Mechanical Design Engineer (Automation)

About the role

We are looking for a Mechanical Design Engineer with a focus on automation to join our client’s engineering team in Milton Keynes. The role involves taking bespoke automated machinery and robotic systems from concept through to manufacture, ensuring high‑quality, reliable solutions.

Key responsibilities

• Design bespoke automated machinery, robotic systems and special‑purpose equipment using SolidWorks.
• Create detailed 3D models, manufacturing drawings and assembly documentation.
• Develop innovative mechanical solutions from concept to production.
• Collaborate with electrical, controls, manufacturing and project engineering teams.
• Perform design calculations, tolerance analysis and component selection.
• Support prototype builds, testing, commissioning and design validation.
• Modify and improve existing machinery to enhance performance and reliability.
• Liaise with suppliers and customers on technical specifications.
• Ensure compliance with engineering standards, quality and health & safety regulations.
• Manage multiple design projects, meeting deadlines and budgets.

Required profile

• Degree or HNC/HND in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline.
• Minimum 6 years’ experience in mechanical design engineering.
• Proven experience designing automation machinery, robotic systems or special‑purpose equipment.
• Strong proficiency in SolidWorks with a track record of producing manufacturing drawings.
• Experience taking designs from concept through to manufacture and assembly.
• Good knowledge of machining, fabrication and assembly processes.
• Experience selecting components such as bearings, actuators, gearboxes, motors and pneumatics.
• Understanding of Design for Manufacture (DFM) principles.

Required skills

• SolidWorks
• Mechanical design
• Automation machinery design
• Robotics systems design
• Manufacturing drawing creation
• Design calculations
• Tolerance analysis
• Component selection (bearings, actuators, gearboxes, motors, pneumatics)
• Knowledge of machining, fabrication and assembly processes
• Design for Manufacture (DFM)

What we offer

• Competitive salary £40,000‑£50,000 per year.
• Permanent full‑time role, Monday‑to‑Friday.
• Opportunity to work on cutting‑edge automation projects.