Principal Mechanical Engineer (Permanent) in Cambridge

Socode are pleased to represent a key client who are developing space-grade hardware to be used for earth observations, in their search for a Principal Mechanical Engineer to lead the mechanical design of a payload through its full lifecycle — from early-stage concept and design through to FEA, qualification, and manufacture. Please note this is a hybrid role based in Cambridge. The first 3 months are full-time on-site, moving to a flexible 60/40 split thereafter.

High-impact role on mission-critical hardware, where your work is visible from day one. A genuine opportunity to take technical ownership of a product and grow into a systems-level leadership position. Start-up environment which is varied, fast-paced, and the chance to wear many hats. Strong package: private medical healthcare, company pension, 25 days' annual leave plus UK bank holidays, and an annual professional development allowance. A high-trust culture.

A rock-solid grounding in engineering fundamentals such as statics, dynamics, vibration, and heat transfer (studied to degree level is sufficient — you won't need to be an expert in each area; expertise in one specialist area is welcomed), through analytical, simulation, and empirical methods. First-principles thinking and hand calculations are at the core of how you work. Strong FEA capability. You don't need to be running analysis day in, day out currently, but you should have the depth to lead full payload-level FEA. Siemens NASTRAN experience is a plus, though training can be provided for the right candidate. Proven mechanical design experience across the lifecycle, including machined and fabricated components, and confidence in Solidworks. The breadth and maturity of a Principal-level engineer — someone who can take ownership of an entire product, understand system architecture, and liaise directly with electronics and software engineers. Excellent written and verbal communication, with experience producing clear technical documentation and working across multidisciplinary teams. Master's Degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, or a related engineering discipline, with 5+ years of experience. No aerospace or space background is required; what matters is that you meet the criteria with strong fundamentals.

Leading the mechanical development of a payload currently in its early-stage design phase, understanding how the product works at a deep level through design, assembly, and manufacturing before transitioning into analysis. Running full payload-level FEA, analysing the entire system rather than individual subcomponents, including how it behaves thermally in orbit. FEA will be used in focused bursts, with design and manufacturing forming the bulk of the day-to-day. Leading structural, vibration, and thermal analysis activities, including correlation and validation testing. Planning and leading vibration and thermal test campaigns, from definition through execution and reporting. Providing technical guidance and review for more junior mechanical engineers, and working closely with electronics, systems, optics, manufacturing, and test engineers to ensure successful integration and delivery.

This is a role you'll grow into. You won't be expected to be a product owner within a year, but by demonstrating your skills you'll have a clear path towards systems engineering and driving design positions across domains, not just mechanical. For those not yet at technical-leadership level, there's scope to build on management and product-ownership experience.

Then you can either submit your CV by applying to this job advert or connect with me on LinkedIn for an informal discussion.