Underwater Mechanical R&D Engineer - Physical Products

Helsing; Plymouth; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading defence AI company in Plymouth seeks an Underwater Mechanical R&D Engineer to design mechanical architectures for marine robots. This role involves prototyping, testing, and collaborating with engineers to shape robust and cost-effective solutions. The ideal candidate will have a Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering and substantial experience in underwater robotics design.

Benefits

Competitive compensation and stock options

Relocation support

Social and education allowances

Regular company events

Hands-on onboarding programme

Qualifications

• Several years of experience in mechatronic, ROV/AUV or ship design, ideally for underwater robotics.
• Proven knowledge of mechanical design standards and analysis capabilities.
• Knowledge of constraints associated with the underwater maritime environment.

Responsibilities

• Own the mechanical design of parts and full assemblies.
• Ensure energy performance with a focus on hydrodynamics.
• Create design concepts based on comprehensive requirements.
• Develop robust, scalable and cost-effective components.

Skills

Hands-on experience with 3-D/2-D CAD

Knowledge of ASME/ISO drawing standards

Experience in mechatronic design

Excellent communication skills

Eager to drive fast-track developments

Education

Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field

Tools

SolidWorks/PDM

Siemens NX/Teamcenter

Job description

Underwater Mechanical R&D Engineer – Physical Products

Plymouth, England, United Kingdom

Company Overview

Helsing is a defence AI company dedicated to protecting democratic societies. We pursue technological leadership so that open societies can maintain sovereign decision‑making and uphold ethical standards. Our multidisciplinary team includes engineers, AI specialists and programme managers who collaborate openly to address complex, impactful problems.

The Role

As an Underwater Mechanical R&D Engineer, you will design the mechanical architecture of marine robots, prototype and test components, and drive industrialisation. You will work closely with electronic engineers, roboticists and production teams, shaping technical decisions that enable robust, scalable, and cost‑effective solutions for Helsing’s advanced defence capabilities.

Day‑to‑Day Responsibilities

• Own the mechanical design of parts and full assemblies
• Ensure energy performance and manoeuvrability, with a particular focus on hydrodynamics
• Create design concepts based on comprehensive requirements and analytical assessments
• Produce 3‑D and 2‑D documentation, ensuring proper form, fit and function of components
• Apply the latest design and drawing standards, considering manufacturing aspects
• Develop robust, scalable and cost‑effective components
• Define and execute validation tests for technical maturation
• Produce comprehensive design documentation in accordance with company guidelines and quality standards

Requirements

• Several years of experience in mechatronic, ROV/AUV or ship design, ideally for underwater robotics
• Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, or a related field
• Outstanding hands‑on experience with 3‑D/2‑D CAD and PLM tools (preferably SolidWorks/PDM or Siemens NX/Teamcenter)
• Proven knowledge of ASME/ISO drawing standards, mechanical design standards and analysis capabilities for mechanical elements
• Knowledge of constraints associated with the underwater maritime environment
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English
• Eager to drive fast‑track developments and realise innovative solutions
• Enjoy working in a fun, highly flexible environment

Nice to Have

• Expertise in hydrodynamics and CFD
• Experience with ROV or AUV design and systems under external pressure
• Experience with actuators (brushed and brushless motors, servomotors, magnetic coupling) and sensors used in underwater robotics or mechatronics

Why Join Helsing

• Direct contribution to protection of democratic societies while balancing ethical and geopolitical concerns
• Engage in highly unusual technical challenges where robustness, safety and ethics are paramount
• Work with cutting‑edge technology such as reinforcement learning, distributed systems, generative AI and advanced deployment infrastructure
• Opportunity to shape company culture and contribute to responsible autonomy and critical thinking

What We Offer

• A focus on outcomes, not time‑tracking
• Competitive compensation and stock options
• Relocation support
• Social and education allowances
• Regular company events and all‑hands meetings across Europe
• Hands‑on onboarding programme (affectionately labelled “Infraduction”) building tooling and applications used across the company

Helsing is an equal opportunities employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, religion, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability or gender identity. Please do not submit personal data revealing racial or ethnic origin, political opinions, religious or philosophical beliefs, trade union membership, data concerning your health, or data concerning your sexual orientation.

Helsing's Candidate Privacy and Confidentiality Regime can be found here.

Seniority Level

Mid‑Senior level

Employment Type

Full‑time

Job Function

Management and Manufacturing

Industries

Software Development