Job Title: Senior Mechanical Design Engineer – Automation & Product Development
Location: Reading, Berkshire
Salary: Circa £70,000 + Benefits
Employment Type: Full-Time | Permanent
🚀 Are you a hands-on Senior Mechanical Design Engineer with a passion for automation, high-speed mechanisms, and building technology that makes a real-world impact? I'm working with an ambitious, fast-growing tech start-up in the sustainable agriculture sector that’s looking to scale their advanced production technology – and they need a Mechanical Engineer to help lead the charge.
This is a rare opportunity to be part of something meaningful, where you’ll design and develop precision automation systems that are transforming how we produce at scale – with direct applications across robotics, bio-tech, and sustainability.
🔧 What You’ll Be Doing:
* Own the mechanical design and development of key automation modules
* Design high-speed material transfer mechanisms for 24/7 operation
* Integrate mechanical systems with electronics and software teams for complete solutions
* Mentor junior engineers and contribute to a high-performance engineering culture
* Drive design-for-manufacture improvements and support process optimisation
* Work on innovative container handling and small object automation challenges
✅ What We're Looking For:
* A degree in Mechanical Engineering (or related field) with 5+ years of experience
* Expertise in automation, precision mechanisms, and product integration
* SolidWorks proficiency and a strong understanding of GD&T and manufacturing methods
* Experience with motors (stepper, servo), material handling, or pick-and-place systems
* Comfortable in fast-paced environments – adaptable, solution-oriented and hands-on
* Experience with DFM, 3D printing, rapid prototyping, and tight-tolerance design
💡 Bonus Points For:
* Background in systems for high-throughput industries (food, pharma, biotech, packaging)
* Knowledge of fluid handling: pumps, valves, spray nozzles
* Workshop and assembly experience; understanding of electronics/panel builds is a plus
* Experience working in start-ups, R&D labs, or hygiene/regulatory-controlled environments
Why Apply?
* Work on next-gen robotics & automation tech
* Small, collaborative, and mission-driven team
* Huge scope for ownership, innovation, and career growth
* Tackle real-world sustainability challenges using engineering
📍Location: Reading - easily commutable from Oxford, Basingstoke, Newbury, Swindon, West London
💰 Salary: Circa £70,000 + progression + meaningful impact
If you’re curious to hear more, I’d love to share the full details. Drop me a message or apply directly here with your CV.