Principal Mechanical Engineer
1 day ago
Cambridge
Socode are working with a global high-tech engineering business developing complex precision systems used in advanced industrial applications. As their next-generation products move through critical development phases, they’re now looking to add a Principal Mechanical Engineer to their R&D team. This is a senior, hands-on role where you’ll take ownership of major mechanical systems on complex electromechanical products — not just small sub-assemblies. What will you be doing? • Leading mechanical development on new product programmes from technical specification through to production, • Defining mechanical requirements around performance, reliability, cost, and serviceability, • Producing detailed CAD, drawings, tolerances, and full bills of materials, • Leading the build, integration, and testing of complex mechanical and electromechanical sub-systems, • Selecting and validating cost-effective manufacturing methods and mitigating technical risks, • Working closely with suppliers to source and manufacture components, • Supporting product integration, system testing, and early-life issue resolution, • Ensuring designs meet relevant standards and internal quality requirements, • Contributing to technical documentation, training material, and customer support, • A Mechanical Engineering degree (or closely related discipline), • Extensive experience delivering products in high-technology R&D and manufacturing settings, • Advanced 3D CAD capability in SolidWorks with working knowledge of simulation and analysis, • A track record of owning products through the full development cycle, from early concept to production support, • Strong practical understanding of a wide range of manufacturing methods, including CNC machining, sheet metal, moulded parts, castings, and additive methods, • Solid background in designing and packaging electromechanical systems, • Proven experience with motion and drive systems such as mechanisms, motors, linear rails, and bearings, • Good working knowledge of materials selection, tolerancing, and mechanical reliability, • Hands-on experience designing jigs, fixtures, and supporting manufacturing processes, • A structured, analytical engineer who is comfortable with risk assessment and design reviews, • Someone who can lead technically while remaining hands-on with detailed design Nice to have: • Previous exposure to fluid-based precision systems, • Understanding of pneumatics, fluid handling, or safe machinery design