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- Tasks: Join our team to design high-precision laser fabrication machines and support innovative projects.
- Company: Opsydia, a cutting-edge laser technology company spun out from the University of Oxford.
- Benefits: Flexible working options, hybrid arrangements, and a collaborative work environment.
- Other info: Opportunity for contract work and a dynamic workplace at Begbroke Science Park.
- Why this job: Make an impact in advanced laser technology and work on exciting applications in various industries.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in mechanical design with a degree in mechanical engineering.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 ÂŁ per year.
We are looking for a Senior Mechanical Engineer to help us scale our next-generation laser processing platform. Spun out from the University of Oxford in 2017, Opsydia is a specialist laser technology company harnessing decades of academic excellence and experience in adaptive optics that enable the writing of features in transparent materials. Our writing technology has gone on to provide functionalities across many scientific and industrial areas. Our technology provides a platform for functional devices in transparent materials such as optical glass and diamond, with several disruptive applications ranging from datacoms, quantum to sensing devices.
THE ROLE
You will be working with our Mechanical Engineering team, supporting the development of high‑precision laser fabrication machines from early R&D through to production. You’ll help create robust, manufacturable assemblies on an optics platform and support smooth NPI, documentation and supplier handover.
- Design opto‑mechanical assemblies in SolidWorks (precision optics, mounts, motion stages, chassis and laser‑safe/electrical enclosures).
- Support Systems Engineering by building proof‑of‑concept test beds and prototype assemblies using modular aluminium extrusion systems and off the shelf optical components; contribute to integration and R&D test‑rig design.
- Apply design‑for‑manufacture principles, using additive and subtractive methods to deliver robust, cost‑effective solutions.
- Familiar with sheet metal design and rapid machine fabrication techniques.
- Produce precise engineering documentation, creating engineering drawings to meet GD&T standards and liaise with suppliers, manufacturing partners and internal cross-functional teams.
- Maintain accurate CAD, assemblies and configurations in PDM; organise and participate in design reviews.
ESSENTIALS
You will have more than 5 years’ experience in mechanical design alongside a degree, or equivalent training, in mechanical engineering and enjoy working as part of a small collaborative team.
ABOUT YOU
- Clear, concise communicator; able to present technical concepts to different audiences.
- Collaborative team player who can also work independently, with effective time management and ability to deliver projects to demanding timelines.
- Proactive problem solver with a creative, practical hands-on approach to delivery.
- Detail‑focused and well organised; keeps records and enjoys understanding complex systems.
We are open to proposals from freelance/contractors. This position is initially offered for a fixed-term contract of three months. This is a full-time role (37.5 hours a week), though part-time or flexible working options will be considered for the right candidate. We offer hybrid/flexible working arrangements but please note that the role requires in-office presence as we work with physical hardware.
As part of the recruitment process a selected candidate will be required to undergo security screening to BPSS (Baseline Personnel Security Standard).
EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES
We are an equal opportunities employer and commit to encouraging equality, diversity and inclusion in the workplace whilst creating an environment which promotes dignity and respect for all. We post our job descriptions across a wide range of recruitment platforms to enable us to garner the most diverse range of candidates we possibly can.
ADJUSTMENTS AND PROVISIONS
We are dedicated to putting in place any reasonable adjustments that may be required to meet the needs of those who wish to apply for a position at Opsydia. Please share if you have a declared disability, for example but not limited to: a social communication impairment such as autism spectrum disorder, a specific learning difficulty such as dyslexia, dyspraxia or ADHD; a mental health condition, a sensory impairment affecting sight or hearing or a physical or mobility impairment.
ALTERNATIVE FORMATS
We can provide our job descriptions in an alternative format of video or audio description.
ABOUT OPSYDIA
Opsydia provides commercial systems based on adaptive optics which can directly generate photonic structures in a variety of transparent materials. Learn more at opsydia.com. The company is based in the Centre for Innovation & Enterprise at Begbroke Science Park north of Oxford. Begbroke offers comprehensive facilities on-site including a restaurant, coffee shop, free parking and a minibus service between the park and Oxford.
Your data will be held in line with our recruitment privacy policy available at https://opsydia.com/recruitment-privacy-policy.
Mechanical Design Engineer - Fixed-Term Contract in Oxford employer: Opsydia Limited
Contact Detail:
Opsydia Limited Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Mechanical Design Engineer - Fixed-Term Contract in Oxford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend relevant events, and don’t be shy about asking for introductions. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that dream job.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. Familiarise yourself with their technology and think about how your skills can contribute to their goals. We want to see that you’re genuinely interested in Opsydia and ready to dive into our innovative work!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your technical explanations! You’ll need to present complex concepts clearly, so grab a friend or mentor and run through your ideas. We love clear communicators who can break down intricate designs into digestible bits for different audiences.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we’re always on the lookout for candidates who are proactive and take the initiative to connect with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Mechanical Design Engineer - Fixed-Term Contract in Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Mechanical Design Engineer role. Highlight your experience with SolidWorks and any relevant projects that showcase your skills in opto-mechanical assemblies and design-for-manufacture principles.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about laser technology and how your background aligns with our mission at Opsydia. Keep it concise but impactful!
Showcase Your Team Spirit: We love collaborative team players! In your application, mention experiences where you've worked effectively in a team setting, especially in high-pressure environments. It’s all about showing us you can fit right in!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it helps us keep everything organised!
How to prepare for a job interview at Opsydia Limited
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your mechanical design principles, especially around opto-mechanical assemblies and SolidWorks. Be ready to discuss your past projects and how they relate to the role at Opsydia.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare examples of how you've tackled complex engineering challenges in the past. Opsydia values proactive problem solvers, so think about specific instances where your creative, hands-on approach made a difference.
✨Communicate Clearly
Practice explaining technical concepts in simple terms. You’ll need to present ideas to different audiences, so being a clear and concise communicator will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Be a Team Player
Opsydia is looking for collaborative individuals. Think of examples where you’ve worked effectively in a team, and be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to their small, dynamic group.