Principal mechanical engineer

Principal Mechanical Engineer

Location: Cambridge, UK - Hybrid (Office-Focused)

An opportunity has arisen for a Principal Mechanical Engineer to join a specialist product design and engineering consultancy operating within the medical technology and highly regulated product development sector.

The organisation delivers end-to-end engineering solutions for global clients, working across early-stage concept development, detailed mechanical design, prototyping, testing and design for manufacture. Projects range from single-use medical devices through to complex electromechanical systems, with a strong emphasis on practical engineering, rapid iteration and rigorous technical validation.

This is a highly collaborative and hands-on engineering environment where Principal Engineers play a key role in both technical delivery and project leadership. The culture is non-hierarchical, with engineers at all levels encouraged to contribute to technical direction, problem-solving and innovation.

The Principal Mechanical Engineer will act as a technical lead across multiple projects, combining deep engineering expertise with client-facing responsibility and delivery ownership. The role also provides a pathway into broader leadership responsibilities within a growing engineering team.

Main Responsibilities of the Principal Mechanical Engineer (Cambridge - Hybrid):

Lead the delivery of complex mechanical product development projects from concept through to prototyping and validation
Provide technical leadership across multidisciplinary engineering teams
Develop innovative mechanical design solutions for regulated medical and industrial applications
Produce and review detailed mechanical designs with a strong focus on design for manufacture and assembly
Build and test prototypes, including hands-on laboratory and workshop-based development work
Design and develop test rigs and experimental validation setups
Act as the primary technical interface for clients, presenting design concepts, progress updates and technical findings
Translate customer requirements into practical engineering solutions and project deliverables
Manage project scope, timelines and budgets across multiple concurrent programmes
Mentor and support the development of junior and mid-level engineers
Contribute to client engagement and support the development of new project opportunities through technical input

Requirements of the Principal Mechanical Engineer(Cambridge - Hybrid):

Significant mechanical engineering experience (typically 10+ years) in product development or consultancy environments
Strong track record of delivering mechanical engineering projects from concept to manufacture
Experience leading technical projects and multidisciplinary engineering teams
Strong client-facing capability, including presentations and technical discussions
Proven ability to manage project timelines, budgets and delivery expectations
Hands-on engineering capability with experience in prototyping and testing
Experience working within regulated industries such as medical devices, aerospace, defence or automotive
Strong engineering fundamentals with excellent problem-solving ability
Degree in Mechanical Engineering or related disciplineDesirable:

Experience within medical device or medical technology development
Exposure to SOLIDWORKS or similar CAD tools
Experience in consultancy or contract product development environments
Familiarity with design for manufacture and regulated product development processes

To apply for this Principal Mechanical Engineer role, please send your CV to Kishan Chandarana: (url removed)

(phone number removed)