Job Description

Principal Mechanical Engineer

Warrington (Hybrid - 3 Days On Site)

£56-61 per hour | Inside IR35

Are you an experienced Principal Mechanical Engineer looking to play a key role on one of the UK's most complex engineering programmes?

We're seeking an innovative engineer to join a specialist design team supporting the development of bespoke tooling and equipment for critical plant operations. This is an opportunity to lead technical delivery from concept through to deployment while managing a small team of engineers and designers.

The Opportunity

Working within a multidisciplinary environment, you'll be responsible for driving the development of specialist mechanical tools that support plant operations and retrieval activities. You'll oversee projects from initial requirements capture through concept design, trials, manufacture and final handover to operational teams.

This is a highly collaborative role, working closely with innovation teams, manufacturing partners and site stakeholders to deliver practical engineering solutions.

Key Responsibilities

Lead the design and development of bespoke mechanical tooling

Manage a team of engineers and designers throughout the project lifecycle

Translate operational requirements into practical engineering solutions

Oversee concept development, testing, manufacture and deployment

Coordinate with manufacturing, innovation and operational teams

Act as the technical focal point from initial request through to final delivery

Produce and review engineering design packages for manufacture and installationWhat We're Looking For

10+ years' experience in mechanical engineering

Proven experience leading complex engineering or design projects

Strong understanding of CDM regulations and engineering standards

Experience producing design packages including drawings, method statements and risk assessments

HNC/HND or Degree in Mechanical or Engineering discipline

Excellent stakeholder management and leadership skillsDesirable

Experience within nuclear, decommissioning or other highly regulated environments

Knowledge of legacy facilities, hazardous materials or contaminated environmentsWhat's On Offer

£56-61 per hour

Inside IR35

Hybrid working - 3 days per week in Warrington

Long-term programme supporting nationally significant infrastructure

Opportunity to lead innovative engineering solutions from concept to delivery

If you're a technically strong Principal Mechanical Engineer who enjoys solving complex engineering challenges and leading multidisciplinary teams, we'd love to hear from you