Mechanical Design Manager

About the role

You will join a well‑known manufacturing company in South Essex that designs, builds and installs automated machinery for multiple industries. With a strong order book for the next 3‑6 years, the business is expanding and needs an experienced Mechanical Design Manager to lead a close‑knit team of design engineers.

Key responsibilities

• Drive efficiency, productivity and quality across the Design Department.
• Support enquiry‑stage discussions with customers, providing technical input.
• Manage design reviews with internal teams and oversee project lifecycles alongside project managers.
• Support drawing office activities such as enquiry drawings, site surveys and technical investigations.
• Set and monitor design team goals, track performance and ensure timely delivery.

Required profile

• Proven experience in a similar design/projects manager role.
• A recognised electrical or mechanical degree, ONC, City & Guilds, MBA/MS or comparable qualification.
• Strong knowledge of machining, sheet‑metal and fabrication processes.
• Experience managing end‑to‑end project lifecycles with an emphasis on design.
• Ability to interpret complex equipment assembly drawings and deliver high‑quality outputs.

Required skills

• Proficiency with Autodesk AutoCAD (2D).
• Proficiency with Autodesk Inventor (3D).
• Experience with Autodesk Vault or equivalent CAD systems such as SolidWorks.
• Practical knowledge of machining, sheet‑metal and fabrication processes.

What we offer

• Competitive salary range £55,000‑£65,000 per year, negotiable based on experience.
• Permanent contract with Monday‑Friday working pattern and flexible start times.
• Opportunity to lead a growing design team in a stable, expanding business.