Design Engineer - Gateshead
12 days ago
Gateshead
COMPANY DESCRIPTION, PROFILE AND SCOPE OF ROLE This is a high-impact opportunity for an experienced Design Engineer with deep expertise in SolidWorks and mechanical/fluid design to join a growing, independently branded UK manufacturing business backed by a global parent group. Operating within an established engineering team, you will drive products through the complete design lifecycle—taking concepts from initial R&D and prototype testing through to serial manufacture, while leading continuous product and process improvement projects across the existing portfolio. KEY DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES Lead 3D mechanical design and product development for both new product introductions (NPI) and existing product ranges. Create full production-ready data packages, including complex 3D CAD models, detailed engineering drawings, GD&T, and accurate Bills of Materials (BOMs). Build R&D prototypes, design test rigs, and execute physical testing protocols. Conduct material selection, stress/flow evaluations, and design for manufacture and assembly (DFMA). Work alongside component suppliers and manufacturing partners throughout the development lifecycle to resolve technical queries and optimize sourcing. Ensure designs comply with relevant industrial quality management systems (ISO 9001) and regulatory/product approval standards. Provide technical support to sales, production, suppliers, and external development partners. QUALIFICATIONS, EXPERIENCE, SKILLS AND ATTRIBUTES Essential: Education: Degree (BEng/BSc), HND/HNC, or equivalent in Mechanical Engineering, Product/Industrial Design, or a related discipline (proven practical experience equally valued). CAD Proficiency: Strong, demonstrable proficiency in SolidWorks for complex assemblies, sheet metal, and detailed drawing packages. Industry Domain: Proven track record in mechanical, electromechanical, or fluid/pressure handling equipment design (3–5+ years within a manufacturing environment). Manufacturing Knowledge: Sound understanding of material selection, metal fabrication, machining, and modern production processes. Execution & Ownership: Proactive project management skills with a drive to see products through to commercial manufacture smoothly. Highly Desirable: Direct experience in compressed air, pneumatic circuits, gas purification/separation, filtration, or pressure vessel design (e.g., PED compliance). Alternative acceptable backgrounds: Candidates with strong fluid dynamics, industrial hydraulics, HVAC/refrigeration circuits, process skids, or valve/manifold design experience are strongly encouraged to apply. * Experience with physical testing, prototype fabrication, or dynamic fluid/pressure testing environments. DETAILS OF PACKAGE Salary from £40,000 to £50,000 (Depending on experience) + PR Bonus (Up to 8%) + Flexible working around start and finish times (details negotiable) + Benefits (39 Hour week) 07:30 – 16:00 Mon – Thurs / 07:00 – 14:00 Fri