Company Profile
Location: Waterbeach, UK
Department: R&D – Production Engineering
Reports to: Production Engineering Manager
Type: Full-time, Permanent
Thermoteknix Systems Ltd, founded in 1982 and based in Cambridge, is a world leader in thermal imaging, night vision, and augmented reality systems. Our award-winning technologies are trusted by defence, security, and industrial customers in over 70 countries. With in-house R&D, cutting-edge innovation, and a global reputation for quality, we design and manufacture solutions that perform in the toughest environments.
About You
Thermoteknix is establishing a new Production Engineering team within R&D to transition products from development into robust, scalable manufacturing.
The Mechanical Production Engineer will play a role in ensuring mechanical aspects of new and existing products are optimised for manufacture, test, assembly, and long-term production support. This role covers production process development, fixture and jig design, documentation, and continuous improvement of manufacturing capability.
Key Responsibilities
New Product Introduction & Transfer to Manufacturing
* Support the structured transfer of products from R&D into engineering and manufacturing.
* Ensure mechanical designs are suitable for production through DFM/DFA reviews.
* Lead mechanical workstreams within NPI projects, ensuring readiness for build and scale.
* Collaborate with design engineers to finalise manufacturable mechanical solutions.
Production Engineering Development
* Design and develop mechanical assembly fixtures, test jigs, tooling, and support equipment.
* Define and document mechanical build procedures, assembly instructions, and production workflows.
* Establish repeatable and controlled manufacturing processes for mechanical sub-assemblies.
Continuous Improvement & Manufacturing Optimisation
* Drive improvements in manufacturing efficiency, quality, and repeatability for products already in production.
* Identify opportunities to streamline mechanical assembly processes and reduce build time.
* Support cost-reduction initiatives through design refinement and improved production methods.
* Implement engineering change solutions to enhance manufacturability and reliability.
Production Support & Issue Resolution
* Provide hands-on engineering support when mechanical issues arise in production or test.
* Perform root cause analysis and corrective actions for mechanical failures or assembly problems.
* Work closely with manufacturing teams to troubleshoot and resolve build challenges quickly.
* Support concession management, non-conformance investigations, and product quality improvements.
Documentation & Engineering Control
* Maintain clear and accurate mechanical production documentation, including:
o Work instructions
o Build and assembly procedures
o Tooling drawings
o Test fixture documentation
* Support configuration control and engineering change processes (ECN).
Cross-Functional Collaboration
* Act as the mechanical interface between R&D, Production, Quality, Supply Chain, and Operations.
* Support supplier engagement for mechanical components and manufacturability improvements.
* Contribute to the development of the new Production Engineering team’s standards and processes.
Required Skills & Experience
* Degree (or equivalent experience) in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline.
* Experience in a production engineering, manufacturing engineering, or mechanical design role.
* Strong understanding of mechanical manufacturing methods (machining, sheet metal, injection moulding, assemblies).
* Experience designing jigs, fixtures, tooling, or mechanical test equipment.
* Practical problem-solving ability in a production environment.
* Strong documentation skills and attention to detail.
* Ability to work cross-functionally in a fast-paced engineering environment.
Desirable Skills & Experience
* Experience supporting NPI from prototype through to volume manufacture.
* Knowledge of DFM/DFA principles and lean manufacturing practices.
* Experience in thermal imaging, electronics packaging, or ruggedised product design.
* Familiarity with CAD tools (e.g., SolidWorks or similar).
* Understanding of engineering change control and quality systems (ISO9001).
Personal Attributes
* Hands-on, proactive, and solution-focused mindset.
* Strong communication skills with engineering and production stakeholders.
* Comfortable working both on the shop floor and in design/development environments.
* Driven to improve processes and deliver manufacturing excellence.
* Adaptable and motivated to help shape a new team and function.
Why us?
* Opportunity to join and shape a newly formed Production Engineering team.
* A key role bridging cutting-edge R&D and real-world manufacturing.
* Collaborative environment working on advanced thermal imaging technologies.
* Career development and growth within a high-technology engineering organisation.
* Training and career development opportunities.
* Competitive salary and benefits package.