Junior Mechanical Engineer

Junior Mechanical Engineer
A pioneering technology company working at the forefront of advanced physics and next-generation hardware is expanding its UK R&D capability. The organisation develops cutting-edge systems and devices for high-performance computing, sensing and instrumentation applications, collaborating with a global network of technical partners. Due to ongoing growth, they are seeking a Junior/Graduate Mechanical Engineer to join their multidisciplinary engineering group.
About the Role
In this position you’ll work alongside scientists, physicists, and senior engineers to translate experimental concepts into engineered solutions. It’s a hands-on role covering the full development lifecycle - from requirements capture and CAD modelling through prototyping, assembly and test.
You’ll support a wide range of R&D activities within a highly technical environment, gaining exposure to advanced optical, vacuum, mechanical, and electronic systems. The team encourages proactive ownership and offers the chance to design, build, and validate real hardware.
Hybrid working is available, with time split between an R&D office and specialist laboratory facilities.
Key Responsibilities

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  Capture and interpret mechanical design requirements for precision optical and vacuum systems
  
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  Produce CAD models, technical drawings, and documentation packages to industry standards
  
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  Apply rapid prototyping and engineering analysis to guide design decisions
  
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  Support assembly of enclosures, jigs, fixtures and prototype systems using basic workshop tools and off-the-shelf components
  
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  Work with production teams to build early units and feed back DfM/DfA improvements
  
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  Communicate effectively with project leads, colleagues and suppliers
  
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  Assist with component selection, procurement and supplier engagement
  

Requirements

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  Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Optical Engineering, Physics or similar
  
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  Experience using 3D CAD software (SolidWorks preferred)
  
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  Strong written and verbal communication skills
  
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  Comfortable working in a collaborative, cross-functional technical environment
  
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  Enthusiasm for solving difficult engineering problems in a scientific setting
  
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  Competent with Microsoft Office tools
  

Desirable Skills

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  ~2 years' industry experience in a relevant engineering role
  
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  Exposure to free-space or fibre optical systems, lasers or photonics
  
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  Experience designing for harsh environments (shock, vibration, temperature, humidity)
  
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  Familiarity with magnetic shielding and simulation
  
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  Experience in ISO-certified manufacturing environments using PDM/PLM/ERP systems
  

What’s Offered

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  Competitive salary
  
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  Unlimited paid time off
  
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  10% employer pension contribution (no employee contribution required)
  
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  Stock incentive scheme
  
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  Private healthcare (after probation)
  
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  Cycle-to-work and technology purchase schemes
  
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  Flexible hybrid working
  
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  Opportunities to work on highly novel and technically challenging hardware