Mechanical Design Engineer

Job Title: Mechanical Design Engineer Location: Rugeley Term: 12 Months Hourly Rate: £DOE IR35 Status: Inside IR35 Key Skills: Mechanical Design, Engineering, SolidWorks, CAD, Mechanical, Enclosures, Shock, Thermal We are seeking an experienced Mechanical Design Engineer Contractor with strong expertise in complex enclosure design to support our growing engineering team. You will work within integrated product teams and collaborate closely with specialists across mechanical, electrical, systems and electro-mechanical disciplines to develop high-performance mechanical solutions for cutting-edge defence products. This role is ideal for engineers who thrive in a fast-paced environment, enjoy variety, and want to contribute across the full product lifecycle, from concept generation to final delivery. Key Responsibilities Lead the design and development of mechanical systems, components, and assemblies.Produce and review engineering drawings, calculations, specifications, and technical reports.Develop robust engineering solutions from concept through to manufacture and implementation.Apply engineering analysis techniques, including FEA, to support design decisions.Ensure compliance with relevant engineering standards, regulations, and company procedures.Support design reviews, technical reviews, and engineering assurance activities.Deliver engineering work packages to agreed quality, cost, and schedule requirements.Manage technical risks and support resolution of engineering issues.Liaise with customers, suppliers, manufacturing teams, and multidisciplinary stakeholders.Support project planning, estimating, and progress reporting activities. Experience & Qualifications Degree qualified in Mechanical Engineering or a related engineering discipline.Extensive mechanical engineering experience, with a proven track record of delivering engineering solutions from concept through to manufacture and implementation.Proficient in SolidWorks for 3D modelling, assembly creation, and technical drawing production.Working knowledge of Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and the ability to interpret and apply results to support design decisions.Strong understanding and practical application of Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing (GD&T).Experience producing engineering drawings, calculations, technical specifications, and design documentation.Strong understanding of manufacturing processes and Design for Manufacture and Assembly (DFMA) principles.Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills with a pragmatic approach to engineering challenges.Effective communicator, capable of engaging confidently with customers, suppliers, project teams, manufacturing personnel, and senior stakeholders.Ability to independently manage technical activities and support less experienced engineers.Strong organisational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet project deadlines.Familiarity with applicable engineering standards, regulations, and quality management processes. You will be part of a team that welcomes new ways of working and empowers people to excel in a supportive, forward-thinking environment. ***PLEASE NOTE*** Security Clearance (SC) or eligibility to gain is required to be considered for this vacancy