Mechanical Design Engineer
Permanent | Southend-on-Sea | £35,000–£40,000 (DOE)


An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Mechanical Design Engineer to join a dynamic Research & Development team based in Southend-on-Sea. This is a permanent, full-time role offering a competitive salary and the chance to contribute to innovative product development in a collaborative, design-led environment.


We are seeking a motivated mechanical design engineer with meticulous attention to detail, and strong communication skills. The successful candidate will play a key role in both new product development and the continuous improvement of existing designs.


The Role
You will contribute to mechanical and design engineering activities aligned with established design strategies and principles. Working across multiple projects, you’ll help research, develop, refine and implement innovative solutions from concept through to production.


This position offers the opportunity to influence future product concepts, contribute to long-term technical strategy, and support the full lifecycle of products from initial design to mass production and beyond.


Key Responsibilities
*Contribute to mechanical concept design for a range of products
*Research and develop new and existing manufacturing technologies
*Design machinery, jigs, and fixtures to support production processes
*Create and maintain detailed 3D models and engineering drawings using SolidWorks, including GD&T
*Transition legacy drawings into CAD format and maintain PDM systems
*Support the introduction of products into production, ensuring manufacturability and quality
*Conduct mechanical design reviews prior to mass production
*Plan and manage multiple projects, setting realistic timelines and milestones
*Communicate clearly with internal stakeholders on project progress and delivery
*Work closely with suppliers and subcontractors to source components and validate designs
*Participate in hands-on prototyping, testing, and refinement
*Improve existing designs through cost engineering and enhanced manufacturability
*Mentor and share knowledge with junior team members


Daily Activities
*3D modelling, assemblies, and detailed drawing creation with tolerancing
*Designing for machining, extrusion, injection moulding, sheet metal, stamping, and 3D printing
*Rapid prototyping and practical testing
*Component sourcing and supplier collaboration
*Ongoing design revisions and technical documentation updates


Requirements
*Natural understanding of mechanical design principles
*Strong sketching and technical communication skills
*Solid grasp of engineering fundamentals
*Meticulous attention to detail
*Problem-solving mindset with the ability to develop practical solutions
*Proficiency in SolidWorks (or similar 3D CAD software)
*Computer literate and organised
*Able to work independently and manage workload effectively


Working Hours & Benefits
*37.5 hours per week (8:30am – 5:00pm, Monday to Friday)
*Salary: £35,000–£40,000 depending on experience
*Annual discretionary profit-related bonus


This is an excellent opportunity for a passionate Mechanical Design Engineer looking to work in a hands-on, innovation-driven environment where attention to detail and quality engineering are highly valued.


If you are driven, creative, and eager to make a meaningful contribution to product development, we would love to hear from you.
How to Apply
To apply for this exclusive opportunity, please submit an up-to-date CV by clicking the Apply button, or contact me directly for a confidential discussion.
If you have not been contacted by A1 Personnel within two weeks of submitting your application, please assume that your CV has not been shortlisted on this occasion.
A1 Personnel is acting as a specialist recruitment consultancy in relation to this vacancy.