Lead Mechanical Engineer – Automation Systems Location: Strood / Rochester, Kent | Type: Full Time, 40 hrs/week | Hours: 08:00–16:30, Monday–Friday | Salary: £42,000–£50,000 DOE Our client is a leading UK-based industrial robot integrator and automation systems supplier, providing innovative automation solutions across all sectors of manufacturing. They are seeking an experienced Mechanical Design Engineer to join their team and play a key role in designing and manufacturing turnkey automation solutions. This is an office-based role, working closely with the internal engineering team. What You’ll Do Develop mechanical concepts and detailed designs for robotic automation equipment using 3D CAD (Autodesk Inventor) Perform design calculations, verification tasks, and manage risk assessments Collaborate with customers, lead design review meetings, and manage project documentation, including CE/UKCA compliance Specify, source, and cost of bought-in components Oversee subcontractors and support the build, commissioning, and testing stages Work closely with electrical and control system teams throughout projects Mentor junior engineers and support continuous design improvements Attend internal project updates and ensure deadlines are met Travel to UK-based site surveys and customer meetings as required What Our Client is Looking For Essential: Mechanical Engineering degree (B.Sc. or higher) or equivalent industry experience Proven mechanical design engineering experience Strong 3D CAD skills, preferably Autodesk Inventor Understanding manufacturing processes: CNC milling, welding, fabrication, and assembly Knowledge of geometric tolerances and British technical/legislative standards Experience with design calculations, risk assessments, and CE/UKCA documentation Confident with pneumatic circuit design Strong communication and project management skills Ability to work independently and as part of a team Desirable / Beneficial: Mentoring experience for junior engineers Familiarity with robotic automation and bespoke end-of-arm tooling Knowledge of Lean, Six Sigma, or 5S principles Experience with ABB Robot Studio for simulations and reach tests Proficiency in Microsoft Office, including Gantt chart creation What We Offer Salary: £42,000–£50,000 DOE, with paid overtime (1.25x weekdays, 1.5x Saturdays, 2x Sundays) Annual discretionary bonus scheme Up to 25 days holiday plus bank holidays Free on-site parking Office-based role with convenient train access (Rochester station within walking distance) Opportunity to grow with a forward-thinking robotics integration company What’s next? It’s easy! Click “APPLY” now! We can’t wait to hear from you! Your data will be handled in line with GDPR