Mechanical Engineer (Wearable Systems) in Reading

Location: Reading, UK (Hybrid)

About XYZ Reality

XYZ Reality are the creators of the world’s first engineering-grade Augmented Reality solution for the construction industry. Our technology sits within “The Atom” – a smart, site-safe headset/hardhat – and is implemented on projects to ensure schemes meet delivery timescales and budgets. With over 100 staff across the UK, US & Europe, we partner with mission‑critical organisations and construction companies to deliver major projects.

The Role

We are developing the next generation of wearable AR products for the construction industry. We need a Mechanical Engineer to design, certify, and deliver helmet‑mounted systems. You will work closely with a multidisciplinary R&D team, overseeing the product from concept to production.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop helmet‑mounted AR systems and accessories in SolidWorks, producing 3‑D models, assemblies, engineering drawings, and production documentation.
• Support ANSI Type II and EN397 certification programmes, coordinating with certification bodies and testing laboratories, and overseeing environmental, drop, impact, vibration, and ingress testing.
• Integrate sensor systems, batteries, antennas, optics, cameras, and electronics into compact wearable platforms, ensuring thermal management, electronics packaging, and ergonomics.
• Lead and support DFM and DFA activities, creating assembly instructions and engineering change documentation for scalable production.
• Manage relationships with external suppliers, contract manufacturers, and certification laboratories, ensuring components meet design intent and regulatory requirements.
• Collaborate with Hardware, Embedded, Production, Software, and R&D teams throughout concept, design reviews, prototyping, and validation.

Required Qualifications

• Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Product Design Engineering, or related discipline, with 3–5 years of product development experience from concept through prototype and production.
• Strong SolidWorks CAD skills, including 3‑D modelling, assemblies, engineering drawings, tolerance analysis and material selection.
• Hands‑on prototyping and workshop experience in injection moulding, machining, sheet metal fabrication, and additive manufacturing.
• Experience with external suppliers and manufacturers, comfortable in a fast‑paced multidisciplinary team.
• Knowledge of PPE, wearables, or certification standards (ANSI, EN397, CE, UKCA) is advantageous.

Key Experience & Skills

• DFM / DFA and manufacturing transition support.
• Integration of sensors, optics, battery and electronics into wearables.
• Hands‑on prototyping, practical workshop and problem‑solving skills.

Benefits

• 25 days annual leave plus public holidays.
• Private healthcare with Vitality.
• Christmas shutdown days (usually 2–4 per year).
• 5 weeks holiday plus additional Christmas days.
• Biannual salary reviews.
• Opportunity to make a real‑world impact by revolutionising the construction industry.