924 Design Engineer jobs in the United Kingdom

Ready to work at the cutting edge of secure engineering?

We’re seeking DV Security Cleared Mechanical Design Engineers to join a leading UK consultancy supporting high-security government and defence projects.

What’s on offer?

- Complex, mission-critical work in secure environments

- Innovative, supportive team culture

- Competitive salary and great benefits

- The chance to make a real impact

You’ll need:

- Active DV clearance

- Rockstar technical skills (Electrical or Mechanical Design)

- Passion for excellence and problem solving

If you’re driven by challenge and purpose, this is your opportunity.

Shape the future—apply now!

We are seeking a Mechanical Design Engineer to work with our client, a leading defence engineering organisation.

The role involves working on the full product lifecycle from concept development through to design proving and prototype validation.

Responsible for producing high‑integrity mechanical components, complex mechanisms, and sub-systems designed to perform reliably in demanding and harsh environments.

We are seeking strong technical expertise in CREO Parametric CAD , experience of working on armoured vehicle systems or equivalent defence programmes, and a passion for developing innovative yet practical design solutions.

Responsibilities

• Interpret design briefs and requirement specifications to create robust, compliant mechanical solutions.
• Develop both concept and detailed designs using CREO Parametric CAD .
• Produce supporting analysis and calculations, including structural and kinematic validation.
• Collaborate with engineering specialists and technical authorities across survivability, lethality, communications, and sensor systems.
• Work within a multi-disciplinary team to deliver integrated sub-system designs.
• Oversee the creation of drawings and formal design documentation.
• Present design packs for technical design reviews to senior engineers and stakeholders.
• Support prototype manufacturing, working closely with supply chain and production teams.
• Carry out testing and design proving activities on engineering prototypes.
• Ensure adherence to safety standards, compliance regulations, and industry best practice.

Skills & Experience

• Proven background in mechanical design within the defence industry , specifically armoured fighting vehicles or similar high-integrity platforms.
• Demonstrable track record in the design and development of mechanical sub-systems and components.
• Strong ability to create complex parametric designs within CREO .
• Proficiency with Windchill or equivalent product data management tools.
• In-depth knowledge of mechanism design and related engineering principles.
• Practical experience with relevant materials, treatments, and finishing technologies for harsh environments.
• Strong problem-solving, organisational, and documentation skills.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within project teams.

MERITUS Talent are working with one of Europe's leading defence systems manufacturers for the recruitment of a Mechanical Design Engineer to join their Bristol office on a 12 Month contract basis. The rate on offer is £50 per hour INSIDE IR35, and requires the candidate to be onsite full-time. Before starting the role, the candidate must undergo and attain SC security clearance.

Job Title: Mechanical Design Engineer
Location: Bristol (on-site)
Rate: £50 per hour (via umbrella)
Contract: 12 Months
Security Clearance: Must be eligible to obtain UK SC clearance

A leading defence engineering organisation is seeking a Mechanical Design Engineer to join their team in Bristol. In this role, you'll be working on the mechanical design of complex systems, contributing to high-profile defence projects within a multi-disciplinary engineering environment.

• Creating and developing 3D designs of components and assemblies using Creo

• Supporting the transition from design to manufacturing, resolving technical queries as needed

• Assisting in functional and environmental testing to ensure designs meet performance requirements

• Liaising with suppliers and internal purchasing teams to address design or build challenges

• Planning and managing your own tasks in line with project deadlines and reporting requirements

• Reviewing and refining technical requirements to reduce cost, complexity and lead time

• Proficient in Creo 3D CAD software

• Strong understanding of mechanical engineering principles and manufacturing processes

• Experience in one or more of the following:

  • Tolerance analysis

  • Structural design and environmental testing

  • Material selection

  • FMEA

  • Mass property calculations

  • Gasket sealing and design for manufacture/assembly

  • Working with Defence Standards

  • Product life cycle management

• Comfortable working in a cross-functional team and participating in design reviews

• A broad appreciation of other engineering disciplines (eg systems, electronics) is a plus

This is a great opportunity to be part of a highly skilled engineering team, working on critical systems in a challenging but rewarding environment.

