Work location: Sligo, Ireland / St Ives, Cambridge, United Kingdom
Senior Mechanical Design Engineer
Role Overview
The Senior Mechanical Design Engineer plays a pivotal role in leading the development of high-quality, innovative, and cost-effective engineering solutions for the food processing sector. This hands-on position combines advanced design work with leadership responsibilities, including mentoring junior designers, guiding technical direction, and supporting management in developing the design department's strategic goals.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead the creation of detailed 3D models and assemblies in
SolidWorks
, producing accurate manufacturing drawings, Bills of Materials (BOMs), and supporting documentation.
* Establish and maintain design standards, processes, and best practices to ensure quality, consistency, and compliance with regulatory and company requirements.
* Conduct and approve design reviews, ensuring technical accuracy and manufacturability.
* Provide technical leadership, mentoring, and support to junior design engineers, promoting knowledge sharing and professional development.
* Collaborate with Project Engineers to ensure designs meet project specifications, timelines, and budget targets.
* Liaise with customers and suppliers to review concepts, obtain approvals, and resolve technical queries.
* Capture design modifications during fabrication, installation, and commissioning for continuous improvement and traceability.
* Identify and implement cost reduction and efficiency initiatives within product designs and manufacturing processes.
* Stay abreast of emerging technologies, materials, and design tools to drive innovation within the team.
* Support management in defining departmental objectives, KPIs, and long-term development strategies.
* Provide cross-functional technical support to manufacturing, quality, and installation teams.
* Conduct site visits as needed for project reviews, surveys, or technical support.
Qualifications & Experience
* Bachelor's degree (or equivalent qualification) in
Mechanical Engineering
or a related discipline.
* Minimum
10 years' design engineering experience
in a
manufacturing environment
.
* Proven background in
leading or mentoring design teams
and managing complex, bespoke projects.
* Proficiency in
SolidWorks 3D
and
AutoCAD 2D
.
* Strong understanding of
sheet metal design, fabrication techniques
, and
mechanical component specification
.
* Experience in the
food processing industry
or with
conveyor and automation systems
is highly advantageous.
* Demonstrated ability to deliver innovative, practical, and commercially viable engineering solutions.
Skills & Attributes
* Excellent organisational, planning, and problem-solving skills.
* Strong leadership and interpersonal abilities, with a collaborative and proactive approach.
* High attention to detail and a commitment to quality and "Right First Time" design principles.
* Commercial awareness and an understanding of cost implications in design decisions.
* Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
* Effective communicator across all levels of the organisation and with external stakeholders.
* Willingness to travel and work flexible hours, including occasional weekends, as required.
What We Offer
* Competitive salary and benefits package commensurate with experience.
* Opportunities for professional growth and leadership development within a forward-thinking, innovative company.