Mechanical Design Engineer £35,000 to £50,000 Sandwich, Kent Permanent Security Requirements Due to the nature of the work, candidates must be eligible to obtain Security Clearance to SC level. Your New Role This is an opportunity to join a small, collaborative engineering team responsible for the design, development and ongoing support of both new and existing precision engineered products. The role is hands on and design focused, covering 3D CAD modelling, detailed mechanical design, technical documentation and close collaboration with production, test and wider engineering teams across the full product lifecycle. Your Responsibilities * Contribute to new product design activity as part of the mechanical engineering team under the direction of a Mechanical Team Leader * Create and maintain 3D CAD models, assemblies and detailed manufacturing drawings using SolidWorks in line with BS8888 and internal standards * Take ownership of assigned design tasks and work packages, ensuring timescales are met and technical decisions are documented and approved * Work closely with colleagues across engineering disciplines on shared tasks and cross functional projects * Produce and maintain engineering documentation including specifications, assembly instructions, manuals, illustrations, costings and test procedures * Ensure all design and engineering activity aligns with the company's integrated management system * Support continuous improvement initiatives to improve efficiency, quality and engineering best practice * Assist with prototype builds, testing and validation activities as required * Support customer and supplier visits when needed Your Background * Degree qualified in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent education/experience * Strong experience in detailed mechanical product design * Exposure to simulation techniques such as FEA, thermal or vibration analysis * Experience working in a precision engineering or manufacturing environment is advantageous * Background designing complex mechanical mechanisms is beneficial * Experience within defence or similarly regulated engineering sectors is desirable Technical Knowledge * Good understanding of manufacturing processes including machining, castings and mouldings * Sound knowledge of DFM and DFA principles * Proven experience using SolidWorks within a manufacturing environment Skills and Attributes * Self motivated, organised and confident working on technical design tasks * Practical and analytical problem solver with strong attention to detail * Able to plan and manage own workload while supporting wider team objectives * Comfortable taking responsibility for design work packages when required * Results focused with awareness of cost, schedule and engineering constraints * Able to translate conceptual requirements into robust engineering solutions * Strong communication and interpersonal skills * Full UK driving licence Benefits * Nine day fortnight with every other Friday off * Competitive salary and profit sharing scheme * Stakeholder pension * Death in service benefit * Employee engagement and recognition initiatives