To apply , please send your CV and availability.

Mechanical Design Engineer

Location : Gloucester (with some potential worldwide travel)

Type : Full-Time

Salary : £40,000 to £55,000 per annum + Benefits

About the client

This Gloucester-based client is a leader in innovative engineering solutions. They design and deliver cutting-edge machines and tooling that drive efficiency and excellence. Join their dynamic team to contribute to world-class engineering projects and make a global impact.

The Role

We’re seeking a skilled Mechanical Design Engineer to join my client’s Design team, reporting to the Design Manager. You’ll play a key role in creating high-quality engineering drawings and designs using SolidWorks, ensuring alignment with technical and commercial requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, detail, and develop machinery and tooling using SolidWorks.
• Create proposal drawings for customers during the quotation process.
• Ensure all documentation, including schedules, manuals, and spares lists, is accurately updated, referenced, and stored.
• Drive cost reductions, improved efficiencies, and simpler design solutions for quicker assembly and enhanced reliability.
• Identify opportunities for process, productivity, and quality improvements, escalating issues to management.
• Participate in hands-on trials and machine testing.
• Undertake worldwide travel, including occasional weekend work, to support customers.
• Build effective relationships with internal and external stakeholders, customers, and suppliers.
• Contribute to improvement projects and undertake additional tasks as needed.

What We’re Looking For

• Strong working knowledge of SolidWorks.
• Ideally HNC or equivalent in Mechanical Engineering.
• Ability to perform design calculations for mechanical components, drives, and structures.
• Proficiency in interpreting technical drawings, geometric tolerancing, and specifications.
• Understanding of manufacturing processes.
• Excellent organisational, communication, and interpersonal skills, with experience building professional relationships.
• Commercial awareness and problem-solving skills to analyse situations and provide timely solutions.
• Ability to work accurately and calmly under pressure, meeting tight deadlines and adapting to sudden changes in demand.
• Team player with a proactive and positive attitude.
• Full passport and fully COVID vaccinated for international travel.
• Applicants must have full rights to work in the UK (no sponsorship available)

Why Join Us?

• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
• Opportunity to work on innovative engineering projects with global impact.
• Collaborative and supportive team environment.
• Opportunities for professional development and career growth.
• Be part of a company committed to excellence and ethical standards.

For more information on this role, please contact Paul Furlong on or send a copy of your CV to

• Candidates who are currently a Design Engineer, product design engineer or Tooling Design Engineer may be suitable for this position
• For details of other opportunities available within your chosen field please visit our website

Mechanical Design Engineer | Martine | AUV | Robotics | Harwell – Hybrid | £45,000pa - £55,000pa plus share scheme & benefits:

A once in a lifetime opportunity has arisen for a passionate Mechanical Design Engineer to join a stealth robotics company based in the Oxfordshire area. This amazing business and AUV submersible robot has massive potential across a range of different industry sectors. The Mechanical Design Engineer will be responsible for the design, develop, and validate advanced mechanical sub-systems for their next generation unmanned underwater platforms. This role will play a pivotal part in enhancing the capability, performance, and durability of submersible robotic systems.

