Design Engineer - Refrigeration
Chelmsford area, Essex
up to £50,000 + excellent benefits
Our client is a global life sciences company designing advanced equipment for laboratories and research institutions worldwide. Due to continued growth, they are seeking a Design Engineer to support the development of ultra‑low temperature refrigeration systems for innovative new products.
This role offers hands‑on involvement in new product development within a fast‑paced, international business, with strong training and progression opportunities.
The Role
You will be responsible for the design, modelling, testing, and continuous improvement of ultra‑low temperature refrigeration systems, ensuring products meet customer, regulatory, and manufacturing requirements.
Key Responsibilities
Design and develop refrigeration systems using agile product development methods
Apply numerical calculations and mathematical modelling to predict system performance
Create and review refrigeration system and component specifications
Liaise with suppliers and manufacturing to ensure designs are practical, cost‑effective, and manufacturable
Produce and maintain technical documentation in line with ISO 9001 and ISO 13485
Support refrigeration testing, including planning, execution, and analysis
Identify and implement design improvements and product changes
Research emerging technologies and contribute to the refrigeration technology roadmap
Provide technical support for quality issues and customer complaints, including root cause analysis
Support manufacturing processes to ensure quality and safety standards
Skills & Experience
Degree in Mechanical Engineering
Strong background in thermodynamics and heat transfer
Experience in refrigeration system or product development
Track record in new product or technology development
Experience working within formal phase‑gate development processes
Knowledge of DFM, FMEA, and ISO 9001 design controls
Practical, hands‑on approach with strong problem‑solving skillsDesirable:
MSc/PhD in Heat & Mass Transfer, mathematical modelling, RefProp, Flownex, SolidWorks, agile methodologies, F‑Gas regulations, hydrocarbon refrigerants.
Benefits
Salary up to £50,000 with annual reviews
Monday-Friday, 8:00-4:30 (flexible working available)
25 days holiday + bank holidays (buy/sell up to 5 days)
Private medical insurance
Enhanced pension scheme
Free on‑site parking
Employee wellbeing services and social events
Ongoing training and clear career progressionCandidates requiring sponsorship now or in the future cannot be considered.
Contact Julia at Prime Appointments to discuss, or apply via the link