Principal Mechanical Engineer

Taylor Hobson is seeking an experienced and passionate Principal Mechanical Engineer to play a leading role within our world‑class Research & Development team. This is a rare opportunity to work at the forefront of ultra‑high‑precision engineering, developing innovative technologies that operate at nanometre‑level accuracy.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development of robust concept and detailed design solutions
• Investigate, analyse, and resolve complex mechanical design issues
• Lead and actively participate in design reviews
• Provide technical leadership, mentoring, and guidance to engineers and contractors
• Deliver projects to agreed schedule and cost targets
• Ensure designs meet applicable regulatory and compliance requirements

Requirements For Consideration

• Proven ability to work within and lead cross‑functional, matrix‑based teams, including developing, mentoring, and appraising staff
• Demonstrated experience leading small teams (typically 3–5 engineers) to deliver opto‑electro‑mechanical solutions to time and budget
• Strong analytical capability combined with practical problem‑solving skills and a high level of attention to detail
• Ability to rapidly conceive, visualise, and engineer complex mechanical systems
• Sound understanding of systems engineering principles, including drives and control systems
• Ability to recognise when external specialist support is required or when an alternative technical approach is needed
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to engage both internally and with customers
• Proficient in the application of Finite Element Analysis (FEA), including stiffness and vibration analysis

Experience And Qualifications

• Degree‑ or Master’s‑level qualification in Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or a related discipline, with a minimum of 5 years’ experience in a senior or principal mechanical engineering role delivering products through the full development lifecycle
• Proven experience leading and mentoring small design teams
• Strong knowledge and practical experience of manufacturing engineering, materials, processes, and quality systems
• Proficiency in at least one major CAD system (SolidWorks, NX, CATIA, or Pro‑Engineer) and associated PDM systems
• Working knowledge of drives and control systems
• Competent user of MS Office (or equivalent)
• Some experience using mathematical or analytical tools such as MATLAB or Mathematica
• A fundamental passion for engineering and technology
• Experience in precision engineering is desirable but not essential.

What Taylor Hobson Offers You

• A multi‑disciplined environment with opportunities to learn with like‑minded colleagues
• 1pm Friday finish
• Competitive salary and 25 days holiday including Christmas
• Fantastic and supportive onboarding to ensure joiners are well integrated and comfortable at Taylor Hobson
• Generous matched pension scheme
• Life assurance
• Option to join private health plan
• Enhanced maternity pay
• We are invested in developing your skills and will promote and encourage progression through the business
• Mentoring and guidance for accreditation
• Opportunity to get involved with charity and fundraising, which we are passionate about
• Sports and Social Club – fun events and activities throughout the year including Christmas party
• Perkbox – our rewards app offering discounts from a multitude of retailers, a GP service and a 24‑hour Employee Assistance Program to ensure the health and wellbeing of our employees.
• Employee referral scheme of £1000
• Cycle to work scheme
• An inclusive workforce
• Free onsite parking, electric charging points and easy access to the city centre.

Compensation

• Currency: GBP
• Salary Minimum: Market
• Salary Maximum: Market
• Incentive: Market
• Disclaimer: Where a specific pay range is noted, it is a good faith estimate at the time of this posting. The actual salary offered will be based on experience, skills, qualifications, market / business considerations, and geographic location.