About Us
Established in 1983, PCM is a third-generation, family-owned engineering business with a
deep-rooted passion for precision measurement. We work at the forefront of load cell manufacture,
strain gauge installation, and force calibration, combining decades of experience with the latest
technologies to deliver solutions that are genuinely best in class on a global scale.
Over more than 40 years, we have continually reinvested in our people, facilities, and
capabilities. This sustained commitment has equipped us with the expertise and infrastructure
required to solve some of the most complex, unique, and demanding measurement challenges across a
wide range of engineering
sectors.
Our reputation is built on uncompromising quality, technical rigour, and absolute confidence in
traceability. Underpinned by our ISO 9001 and UKAS ISO/IEC 17025:2017 accreditations, our skilled
team is trusted by industry leaders worldwide to support their most critical operations, where
accuracy and reliability are non-negotiable.
Following a recent rebrand, PCM is now entering an exciting phase of growth. This expansion forms
part of our long-term ambition to become the undisputed global leader in load measurement, and we
are actively strengthening our technical team to support that journey.
About The Role
As a Mechanical Engineer within PCM’s highly regarded technical team, you will play a key role in the development and evolution of our new, market-leading standard product range. In addition to supporting day-to-day engineering activities such as mathematical calculations, CAD design and technical documentation, this role has a strong emphasis on analytical engineering and cutting-edge product development.
You will work closely with our machining, strain gauging and calibration teams to translate customer requirements and market needs into robust, high-performance mechanical designs. The role will suit an engineer who enjoys combining theoretical understanding with practical application - using analysis, simulation, and test data to continuously refine and improve product performance. Your work will directly influence the competitiveness, manufacturability, and long-term reliability of PCM’s next-generation load cell products.
Key Responsibilities
* Prepare, amend, and maintain detailed CAD models and engineering drawings for load cells, calibration fixtures, and associated assemblies.
* Produce and manage Bills of Materials (BOMs), specifications, and controlled technical documentation in support of machining, strain gauging and calibration activities.
* Design and 3D print production tooling to support efficient, repeatable manufacture.
* Play a central role in the development of PCM’s standard load cell product range, from concept through to validated design.
* Conduct market and competitor research to help define product requirements, performance targets, and design constraints.
* Perform theoretical analysis to support load path design, stress distribution, stiffness, and fatigue performance.
* Carry out finite element analysis (FEA) to assess stress, strain, deflection, and failure modes, using results to guide and refine designs.
* Develop, validate and maintain coded mechanical design calculators to support rapid, consistent product development.
* Continuously analyse calibration and performance test data to identify opportunities for improvement.
* Support design reviews, root cause investigations, and continuous improvement activities.
* Author technical reports, whitepapers and application notes.
* Liaise with suppliers and manufacturing partners to support cost-effective production.
* Help maintain and evolve internal software tools and automated processes using MATLAB and VBA.
* Contribute to the long-term technical roadmap for PCM’s load cell product portfolio.
* Develop new skills within a growing business, with opportunities to progress into a more advanced technical role while working with state-of-the-art equipment.
Key Skills
* Strong mechanical engineering fundamentals, with the ability to apply theory to real-world design and measurement challenges.
* Proficient in 3D CAD modelling and the production of clear, controlled engineering drawings.
* Analytical mindset with experience in theoretical calculations and finite element analysis (FEA).
* Ability to correlate analytical and simulated results with physical test data, identifying discrepancies and driving design improvements as a result.
* Practical understanding of strain, stress, and load paths, with the ability to recommend appropriate strain gauge quantity, size, type, and placement to validate FEA models.
* Experience developing or using engineering calculators, spreadsheets, or design tools to support consistent and repeatable product development.
* A proactive, can-do attitude, able to see complex tasks through to completion.
* Strong problem-solving skills with a methodical, data-driven approach to engineering decisions.
* Clear and professional communication skills, able to explain complex technical concepts to colleagues, customers, and suppliers.
* High attention to detail with a commitment to quality, traceability, and engineering best practice.
* Able to manage multiple tasks and priorities effectively, maintaining accuracy when working to tight deadlines.
* Enjoys working in a team environment, taking ownership of work that has a direct impact on business growth.
Required Qualifications & Experience
* A degree, HNC/HND, or equivalent qualification in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related discipline.
* Practical experience in an engineering environment involving product design, analysis, or development.
* Proficiency in 3D CAD modelling and the production of detailed engineering drawings.
* A sound understanding of mechanical design principles, including stress, strain, stiffness, and fatigue.
* Experience performing or interpreting finite element analysis (FEA) to support mechanical design decisions.
* Ability to apply theoretical analysis and engineering calculations to real-world components and assemblies.
* Experience producing and maintaining technical documentation such as specifications, Bills of Materials (BOMs), and work instructions.
* Confidence working with test or performance data to validate designs and refine engineering solutions.
* Familiarity with quality-controlled engineering environments, or a willingness to work within ISO 9001 and UKAS ISO/IEC 17025 accredited systems.
* Good written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to engage professionally at all levels.
* Strong organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities effectively.
* Proficiency in standard engineering software tools and Microsoft Office.
* Good knowledge of English.
* Residence and right to work in the UK.
Desired Qualifications & Experience
* Experience with strain gauges, load cells, force measurement, or calibration activities.
* Exposure to correlating FEA with physical strain gauge measurements.
* Experience with MATLAB, VBA, or other scripting / automation tools.
* An interest in developing technical content such as whitepapers or application notes.
Employee Benefits
* Competitive salary
* Personal development
* Training and certifications
* Professional registration support
* Pension scheme
* On-site parking
* Retail discounts
* 37.5 Hour Working Week: Monday-Thursday: 8:30-17:00, Friday: 8:30-14:30.