At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead mechanical design for innovative vibration control systems and prototype testing.
- Company: Specialist acoustic engineering firm focused on advanced technology solutions.
- Benefits: Competitive hourly rate, hybrid work model, and hands-on project experience.
- Other info: Flexible working hours and opportunity to mentor a graduate engineer.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in high-tech industries while developing your engineering skills.
- Qualifications: Expertise in SolidWorks, experience with electromechanical products, and strong problem-solving skills.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 54000 £ per year.
Join a specialist acoustic engineering company that designs and manufactures active vibration control systems for floors. Utilising advanced sensor and actuator technology, their smart resonance‑cancelling solutions dramatically reduce structural movement, optimising dynamic performance for high‑tech, medical, and commercial buildings.
We’re looking for an experienced Contract Mechanical Design Engineer to lead the end‑to‑end mechanical design of their next‑generation product variant. You will report directly to the CTO and take total ownership of the design cycle, from concept and detailed design through to prototyping, validation, and manufacturing handover.
Responsibilities- Lead the concept generation, detailed CAD layout, and geometric rearrangement for the new product variant.
- Build, test, measure, and iterate physical prototypes; this is a highly practical role.
- Articulate the design process beyond CAD drawings. Produce rigorous summary reports, structural justifications, and documentation to support regulatory compliance.
- Work closely with and guide a graduate mechanical engineer who is already in post, providing design support.
- Partner with the internal electronics engineer and general Research & Development Engineers under the direction of the CTO.
- Experience taking complex electromechanical products from concept through to manufacturing.
- Expert-level SolidWorks and SolidWorks Simulation skills, with demonstrable experience in FEA for structural, modal, and fatigue analysis.
- A natural problem‑solver who is comfortable stepping away from the screen to get hands‑on with physical prototyping assemblies and testing.
- Comfort with an ad‑hoc, flexible working arrangement to accommodate the natural peaks and troughs of R&D workflows (e.g., waiting for manufactured parts).
- The contractor to provide their own CAD laptop and SolidWorks with Simulation capabilities (though provisions can be negotiated if required).
Circa 22.5 hours | 1 hour lunch | Monday to Friday | Core Operating Hours 9am to 5:30pm
Contract Mechanical Design Engineer employer: Solid Talent
Join a forward-thinking acoustic engineering company in Devon, where innovation meets collaboration. With a strong emphasis on employee growth and a supportive work culture, you will have the opportunity to lead exciting projects while mentoring junior engineers. Enjoy the flexibility of a hybrid working model that accommodates your needs, all while contributing to cutting-edge technology that enhances the performance of high-tech buildings.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Contract Mechanical Design Engineer
✨Connect with Local Engineering Groups
Mechanical engineering is all about community, so dive into local engineering meetups or chapters of professional societies like the IMechE. Networking in these spaces can lead to temporary roles since companies often look to fill positions quickly through trusted referrals.
✨Leverage University Resources
If you're still connected to your university, make sure to hit up their career services. They often have listings for temporary gigs or can connect you with alumni who are working in companies like Solid Talent — they could have insight on temp roles that aren't widely advertised!
✨Showcase Your Skills Through Projects
Temporary roles can be competitive, so having a portfolio can set you apart. Whether it’s a personal project or even work from your studies, show off your design or prototyping skills. Get these on LinkedIn or a simple website — you’ll want to make a quick impression!
✨Apply Quickly and Follow-Up
In the temporary job space, timing is everything! Apply through our website as soon as you see the role for Contract Mechanical Design Engineer at Solid Talent. After a few days, don’t hesitate to follow up with a friendly email or call to show your enthusiasm and commitment. It could really make a difference!
We think you need these skills to ace Contract Mechanical Design Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Engineering Projects:For a temporary role in mechanical engineering, it’s key to highlight any projects or internships you’ve worked on. Include details about your contributions, the technologies used, and any results achieved. This helps us see the practical application of your skills right from the get-go!
Tailor Your CV for Mechanical Engineering:Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills that mechanical engineering demands. Mention your proficiency with CAD software, your understanding of thermodynamics, and any relevant design projects. We love seeing applicants who can directly relate their experience to what we do!
Emphasise Your Adaptability:Since this is a temporary role, we want to know that you can hit the ground running! In your cover letter, share examples of how you’ve quickly adapted to new environments or challenges in previous positions. This will give us confidence in your ability to contribute effectively.
Be Ready to Discuss Your Experience:Prepare to elaborate on your experiences during the application process. We might ask for specific examples of times you’ve solved engineering problems or collaborated on projects. Having those ready will make you stand out during our review!
How to prepare for a job interview at Solid Talent
✨Brush Up on Technical Skills
Since this is in mechanical engineering, be prepared to answer technical questions related to design principles and mechanical systems. Get familiar with key tools like CAD software and any specific methodologies relevant to the job. If they ask, being able to talk through a recent project where you used these skills will definitely set you apart!
✨Have Your Portfolio Ready
Even though it’s a temporary role, showcasing a solid portfolio could be a game-changer. Gather up your best designs or projects, especially any that align with the work at Solid Talent. Be ready to discuss how you approached these tasks and the outcomes; it's an opportunity to demonstrate your practical experience even in a brief timeframe.
✨Show Enthusiasm for Constant Learning
In temporary roles, employers often look for candidates who can hit the ground running. Make it clear that you’re keen to absorb as much knowledge as you can while you’re there. Talk about any relevant courses or workshops you've taken recently that keep your skills sharp; it demonstrates your commitment to the field and your willingness to adapt quickly.
✨Understand Project Timelines and Flexibility
Temporary positions can often involve shifting priorities or tight deadlines. Be ready to discuss how you’ve managed your time in previous roles, especially in environments where things were fluid. Highlighting your adaptability will reassure Solid Talent that you can handle the unexpected without losing steam.
