Design Engineer

Design Engineer

Full-Time 40000 - 50000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
Solid State PLC

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead the design of rugged hardware systems from concept to production.
  • Company: Join Steatite, a leader in advanced technology solutions.
  • Benefits: Enjoy 26 days annual leave, EV salary sacrifice, and profit share.
  • Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for career growth and innovation.
  • Why this job: Work on mission-critical projects that make a real-world impact.
  • Qualifications: Degree in Engineering and experience in hardware development required.

The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.

This role is subject to successful completion of BPSS clearance prior to commencement. Please review our Security Clearance Guidance for Applicants before applying.

About Us

At Steatite, we design, manufacture, and supply advanced technology solutions from industrial embedded computing and custom lithium battery packs to secure communications, antennas, and imaging systems. Our innovations operate in some of the world’s most demanding environments. From the ocean floor to the edge of space, Steatite technology ensures critical systems perform reliably, consistently, and safely 24/7. Whether enabling scientific discovery in extreme conditions, transmitting high-bandwidth data across challenging terrain, processing vast volumes of traffic data, or supporting secure transactions on the move, our solutions are built to perform when it matters most. From day one, you will be part of an organisation that prioritises your safety and wellbeing, values your contribution, and is committed to making your career both rewarding and impactful.

The Role

We are seeking an experienced Design Engineer to join Steatite Integrated Systems in Tewkesbury, supporting the development of ruggedised hardware systems used within demanding defence, transport, industrial and security environments. This is a hands‑on engineering role focused on leading the design and development of innovative mechanical and/or electronic hardware solutions from concept through to validation and production. You will play a key role in influencing technical direction, supporting complex engineering projects and ensuring designs meet required performance, environmental and compliance standards.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead the design and development of ruggedised hardware systems from concept through to production
  • Produce and review technical documentation, engineering drawings, specifications and 3D models
  • Perform design calculations, simulations and tolerance analysis
  • Ensure designs meet environmental, EMC and industry compliance standards
  • Support technical reviews, validation activities and product evaluations
  • Collaborate with manufacturing, supply chain, quality and engineering teams
  • Liaise with external suppliers and technical partners
  • Drive continuous improvement across design, reliability and cost optimisation activities
  • Support technical problem solving and engineering decision‑making throughout the product lifecycle

Skills & Experience

  • Previous experience within a Design Engineer or hardware development role
  • Degree or equivalent experience in Mechanical, Electrical, Electronic or Systems Engineering
  • Experience designing products for regulated or harsh operating environments such as defence, rail, aerospace or industrial sectors
  • Strong understanding of mechanical and/or electrical integration principles
  • Experience producing engineering drawings and technical documentation
  • Proficiency using CAD tools such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD
  • Understanding of EMC and environmental compliance considerations
  • Strong analytical, problem‑solving and communication skills
  • Ability to manage technical tasks independently and take ownership of deliverables

Desirable

  • Experience designing ruggedised or mission‑critical systems
  • Product validation, environmental testing or certification experience
  • Knowledge of thermal management, power systems or embedded computing integration
  • Experience mentoring or supporting junior engineers

Why Join Us

  • Opportunity to work on innovative and mission‑critical engineering projects used within demanding real‑world environments
  • Play a key role in shaping the design and development of advanced ruggedised technology solutions
  • Gain exposure across the full product lifecycle from concept and validation through to production
  • Work within a highly skilled and collaborative engineering environment
  • Opportunity to influence technical standards, product direction and continuous improvement activities
  • Develop technical capability across complex mechanical, electrical and systems engineering projects
  • Be part of a growing engineering business focused on innovation, reliability and technical excellence

Benefits For You

  • EV Salary Sacrifice Scheme
  • 26 Days Annual Leave Plus Bank Holidays + More For Length of Service
  • Pensions Plan
  • Company Sick Pay Scheme
  • Life Assurance Scheme
  • Profit Share Scheme
  • All Employee Share Plan

We are an equal opportunity employer fostering an inclusive recruitment experience for all candidates.

Design Engineer employer: Solid State PLC

At Steatite, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Tewkesbury where innovation meets real-world challenges. As a Design Engineer, you will engage in cutting-edge projects that not only enhance your technical skills but also contribute to mission-critical solutions across various sectors. With a strong focus on employee wellbeing, professional growth opportunities, and a collaborative culture, Steatite is committed to ensuring that your career is both rewarding and impactful.

Solid State PLC

Contact Details:

Solid State PLC Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Design Engineer

Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at Steatite on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral, which can really boost your chances.

Tip Number 2

Prepare for the interview by diving deep into Steatite's projects and values. Show us that you’re not just another candidate; demonstrate how your skills align with our mission of delivering reliable technology in demanding environments.

Tip Number 3

Practice your technical skills! Be ready to discuss your design process and problem-solving strategies. We love seeing candidates who can think on their feet and tackle real-world engineering challenges.

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, it shows us you’re genuinely interested in joining our team.

We think you need these skills to ace Design Engineer

Design Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Electrical Engineering
Electronic Hardware Development
Technical Documentation
Engineering Drawings
3D Modelling

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Design Engineer role. Highlight relevant experience and skills that match the job description, especially in ruggedised hardware systems and compliance standards.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about the role and how your background makes you a perfect fit for Steatite. Don’t forget to mention any experience with harsh operating environments!

Showcase Your Technical Skills:Be sure to include specific examples of your technical skills, like your proficiency with CAD tools such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD. Mention any projects where you’ve led design and development efforts, especially in regulated sectors.

Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and get you on the path to joining our innovative team!

How to prepare for a job interview at Solid State PLC

Know Your Stuff

Make sure you brush up on your technical knowledge related to mechanical and electrical integration principles. Familiarise yourself with the specific technologies Steatite uses, like ruggedised hardware systems and compliance standards. This will show that you're not just interested in the role but also understand the challenges and requirements involved.

Showcase Your Experience

Prepare to discuss your previous experience in designing products for regulated or harsh environments. Have specific examples ready that highlight your problem-solving skills and how you've contributed to complex engineering projects. This will help demonstrate your capability to handle the demands of the role.

Get Hands-On with CAD Tools

Since proficiency in CAD tools like SolidWorks or AutoCAD is crucial, make sure you can talk about your experience using these tools. If possible, bring along a portfolio of your work or be ready to discuss specific projects where you used these tools effectively.

Ask Smart Questions

Prepare thoughtful questions about the role and the company. Inquire about the types of projects you'll be working on, the team dynamics, and how Steatite approaches continuous improvement. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.