Automation Design Engineer
Role Overview
As a key member of our expanding Automation Engineering team, the Automation Design Engineer will sit at the intersection of applications engineering and detailed design. You will support the end-to-end lifecycle of bespoke automation solutions for manufacturing clients—from concept and specification to 3D design, simulation, and implementation.
This role is ideal for a highly skilled Design Engineer with experience in industrial tooling, automation systems, and mechanical integration. You will contribute to both pre-sales applications support and post-order design delivery.
Key Responsibilities
Applications Support
* Work with Sales and Applications Engineers to evaluate customer requirements and translate them into viable automation concepts.
* Generate technical proposals including solution concepts, layouts, cycle times, and risk assessments.
* Conduct site visits to capture key process inputs (e.g. torque, part tolerances, spatial constraints).
Design Engineering
* Own mechanical design of automation and workstation systems (tool holders, reaction arms, custom jigs/fixtures, semi-automated stations).
* Develop 3D CAD models (preferably SolidWorks or Autodesk Inventor) and detailed drawings for manufacture.
* Select and integrate components (motors, actuators, vision systems, HMIs, safety devices).
Collaboration & Project Delivery
* Work closely with electrical/control engineers and project managers to ensure integrated system delivery.
* Support build, test, and commissioning stages in-house and at customer sites.
* Maintain accurate BOMs and documentation for handover to service/support teams.
Required Skills & Experience
* Degree or equivalent in Mechanical or Mechatronics Engineering.
* 5+ years experience in design engineering, ideally with industrial automation or tooling.
* Strong CAD skills in SolidWorks, Inventor, or equivalent.
* Understanding of DFM, machine safety standards (PUWER, CE, UKCA).
* Familiarity with pneumatics, motion control, and operator interface systems.
* Experience working directly with customers and cross-functional teams.
Desirable Skills
* Exposure to robotic systems (collaborative or industrial).
* Knowledge of PLC systems and electrical integration (for collaboration purposes).
* Simulation experience for stress analysis or motion kinematics.
* Experience working in fast-paced, high-mix manufacturing or B2B environments.
Personal Attributes
* Customer-focused with strong problem-solving abilities.
* Confident communicator—able to liaise with stakeholders from shop floor to board level.
* Proactive, organised, and able to manage multiple design projects concurrently.
* Collaborative mindset, ready to support both application concepting and project delivery