Mechanical Engineer (Safety Critical Equipment) in Appley Bridge

Mechanical Engineer (Safety Critical Equipment)

Role Overview
This is a hands-on, workshop-focused safety-critical role. You will take mechanical products from concept through to certified production release. Current projects include a full face diving mask, an underwater low air warning system, heated diving gloves and an underwater navigation system.

Key Responsibilities
Product Design & Development
> Design mechanical components and assemblies using SolidWorks, Autodesk, or equivalent 3D CAD software. > Produce detailed 2D technical drawings with GD&T, limits & fits, surface finishes, and full manufacturing details.
> Develop products using a range of manufacturing methods including CNC machining, injection moulding, forging, and additive manufacturing.
> Conduct material selection based on operating environment, strength, corrosion resistance, temperature, and safety standards.
> Create exploded views, BOMs, assembly documentation, and design specifications.

Project Engineering & Lifecycle Management
> Manage full lifecycle delivery of mechanical projects from concept generation through to validation, certification, and production release.
> Conduct DFMEA, Production FMEA, time studies, PPAP documentation, and create SOPs for production teams.
> Develop technical files including verification/validation test reports, compliance documentation, and user instructions.
> Coordinate cross‑functional project teams, including electronics, software, manufacturing, quality, and external suppliers.

Testing & Verification
> Design and build test rigs, fixtures, and jigs for mechanical testing and verification.
> Conduct design verification testing, including high‑pressure, depth, corrosion, and environmental performance tests.
> Collaborate with external laboratories, notified bodies, and test houses for CE, PPE Regulation 2016/425, and relevant certification.
> Perform root cause analysis (hands‑on and CAD‑based) and implement corrective actions.

Manufacturing & Production Support
> Support production operations through engineering guidance, troubleshooting, and lean manufacturing initiatives.
> Provide technical training for workshop staff and assembly technicians.
> Conduct inspection activities using measurement tools such as micrometers, verniers, shadowgraph, and custom gauges.
> Assist with designing custom tools, checking gauges, and process improvements for efficient assembly.

Technical Collaboration & Stakeholder Engagement
> Liaise with customers, suppliers, and stakeholders to gather requirements, provide technical support, and ensure product performance.
> Provide technical guidance on component interaction, manufacturability, and cost‑effective design.
> Support marketing and sales with technical insights, product details, and training.
> Participate in international travel for end‑user training, product support, and collaborative development.

Candidate Specification
Mechanical design experience, ideally in a manufacturing or safety-critical setting.  Proficiency in SolidWorks or Autodesk.  Extensive knowledge of GD&T, limits and fits, material selection and engineering tolerances.  Hands on experience with workshop tools, machinery,soldering, crimping, brazing and prototyping.  Knowledge of design methodologies including FMEA, DFMEA, PPAP and NPI.  Ability to manage multiple projects, prioritise workload and meet strict deadlines.  Understanding of CE and PPE compliance (desirable).  A collaborative, can-do attitude and attention to detail

What we offer
- Free onsite parking
- Career development opportunities
- A week off over Christmas
- An annual bonus scheme
- A supportive, can-do team