Mechanical Engineer in Southampton

About SailGP Technologies

SailGP Technologies is the high performance design, engineering and manufacturing arm of SailGP, the global purpose‑led sail grand prix championship. The Rolex SailGP Championship is the most exciting racing on water, where anything can happen in short, adrenaline‑fueled battles between national teams at iconic stadium destinations worldwide. Top athletes fly in identical high‑tech F50 catamarans faster than the wind, at speeds in excess of 100km/h (60mph). Founded in 2018, SailGP is one of the world’s fastest‑growing sports and entertainment properties, now in its sixth season. SailGP’s constantly evolving design, composites engineering, software and data expertise is rooted in decades of experience at the forefront of cutting‑edge sail racing. Previously established and located in New Zealand since 2001, SailGP Technologies has relocated to Southampton, UK, with the new state of the art facility which opened in Spring 2024.

Job Summary

As a Mechanical Engineer at SailGP Technologies, you will design and deliver mechanical components and assemblies across both the existing F50 race platform and new development programmes. You will take ownership of parts from initial concept through to manufacture and in‑service support, working closely with structural engineers and the production team to ensure designs are practical, robust, and race‑ready. This is a hands‑on role within a small, high‑performing design team, where progress is driven through close collaboration and rapid iteration rather than formal process.

Programme Context & Projects You’ll Work On

You will be working within a programme prioritised through our Design & Build Authority (DABA), balancing planned development work with fast‑turnaround engineering tasks. Immediate priorities include supporting the F50 safety upgrade programme through system‑level improvements and integration work. Alongside this, you will contribute to future developments including a youth/feeder league boat, autonomous race mark systems, and next‑generation appendages. Given the size of the team and scope of the programme, you will be exposed to a wide range of problems and systems rather than working within a narrow component area.

Key Responsibilities

• Own the design and delivery of mechanical components and assemblies from concept through to manufacture
• Produce high‑quality 3D CAD models and fully defined 2D engineering drawings
• Apply appropriate GD&T and tolerancing strategies to ensure manufacturability and reliable assembly
• Design components that integrate effectively with composite structures, working closely with structural engineers to align geometry with load paths and laminate definitions
• Work in a tight, informal loop with structural engineers and designers — reviewing ideas at the desk, iterating quickly, and refining designs without heavy process overhead
• Carry out quick hand calculations or first‑pass FEA where needed to support design decisions
• Engage directly with the production floor to ensure designs are buildable and efficient, responding to DFM feedback in real time
• Support prototype builds, testing activities, and resolution of in‑service issues on the F50 fleet
• Contribute to failure investigations and continuous improvement of existing components
• Take ownership of smaller projects or work packages, managing delivery through to release

Key Expectations

• Delivery Focus – Prioritise getting well‑engineered parts into production, not just producing CAD
• Design for Manufacture – Understand how parts are made and ensure designs reflect real‑world constraints
• Rapid Iteration – Work efficiently through design–review–refine cycles with minimal overhead
• Ownership – Take responsibility for your designs from concept through to in‑service performance
• Collaborative Engineering – Work closely with others in a small team environment where informal interaction replaces heavy process
• Adaptability – Manage multiple priorities across both planned and reactive engineering work

About You

Typically 2–5+ years’ experience in a high‑performance engineering environment (e.g. F1, America’s Cup, aerospace or similar), or equivalent capability. Holds a degree in Engineering or an equivalent qualification. Strong capability in 3D CAD modelling and 2D drawing creation. Good understanding of GD&T, tolerancing, and mechanical assembly design. Solid awareness of composite structures and how they influence mechanical design decisions. Comfortable working across the design lifecycle from concept through to manufacture. Able to work independently while contributing effectively within a small, highly collaborative team. Comfortable working in a fast‑paced, delivery‑driven environment with shifting priorities. Project management experience is beneficial but not required.

SailGP Technologies is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace committed to building a team culture that celebrates diversity and inclusion.