Principal Mechanical Design Engineer
Meet Our Recruiter
Hanneke Silvester
About the Role
Role Overview
I am looking for an experienced Principal Mechanical Design Engineer to lead the design, development, and technical delivery of complex mechanical systems across a diverse portfolio of engineering projects.
This is a senior technical leadership position suited to an individual who combines mechanical design expertise with strategic thinking, mentorship capability, and the confidence to interface directly with clients and stakeholders. The role is predominantly remote, with periodic travel required for site visits, design reviews, testing, and client engagement.
Key Responsibilities
Technical Leadership
- Lead mechanical design activities from concept through detailed design, manufacture, installation, and commissioning.
- Own technical decision-making across multiple concurrent projects.
- Develop and approve design concepts, calculations, specifications, and technical documentation.
- Ensure designs meet all applicable regulatory, safety, and industry standards.
- Conduct and oversee design reviews, risk assessments (FMEA, HAZOP where applicable), and verification activities.
- Act as final technical authority for mechanical engineering queries.
Project & Delivery
Work collaboratively with project managers to define scope, deliverables, budgets, and timelines. Provide accurate technical input for bids, proposals, and cost estimations. Manage technical risk and ensure on-time, on-budget delivery of engineering outputs. Support manufacturing, procurement, and installation teams with technical guidance.
Client Engagement & Technical Leadership
This role combines hands-on technical authority with strong client engagement and team leadership. You will work directly with clients to understand their requirements and translate them into practical, high-quality engineering solutions. You’ll confidently present design concepts and technical strategies to senior stakeholders, providing expert input during audits, design reviews, and key project meetings.
Alongside this, you will lead and mentor mechanical engineers and designers, providing clear technical direction and governance to ensure best practice is consistently applied. You’ll play an active role in recruitment, performance development, and capability building within the team, helping shape its growth and standards. A key part of the role is fostering a collaborative, forward-thinking culture focused on continuous improvement and engineering excellence.
Innovation & Strategy
Drive adoption of new technologies, tools, and methodologies. Contribute to long-term engineering strategy and capability growth. Support development of design standards, templates, and reusable engineering solutions.
Required Qualifications & Experience
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering (or related discipline).
- Chartered Engineer status (e.g., CEng) or working toward chartership.
- Significant experience (typically 10+ years) in mechanical design within a relevant engineering sector (e.g., industrial systems, energy, automation, manufacturing, process, or special purpose machinery).
- Proven experience delivering complex mechanical systems from concept to commissioning.
- Strong proficiency in 3D CAD (e.g., SolidWorks, Inventor, Creo or similar).
- Strong analytical skills including hand calculations and use of engineering analysis tools.
- Experience producing and reviewing detailed technical documentation.
- Demonstrable experience in technical leadership and mentoring.
Working Arrangement
Predominantly remote working. Occasional travel to client sites, supplier facilities, and internal workshops (as required by project needs).
If you think this could be of interest to you or someone you know please do get in touch today for a confidential conversation.