s preferred design suite).
• Verification and validation of design work, including peer reviews and calculations.
• Understanding of manufacturing processes such as planning, raw material preparation, plating, welding, machining, finishing, and assembly.
• Preparation of risk assessments and technical specifications.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with a sound grasp of engineering fundamentals.
• Competent in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook).
• Familiarity with CAD and FEA tools.