Mechanical Design Engineer - Contract (12 Months) | Bedfordshire | Inside IR35
Looking to take on complex engineering challenges that genuinely push your technical capability? We're seeking experienced Mechanical Design Engineers to join a high integrity defence engineering programme focused on advanced platform integration and mission-critical systems.
This is an opportunity to work on cutting-edge mechanical sub-systems, complex mechanisms, and high reliability components designed for demanding military environments.

Location

Ampthill, Bedfordshire
On-site presence required Mondays and Tuesdays from September 2025

Contract Details

Duration: 12 months
Hours: 37.5 per week
Schedule: 4-day week (Mon-Thurs) with flexible working
Rate: Competitive per hour (inside IR35, inclusive of employer deductions)
Clearance: BPSS to start; SC required later
Eligibility: Sole UK nationals only (due to programme requirements)

Role Overview

As a Mechanical Design Engineer, you'll be responsible for the full lifecycle of mechanical design activities - from concept development and prototyping through to design proving, documentation, and supporting calculations.
You'll collaborate with multidisciplinary engineering teams to develop robust, manufacturable solutions that meet stringent performance, safety, and legislative requirements.

Key Responsibilities

Develop innovative, compliant design solutions from requirements and design briefs
Create concept and detailed designs using CREO Parametric CAD
Produce supporting calculations, analysis, and justification for design decisions
Work with SMEs, users, and design authorities to refine concepts
Collaborate with design engineers to deliver integrated sub-system solutions
Support CAD engineers in producing drawings and data packs
Present design review materials to senior engineering stakeholders
Assist in prototype build, testing, and design proving
Ensure adherence to industry standards, safety requirements, and programme constraints

Required Skills & Experience

Proven experience within the defence industry, particularly with Armoured Fighting Vehicles or related systems (e.g., survivability, lethality, structures, comms, sensors)
Strong background in mechanical sub-system and component design
Expert-level proficiency with CREO and experience using Windchill
Extensive knowledge of complex mechanism design
Ability to perform structural and kinematic calculations
Track record of delivering designs for harsh or demanding environments
High attention to detail and strong documentation skills
Effective planning, coordination, and problem solving abilities

Ideal Candidate Profile

You thrive in technically demanding environments, enjoy solving complex mechanical challenges, and bring a blend of creativity, rigour, and practical engineering insight. You're comfortable working across the full design lifecycle and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to deliver high integrity solutions.

If you're a seasoned Mechanical Design Engineer with defence experience and a passion for developing robust, high?performance mechanical systems, this contract offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a major UK defence programme.
Ready to take the next step in your engineering career? Let's talk