Mechanical and Electrical Designer - Automated Machine

Zeff; Bristol; Hybrid; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Part time

Job summary

A small manufacturing company in Bristol seeks a freelance Mechanical and Electrical Designer for developing bespoke automated machines. The role involves designing mechanical systems, ensuring durability and reliability, and supporting prototyping efforts. Strong CAD skills and experience with electromechanical systems are essential. This position offers a flexible hybrid schedule while primarily on-site. Join a team focused on sustainable innovation in manufacturing.

Qualifications

• Experience designing complex electromechanical systems.
• Ability to work on site in BS4 1ET.
• Comfortable working hands-on with physical systems.

Responsibilities

• Design mechanical systems and layouts for a complex electromechanical machine.
• Ensure designs consider durability, reliability, and maintenance.
• Support prototyping, testing, and on-site iteration.

Skills

Experience designing machines

Strong experience in mechanical and/or industrial design

Confident CAD skills (SolidWorks, Fusion 360)

Engineering-led mindset

Knowledge of sensors and PLCs

Job description

JOB TITLE:Freelance Mechanical and electrical Designer - Automated Machine

LOCATION: On-site, BS4 1ET (Bristol), some hybrid flexibility

CONTRACT: Freelance (6-12 months)

EMPLOYMENT: 3-5 days a week freelance

START: ASAP

To apply for this role, please send your CV with a covering letter outlining your relevant experience.

We’re looking for a freelance mechanical / industrial designer to work with us on the development of a bespoke automated machine. This is a practical, on-site role involving real hardware, prototyping and iterative design - not a remote-only position.

THE ROLE

You’ll be designing the mechanical architecture and internal systems of a compact, robust machine intended for public-facing use. The work spans early concept development through to detailed CAD and prototype refinement.

WHAT YOU’LL BE DOING

• Designing mechanical systems and layouts for a complex electromechanical machine
• Designing for real-world use: durability, reliability, maintenance and cost
• Working around sensors, weighing/measurement systems, and material handling mechanisms
• Supporting prototyping, testing and on-site iteration

WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR

• Experience designing machines, working with sensors, conveyors, PLCs, electronics, EPOS, software design, machine enclosures, safety and electrical certification compliance, UI etc
• Strong experience in mechanical and/or industrial design
• Confident CAD skills (SolidWorks, Fusion 360 or similar)
• A practical, engineering-led mindset — comfortable working hands-on with physical systems
• Able to work on site in BS4 1ET

ABOUT ZEFF

Zeff is a small but ambitious manufacturer of recycling products, driven by sustainability, ingenuity, perfection, and simplicity. In 2010, we had a simple idea: to create the world’s first recycling bin made from 100% post-consumer plastic. Today, our Ubins are used by hundreds of organisations across the UK and Europe, and we keep our footprint low by producing all our products within the UK.

Our customers range from universities and hospitals to retailers and private estates, including Mulberry, RSPB, Royal Borough of Greenwich, Heritage Fund, Harrogate Spring Water, WWF and the NHS. Based in Bristol, with a widening international base and new products in development, we have bold ambitions to help put an end to the world’s throw-away culture.

If you are motivated to work in a business that exists to do good, then get in touch today.