Principal Mechanical Design Engineer

Caudwell Marine Limited; Coventry; Hybrid; GBP 75,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative engineering company in Coventry seeks a Principal Mechanical Design Engineer to lead the design and development of complex mechanical systems. This senior position requires over 15 years of experience and a Bachelor's in Mechanical Engineering. You will mentor engineers, oversee design documentation, and improve engineering processes. The role offers hybrid working arrangements, contributing to cutting-edge technology development.

Qualifications

• 15+ years of mechanical engineering experience, especially in senior roles.
• Proficiency in FEA, CFD, and gear design.
• Experience with design validation and manufacturing processes.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and development of complex mechanical systems.
• Oversee and approve design documentation.
• Mentor and develop junior engineers.
• Champion improvements in engineering processes.

Skills

Mechanical design expertise

Leadership

Advanced simulations tools

CAD proficiency

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Siemens NX

PLM systems

Job description

Caudwell Marine is an innovative start‑up engineering company, financially backed by John Caudwell, entrepreneur, business leader and philanthropist. We are developing a revolutionary patented outboard motor and Vessel Control System for launch in 2025.

As a growing and dynamic team, we are passionate about bringing this cutting‑edge technology to market. At Caudwell Marine, every team member plays a vital role in shaping the future of our product. With a collaborative and hands‑on approach, we foster an environment of mutual support, where each person’s expertise drives the success of our ambitious plan.

The Principal Mechanical Design Engineer is responsible for leading the design and development of complex mechanical systems across new and existing products. This senior role ensures high‑quality engineering through strong technical leadership, clear design standards, and effective collaboration. It also plays a key part in mentoring team members, improving design processes, and contributing to future product and technology planning.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide senior technical leadership in the design, development, and delivery of complex mechanical systems and sub‑systems across new and existing product platforms.
• Oversee and approve 3D CAD models, 2D drawings, and BOMs, ensuring all design documentation meets quality, performance, cost, and regulatory requirements.
• Lead critical design reviews and risk assessments, ensuring robust design governance and technical decision‑making across the engineering function.
• Define and validate engineering approaches through advanced calculations, simulations, and system‑level performance assessments.
• Mentor and develop senior and junior engineers, sharing technical knowledge and promoting best practices in design and development.
• Drive rigorous documentation of design activities, validation results, and risk mitigation strategies to ensure full product traceability.
• Champion the development and continuous improvement of internal design standards, engineering processes, and digital tools.
• Influence the direction of future product development and innovation, contributing to product roadmaps, R&D planning, and technology strategy.
• Represent the mechanical design function in business planning, executive reviews, and strategic initiatives.

Education & Experience

• Minimum Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or suitable equivalent
• 15+ years of mechanical engineering experience, with significant time in senior or lead design roles.
• Proficient in the use of advanced simulation tools including FEA, CFD, gear design, and life‑cycle analysis.
• Proven expertise in mechanical design and development, particularly in powertrain, drivetrain, hydraulics, and high‑complexity mechanical systems.
• Expert‑level CAD proficiency, Siemens NX preferred
• Experience with PLM systems (e.g., Teamcenter).
• Demonstrated experience in design validation, tolerance stack‑up, GD&T, and design for manufacture.
• Strong background in manufacturing processes and cost‑effective engineering design for volume production.

Personal Attributes

• Recognised technical authority with the credibility to lead and influence at all organisational levels.
• Inspirational mentor and coach; committed to developing others.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to execute at both tactical and operational levels.
• Makes decisions based on holistic business priorities, not just technical considerations.
• Comfortable in fast‑paced environments, managing ambiguity and prioritising effectively.
• Exceptional communication and presentation skills; capable of engaging senior stakeholders and cross‑functional teams.

Other

• Location: Coventry
• Working Hours & Hybrid Policy: The standard working hours for this role are Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. We offer a hybrid working arrangement, requiring three days in the office, including a mandatory in‑office day on Wednesdays, and two days working from home. Flexibility may be required based on business needs.

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