Principal Research Engineer

Waters Corporation; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading global analytical instruments firm is seeking a Principal Research Engineer to lead mechanical design efforts on next-generation mass spectrometry platforms. The role involves collaborating with scientists, developing prototypes, and contributing to innovative instrumentation in a high-performance team. Relevant experience in mechanical design and strong CAD skills are essential. The position offers flexible work arrangements and competitive benefits.

Benefits

25 days holidays

Attractive employer pension contribution

Private medical and dental cover

Qualifications

• Experience in mass spectrometry or vacuum systems.
• Strong understanding of thermal and structural design.
• Proven ability to work in a fast-paced R&D environment.

Responsibilities

• Own the mechanical architecture of research mass spectrometers.
• Develop high-precision assemblies.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams.

Skills

Precision mechanical design

3D CAD using SolidWorks

Hands-on prototyping

Excellent communication

Rapid prototyping

Education

M.S. in Engineering or related field

B.S. with relevant experience

PhD (is a plus)

Tools

SolidWorks

Unigraphics (NX)

Job description

Principal Research Engineer – Waters Corporation

Join our Global Research Group to lead mechanical design efforts on next-generation mass spectrometry (MS) platforms. In this senior‑level role, you will collaborate closely with Research Fellows and leading scientists to explore novel MS architecture, drive subsystem innovations, and build high‑fidelity prototypes in a research‑driven environment. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to the foundational design of analytical instrumentation at the intersection of mechanics, vacuum science, thermal management, and precision manufacturing.

Why Join Us?

You’ll be part of a high‑performance team shaping the future of scientific instrumentation. With access to world‑class talent, research facilities, and global collaborators, you’ll help shape the future of analytical instrumentation by building novel hardware that pushes boundaries in sensitivity, robustness, and performance. This is a rare opportunity to contribute to foundational MS design that will impact diagnostics, therapeutics, and environmental science worldwide. We are committed to building a diverse team and fostering an inclusive workplace culture.

Responsibilities

• Own the mechanical architecture of research mass spectrometers and Liquid Chromatography, from concept to prototype.
• Develop high‑precision assemblies including ion optics, vacuum chambers, RF components, thermal, and mechanical interfaces.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams including electrical engineers, physicists, chemists, and software developers.
• Rapidly iterate designs using CAD, simulations (FEA/CFD), and hands‑on prototyping.
• Interface with Research Fellows and principal scientists to evaluate novel concepts and develop design rules for future commercialization.
• Interface with the broader development engineering teams. Support technical scouting, lab infrastructure upgrades, and mentoring of junior engineers across global sites.
• Contribute to technical documentation and IP generation for emerging technologies.
• Pursue training opportunities focused on skill development and emerging technological advancements.

Qualifications

• M.S. in Engineering, or related field with relevant experience.
• B.S. with relevant experience.
• PhD is a plus.
• Experience in precision mechanical design, ideally in mass spectrometry, analytical instrumentation, or vacuum systems.
• Expertise in 3D CAD using SolidWorks; Unigraphics (NX) experience a plus.
• Hands‑on prototyping, testing, and troubleshooting skills.
• Strong understanding of thermal, structural, and vacuum system design.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills across technical domains.
• Proven ability to work in an exploratory, fast‑paced R&D environment.

Preferred Experience

• Background in instrument design, rapid prototyping, additive manufacturing, or advanced materials.
• Strong understanding of thermal, structural, and vacuum system design.
• Experience working alongside scientists in research or advanced technology development.
• Familiarity with design practices for high voltage, vacuum compatible components.
• Intellectual property generation and technical publications.

Desired Skills

• Advanced analytical and decision‑making abilities.
• Innovative and adaptable, with a keen eye for creative problem‑solving.
• Strong leadership in team building and mentorship.

Benefits

In addition to salary, we work flexibly and provide 25 days holidays, excellent family‑friendly benefits such as attractive employer pension contribution, life assurance, income protection and private medical and dental cover. With Waters, there are plenty of opportunities for you to grow, develop and contribute.

Company Description

Waters Corporation (NYSE:WAT) is a global leader in analytical instruments, separations technologies, and software, serving the life, materials, food, and environmental sciences for over 65 years. Our company helps ensure the efficacy of medicines, the safety of food and the purity of water, and the quality and sustainability of products used every day. In over 100 countries, our 7,600+ passionate employees collaborate with customers in laboratories, manufacturing sites, and hospitals to accelerate the benefits of pioneering science.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Diversity and inclusion are fundamental to our core values at Waters Corporation. It benefits our employees, our products, our customers and our community. Waters complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws. Qualified applicants are considered without regard to sex, race, color, ancestry, national origin, citizenship status, religion, age, marital status (including civil unions), military service, veteran status, pregnancy (including childbirth and related medical conditions), genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, legally recognized disability, domestic violence victim status or any other characteristic protected by law. Waters is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. All hiring decisions are based solely on qualifications, merit, and business needs at the time.