Senior Mechanical Design Engineer

We are seeking a Senior Design Engineer to join our Mechanical Design Team in the Engineering Department at NPL. In this pivotal role, you will contribute to enhancing our capabilities and advancing our research. This hybrid position offers flexibility, with approximately 2-3 days per week spent on-site in Teddington and 2-3 days working remotely. We value your work-life balance and are open to discussing flexible or part-time working arrangements to suit your needs.

As a Senior Design Engineer, your responsibilities will include specifying, designing, and drafting a wide range of projects—ranging from simple individual parts to complex mechanical systems. You will work across various physics disciplines, collaborating with a team of professionals from diverse backgrounds and perspectives, and celebrating the unique contributions of each team member.

We believe that diversity and unique perspectives are key to the success of our engineering projects. For this role, we particularly encourage applications from candidates underrepresented in STEM disciplines, in particular women, disabled, black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates, as well as the Armed Forces service leavers looking to transition into civilian workforce.

Experience and skills you can bring to the role: 

• Mechanical Engineering
• Knowledge of precision engineering
• Demonstrable engineering design experience with a specialism in designing precision mechanical equipment and machinery.
• Attention to Detail, focus on the finer aspects of design to ensure high-quality and accurate outputs.
• 3D CAD (computer aided design) Solidworks
• Ability to create engineering drawings and GPS ISO to BS8888
• Knowledge of physical sciences with the ability to select appropriate materials and perform mechanical calculations.
• Experience with cost-effective design practices, supply chain considerations, and optimizing designs for manufacturing (DFM) or assembly (DFA).
• Knowledge of Finite Element Analysis (FEA)
• Good problem-solving ability
• A detailed understanding of the manufacturing process, particularly useful would be bespoke, precision components
• An understanding of ISO 9001 standard
• Professionally qualified to at least HND in mechanical engineering
• Good interpersonal skills

We also welcome the following skills and experience:

• 3D CAD (computer aided design) CATIA
• Instrument Design Experience
• Understanding of other engineering disciplines (e.g., electrical or software) and how they interface with mechanical systems.
• Experience of lead teams and mentor junior engineers.
• Experience in managing projects from concept through to completion, including scheduling, budgeting, and coordinating teams and resources effectively.

If it sounds like you would be a good fit, we look forward to hearing from you. In return for your expertise, inclusive approach, and commitment, we will provide an attractive salary + benefits package and the chance to join a passionate and welcoming team.

We actively recruit citizens of all backgrounds, but the nature of our work in specific departments means that nationality, residency and security requirements can be more tightly defined than others. You will be asked about this throughout the recruitment process. To work at NPL, you will need to obtain BPSS security clearance.

Please note:  Applications will be reviewed, and interviews conducted throughout the duration of this advert therefore we may at any time bring the closing date forward.  We encourage all interested applicants to apply as soon as practical.

The National Physical Laboratory (NPL) is a world-leading centre of excellence that provides cutting-edge measurement science, engineering and technology to underpin prosperity and quality of life in the UK. Find out more about what it is like working here - The measure of us - Overview

NPL and DSIT have strong commitments to diversity and equality of opportunity, and welcome applications from candidates irrespective of their background, gender, race, sexual orientation, religion, or age, providing they meet the required criteria. Applications from women, disabled and black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates in particular are encouraged. All disabled candidates (as defined by the Equality Act 2010) who satisfy the minimum criteria for the role will be guaranteed an interview under the Disability Confident Scheme. 

At NPL, we believe our success is a result of the diversity and talent of our people. We strive to nurture and respect individuals to ensure everyone feels valued by treating everyone on the basis of their own individual merits and abilities regardless of their own or perceived identity, as part of our commitment to diversity & inclusion, we ensure we’re creating an environment where all our colleagues feel supported and welcome. More about this on our Diversity & Inclusion page.

We are committed to the health and well-being of our employees. Flexible working and social activities are embedded in our culture to create a positive work-life balance, along with a broad range of rewards, benefits and recognition. Our values are at the heart of what we do, and they shape the way we interact, develop our people and celebrate success. To ensure everyone has an equal chance, we’re always willing to make reasonable adjustments to the recruitment process. If you would like to discuss, please contact us.