If you’re passionate about robotics within the maritime industry and the autonomous vehicle and unmanned vehicle industry, you honestly need to make contact with us, this one is not to be missed. Candidates must be British Citizens or have lived in the UK for a minimum of 5 years, due to needing SC clearance.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conceptualise and develop mechanical solutions to meet milestone deliverables.
• Produce robust technical drawings to BS 888 standards for both in-house assembly and external manufacture.
• Select appropriate materials and manufacturing processes to meet performance and durability goals.
• Review and check manufacturing drawings and mechanical designs.
• Manage personal tasks and priorities to ensure timely delivery of project objectives.
• Integrate a wide array of sensors (e.g., sonar, cameras, and other sensitive electronics) and actuators using established engineering practices.
• Lead testing and validation efforts, including hardware testing and live sea trials, ensuring performance in demanding marine environments.
• Collaborate within a multidisciplinary team—including systems, software, and electrical engineers—to ensure cohesive system integration.
• Maintain clear documentation and manage document control using defined revision control processes.
• Chair and participate in engineering design reviews.
• Contribute to and help improve internal engineering processes and procedures.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Robotics, or a related field
• 8+ years of experience in mechanical engineering design.
• Strong expertise in SolidWorks for modelling, assembly, analysis, and drafting.
• Ability to work in field conditions, including support for field testing and sea deployments.

Preferred Experience:

• Experience in maritime, defence, or subsea robotics industries.
• Knowledge of complex mechanisms, PCB integration, and thermal management in constrained environments.
• Proficiency in Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including confidence in presenting and chairing design reviews.
• Familiarity with modern manufacturing techniques and processes.
• Hands-on experience with assembly of complex mechanical systems including motors, linkages, flexible and rigid structures, and PCB integration.
• Understanding of ergonomics and anthropometrics.

If you’re passionate about both robotics, in particular autonomous underwater or submersible vehicle and unmanned vehicle industry, and you love mechanical engineering within this space, please get in touch ASAP.

MARS Recruitment is an equal opportunities employer and positively welcomes applications from suitably qualified applicants regardless of race, colour, sex, marital status, national origin, religion, age, disability, or any other protected status. Suitable candidates for the role will be contacted within 3 working days, unfortunately if you haven’t heard back in this time your application has been unsuccessful at this time

MARS Recruitment is a specialist Engineering & IT recruiter working in partnership with companies across the UK and offers services of both an Employment Business (for Temporary/Contract roles) and an Employment Agency (for Permanent roles).

Job Title: Mechanical Design Engineer

Location: Lichfield

Term: 12 Months

IR35: INSIDE

Hourly Rate: £DOE

Key Skills: Mechanical Design, Engineering, SolidWorks, Enclosures, CAD, 2D, 3D, Modelling, Fabrication, Welding, Casting, Documentation

We are seeking an experienced Mechanical Engineer with a strong background in complex enclosure design to join our team.

Our work spans a wide range of demanding applications, from electric field sensors for deep ocean exploration to high-power electric motors and converters. Operating in integrated product teams, our engineers are engaged throughout the entire product development lifecycle—from initial concept through to final delivery.

In this role, you will work closely with our Mechanical Design team and cross-functional engineering specialists to create robust mechanical solutions that support our cutting-edge defence products.

The Role:

So, what will you be doing as a Mechanical Design Engineer?

• Create detailed 3D models and drawings using CAD software.
• Support product development through hands-on mechanical design activities.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of engineering standards and practices within the organisation.
• Provide mechanical engineering expertise to support both current projects and future business opportunities.

What are we looking for in our next Mechanical Design Engineer?

• Degree or higher qualification in Mechanical Engineering.
• Broad understanding of multi-disciplinary engineering principles, including systems, electrical, electro-mechanical, and rotating machinery.
• Experience with manufacturing techniques relevant to electrical enclosures, including metal fabrication, casting, welding, machining, and corrosion protection.
• Proficient in SolidWorks for 3D modelling and design documentation.
• Strong knowledge of materials and their application in mechanical design.
• Familiarity with structured design processes, including gated development phases and formal design reviews.
• Proven experience designing for demanding environments, with considerations for shock, EMC, and thermal constraints.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to work effectively within cross-functional teams.

My client is keen to get this position filled ASAP, so if you feel you have the skills and desire to provide passion and drive as the next Mechanical Design Engineer, this is the opportunity for you!

