Automation Design Engineer

Role Overview

As a key member of our expanding Automation Engineering team, the Automation Design Engineer will sit at the intersection of applications engineering and detailed design. You will support the end-to-end lifecycle of bespoke automation solutions for manufacturing clients—from concept and specification to 3D design, simulation, and implementation.

This role is ideal for a highly skilled Design Engineer with experience in industrial tooling, automation systems, and mechanical integration. You will contribute to both pre-sales applications support and post-order design delivery.

Key Responsibilities

Applications Support

* Work with Sales and Applications Engineers to evaluate customer requirements and translate them into viable automation concepts.

* Generate technical proposals including solution concepts, layouts, cycle times, and risk assessments.

* Conduct site visits to capture key process inputs (e.g. torque, part tolerances, spatial constraints).

Design Engineering

* Own mechanical design of automation and workstation systems (tool holders, reaction arms, custom jigs/fixtures, semi-automated stations).

* Develop 3D CAD models (preferably SolidWorks or Autodesk Inventor) and detailed drawings for manufacture.

* Select and integrate components (motors, actuators, vision systems, HMIs, safety devices).

Collaboration & Project Delivery

* Work closely with electrical/control engineers and project managers to ensure integrated system delivery.

* Support build, test, and commissioning stages in-house and at customer sites.

* Maintain accurate BOMs and documentation for handover to service/support teams.

Required Skills & Experience

* Degree or equivalent in Mechanical or Mechatronics Engineering.

* 5+ years experience in design engineering, ideally with industrial automation or tooling.

* Strong CAD skills in SolidWorks, Inventor, or equivalent.

* Understanding of DFM, machine safety standards (PUWER, CE, UKCA).

* Familiarity with pneumatics, motion control, and operator interface systems.

* Experience working directly with customers and cross-functional teams.

Desirable Skills

* Exposure to robotic systems (collaborative or industrial).

* Knowledge of PLC systems and electrical integration (for collaboration purposes).

* Simulation experience for stress analysis or motion kinematics.

* Experience working in fast-paced, high-mix manufacturing or B2B environments.

Personal Attributes

* Customer-focused with strong problem-solving abilities.

* Confident communicator—able to liaise with stakeholders from shop floor to board level.

* Proactive, organised, and able to manage multiple design projects concurrently.

* Collaborative mindset, ready to support both application concepting and project delivery