Job Description
We’re looking for an experienced DFM Engineer to join our team in further developing our advanced logistics UAS. This is a role within the Design Team that will lead the transition of new designs into production, while applying DFM/DFA principles throughout the design process.
The ideal candidate is equally comfortable in a design and manufacturing engineering environment — someone who can move designs from CAD to cost-effective, scalable production, while collaborating with relevant stakeholders. You will play a critical role in shaping products that are not only flight-ready, but factory-ready. This role is vital to our mission of creating a low cost, efficient, and robust UAS for logistics applications.
Key Responsibilities
Design:
* Lead the transition of new designs into production, being the main interface of the design team to internal and external manufacturing.
* Contribute to the mechanical design of structural and subsystem components using CAE/CAD (SolidWorks) or by guiding other Design Engineers.
Manufacturing Optimization:
* Apply DFM/DFA principles to refine designs, simplify assemblies, and minimize part count.
* Identify and drive cost-saving initiatives through design, material and process improvements.
Prototype and Production Support:
* Create and maintain manufacturing documentation, including technical drawings, work instructions, and BOMs.
* Support prototype builds and production runs, troubleshooting issues and implementing design refinements.
Supplier and Cross-Functional Collaboration:
* Work directly with external manufacturing partners and internal teams (manufacturing, supply chain, quality) to ensure production readiness.
* Work with internal teams to further develop/adopt quality management processes.
Continuous Improvement:
* Champion continuous improvement in design and manufacturing processes targeted at reducing cost, improving quality, and increasing manufacturing capacity.
* Stay up to date with latest manufacturing methods suited to the near and long-term business needs.
Qualifications
* Background: Degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
* Experience: 5+ years of experience in manufacturing engineering, mechanical design, or similar role, applying DFM principles in aerospace, UAV, automotive or relevant sector.
* Demonstrated ability to balance technical design with cost-effective production practices.
* A proactive, hands-on approach with excellent problem-solving and collaboration skills.
Skills:
* Engineering assembly drawings, build instructions
* Proficiency in CAD/SolidWorks desirable
* Good understanding of assembly and manufacturing processes: CNC, sheet metal, composites, etc., preferably as applied to lightweight structures
* Able to balance engineering decisions with real-world cost and production constraints
* Comfortable working across design, prototyping, and production environments
* Hands-on and detail-oriented, with a problem-solving mindset
Personal Qualities
* A self-starter with an inquiring mindset
* A team player who is results driven
* Excellent interpersonal and people skills
* Someone comfortable working in a fast-paced, demanding environment
Qualification Requirements
* Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace or equivalent
* Right to work within the UK
* Ability to pass MOD clearance