***PLEASE NOTE***

• Security Clearance (SC) or eligibility to gain is required to be considered for this vacancy

Job Title: Design Engineer

Location: Hull

Salary: £30,000 - £40,000 per annum

We are seeking a versatile and motivated Design Engineer with some sales experience to join our team in Hull. This role will combine technical design work with customer interaction, providing a unique opportunity to be involved in projects from concept through to delivery.

Key Responsibilities:

• Produce high-quality 3D and 2D designs using SolidWorks
• Liaise with customers to understand technical requirements and propose solutions
• Support the sales process by preparing technical proposals, drawings, and costings
• Work with the engineering team to ensure designs meet customer specifications and industry standards
• Assist in the development of new products and continuous improvement of existing designs

Requirements:

• Proficiency in SolidWorks (essential)
• Previous design engineering experience
• Strong communication and customer-facing skills
• Hydraulics experience would be highly beneficial
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
• Strong problem-solving and organisational skills

If you are interested in this position, please apply, or email Charlotte White at for more information

JOB – Mechanical Design Engineer (Pipework Systems)

LOCATION – Harrogate

TERM – Permanent

SALARY – £35,000 to £45,000 per annum (plus benefits)

My client is a well-established engineering company specialising in the design and manufacture of complex pipework and pipe systems for a range of industries. They are looking to expand their design team by taking on a Mechanical Design Engineer to join their growing engineering department.

The Mechanical Design Engineer will ideally have the following attributes:

• Previous experience working with pipework, piping systems, or pressure vessels

• Strong proficiency with 3D CAD software (SolidWorks, Inventor, or similar)

• Engineering qualification (HNC, HND, BEng, MEng, or equivalent) in Mechanical Engineering or related

• Knowledge of relevant design codes and standards (ASME, PED, BS EN etc.)

• Ability to produce accurate drawings, models, and BOMs

• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills

• Able to work well both individually and as part of a team

• Excellent communication skills (written and verbal)

The Mechanical Design Engineer role will involve:

• Designing and developing complex pipework and piping systems for industrial applications

• Producing detailed CAD models, drawings, and supporting documentation

• Conducting design calculations and ensuring compliance with relevant standards

• Generating Bills of Materials (BOMs) and technical documentation

• Working closely with project engineers, manufacturing, and commissioning teams

• Liaising with clients and suppliers on technical requirements

• Supporting continuous improvement of design processes and standards

If you are interested in this position, please apply with an up-to-date CV as soon as possible, along with your availability and salary expectations.

Job Title: Mechanical Design Engineer

Location: Bedford

Salary: £35,000 - £45,000 per annum

We are seeking a talented and driven Mechanical Design Engineer with a focus on robotics, automation, and special-purpose machinery to join our client in Bedford. This is an exciting opportunity to work on innovative engineering projects from concept through to manufacture, integrating mechanical, electrical, and automation systems.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design and develop automated machinery, robotic systems, and mechanical components using CAD software (SolidWorks preferred)
• Create detailed 3D models, assembly drawings, and manufacturing documentation
• Work closely with electrical and controls engineers to integrate automation and robotics into machinery designs
• Perform engineering calculations, structural analysis, and design validation to ensure performance and safety standards are met
• Collaborate with manufacturing, assembly, and testing teams to ensure smooth project delivery
• Manage projects from initial concept through to commissioning, ensuring timelines and budgets are met
• Support continuous improvement initiatives, applying innovative design solutions to increase efficiency and productivity

Skills and Qualifications:

• Degree in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline
• Proven experience in mechanical design for robotics, automation, or special-purpose machinery
• Proficiency in CAD software (SolidWorks preferred)
• Understanding of mechanical, pneumatic, and automation principles
• Experience working alongside electrical and control engineering teams
• Strong problem-solving abilities and attention to detail
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team
• Excellent communication and organisational skills

If you or anyone you know would be a good fit for the role, click apply or send your up-to-date CV to