Mechanical Design Engineer – Contract (Outside IR35) Location: Lancashire / Greater Manchester Duration: Initial 6-month contract (with potential extension) Hours: 37 hours per week over 4 days (Monday to Thursday, Friday off) Work Arrangement: Office-based only (no hybrid or remote working)
We are supporting our client in Lancashire / Greater Manchester with the appointment of a Mechanical Design Engineer on a temporary contract basis. This role operates outside IR35, so Limited Company contractors are welcome.
The position is to start as soon as possible, offering an initial term of around six months, with the potential for extension. This is a full-time role condensed into a four-day week, giving you Fridays free. Please note: this is strictly an on-site position with no scope for remote or hybrid work.
Role Overview The successful candidate will produce mechanical designs using Autodesk Inventor, including 3D models, general arrangement drawings, and detailed manufacturing outputs (assembly drawings, fabrication drawings, bills of materials, and as-built drawings), in line with company procedures and customer specifications.
Applicants must have relevant experience with Autodesk Inventor and should be eligible to obtain SC-level security clearance (to be arranged by the client).
The client welcomes applications from candidates with varying levels of experience in sheet metal design and use of Inventor. Contract rates are negotiable and will be discussed with suitable applicants.
Key Responsibilities:
- Develop designs compliant with product assurance requirements, considering the entire product lifecycle (material constraints, manufacturability, installability, and operability).
- Eliminate health and safety risks through design in line with CDM regulations and prepare Designer’s Risk Assessments with clear mitigation measures.
- Create accurate 3D models and 2D drawings in Autodesk Inventor and AutoCAD, meeting BS 8888 standards.
- Ensure all self-prepared drawings, models, and documents are correct before submission for design checking.
- Collaborate closely with analysis engineers to ensure designs align with theoretical analysis and update models/drawings accordingly.
- Understand build sequences and ensure designs reflect practical production and assembly considerations.
- Participate in design and manufacturability reviews, communicate design intent, and drive continuous improvement within the team.
- Support R&D activities and contribute innovative design solutions for bespoke projects.
- Liaise with customers and the wider project team as required.
- Maintain full compliance with company ISO 9001 procedures.
- Meet project deadlines and ensure timely completion of individual and departmental objectives.
- Carry out any additional duties appropriate to the role as required.
Key Requirements:
- Essential:
- Either a minimum HND in Engineering with at least 5 years’ experience in industrial sheet/steel fabrications, OR a Bachelor’s degree (BEng Hons) in Engineering (preferably Mechanical) with a minimum of 3 years’ relevant experience.
- Proficient use of Autodesk Inventor, AutoCAD, and Autodesk Vault.
- Good understanding of steel manufacturing techniques (e.g. press brake), load paths, failure modes, and steel component limits.
- Sound working knowledge of BS 8888 for engineering drawings.
- Ability to prepare clear Designer’s Risk Assessments.
- Flexible approach with willingness to work overtime if required.
- Excellent communication skills with both internal and external stakeholders.
- Desirable:
- Awareness of door performance testing standards.
- Understanding of drive and control system principles.
- Knowledge of welding techniques and limitations.
- Familiarity with tolerance stacking and practical tolerancing.
- Ability to programme templates using iLogic/VB.
- Existing SC security clearance (or ability to obtain it).
How to Apply: If you are interested, please send your up-to-date CV, together with details of your current situation and availability.