Mechanical Design Engineer

Our client is a global leader in automotive manufacturing, supplying some of the world's most recognised vehicle manufacturers. Specialising in advanced aluminium casting and automation technologies, they are looking for aMechanical Design Engineerto join their engineering team Their state-of-the-art manufacturing facility offers engineers the opportunity to work on cutting-edge automation projects while contributing to the future of automotive manufacturing.

Key Responsibilities

As a Mechanical Design Engineer, you will play a pivotal role in the design and development of automation equipment, supporting projects from initial concept through to commissioning. Working within a collaborative engineering environment, you will develop innovative mechanical solutions that improve manufacturing efficiency, quality and safety.

Designing robotic grippers, CNC fixtures, stillages, heat treatment racks and automated manufacturing equipment.

Producing equipment layouts while considering manufacturing efficiency and operator ergonomics.

Developing concept designs into robust engineering solutions that meet customer requirements.

Creating 3D CAD models and detailed 2D manufacturing drawings using SolidWorks, CATIA or similar CAD software.

Conducting design reviews, layout simulations and validating mechanical designs throughout the project lifecycle.

Applying Design for Manufacture (DFM) principles to optimise designs for production, reducing complexity, cost and assembly time.

Managing external suppliers throughout the design, manufacture and commissioning process.

Supporting equipment buy-off activities, factory acceptance testing (FAT), site acceptance testing (SAT), commissioning and production launch.

Completing feasibility studies and design reviews, ensuring compliance with dimensional capability, tolerancing and GD&T requirements.

Maintaining engineering drawings with robust revision control.

Reviewing and validating FEA analysis during the equipment approval process.

Researching and implementing the latest automation technologies to drive innovation across manufacturing operations.

Qualifications & Experience

HNC, apprenticeship or equivalent qualification in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline.

Experience in front-end mechanical design within a manufacturing or automation environment.

Proficiency in 2D and 3D CAD software such as SolidWorks, CATIA or similar.

Experience designing automation equipment, robotic tooling, fixtures or special purpose machinery.

Strong understanding of mechanical engineering principles and manufacturing processes.

Knowledge of Design for Manufacture (DFM), GD&T and dimensional capability analysis.

Experience managing engineering projects and working with external suppliers.

Strong problem-solving skills with experience in Root Cause Analysis.

Experience of DFMEA and PFMEA methodologies is advantageous.

Automotive manufacturing experience is desirable.

Knowledge of aluminium casting processes would be beneficial.

Summary

This is an exciting opportunity to join a world-class engineering organisation investing heavily in automation and advanced manufacturing technologies. You'll work on technically challenging projects from concept through to production, developing innovative robotic and mechanical solutions that support the next generation of automotive manufacturing. In return, you'll join a collaborative engineering team where your ideas are valued, your technical expertise will continue to develop, and you'll play a key role in delivering industry-leading automation solutions