Principal Mechanical Design Engineer

Huddersfield, Kirklees Sapien Sapien are recruiting for Senior and Principal Mechanical Design Engineers to join our client’s engineering team in Huddersfield, working on mechanical design projects involving rotating machinery, gearboxes and power transmission systems within the Aerospace & Defence sector. We’re keen to hear from candidates at both Senior and Principal level, with the role and responsibilities depending on your experience. You’ll be involved in the design and development of mechanical components and assemblies, carrying out engineering calculations, producing CAD models and drawings, and resolving technical issues. For Principal-level candidates, there will also be opportunities to provide technical leadership, support other engineers and lead design improvements. Key Responsibilities * Design mechanical components, assemblies and subassemblies for rotating machinery and geared transmission systems. * Carry out engineering calculations, component sizing and material selection, including shaft and bearing analysis, bolted joints, couplings and lubrication systems. * Produce and check 3D CAD models, 2D manufacturing drawings, assembly drawings and BOMs, ideally using Solid Edge or a similar CAD package. * Apply Design for Manufacture principles to ensure designs are suitable for production. * Support design reviews and work with other engineering teams on design validation and analysis. * Investigate and resolve non-conformances, carrying out root cause analysis and identifying corrective actions. * Support engineering change control and produce technical documentation. For Principal-level candidates, the role will also involve: * Providing technical guidance and mentoring to other engineers. * Leading complex design projects and coordinating multidisciplinary teams. * Taking responsibility for technical decisions and engineering delivery. * Driving improvements in design quality and non-conformance processes. Essential Skills & Experience * Experience in mechanical design engineering, ideally within heavy engineering, rotating machinery or power transmission. * Good knowledge of gears, gearboxes, shafts, bearings and associated mechanical components. * Experience with engineering calculations, component sizing and structural design. * Proficiency in 3D CAD modelling and 2D manufacturing drawings, ideally using Solid Edge. * Understanding of GD&T and Design for Manufacture principles. * Knowledge of structural analysis and FEA/FEM tools, such as ANSYS Workbench. * Experience investigating technical issues and resolving non-conformances. * For Principal level roles, previous experience in technical leadership, mentoring engineers and leading complex engineering projects is also required. Qualifications * A degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline, or equivalent relevant experience. * Experience designing mechanical systems involving rotating machinery or geared transmission systems. * Knowledge of quality standards such as AS9100 and ISO 9001 would be beneficial. Requirements Due to security requirements, applicants must be sole UK nationals