Hays
Graduate Mechanical Design Engineer
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About the Company
An established and highly respected engineering business specialising in the design and manufacture of bespoke chain, conveyor, and mechanical handling solutions is seeking a Graduate or Junior Mechanical Design Engineer to join its growing engineering team. The company delivers engineered solutions to customers across a wide range of industrial sectors including manufacturing, materials handling, logistics, food production, recycling, energy, and heavy industry. With a strong reputation for quality and innovation, they offer an excellent environment for an ambitious engineering graduate looking to develop their career. This is an outstanding opportunity to gain exposure to the full product lifecycle whilst working alongside experienced engineers on technically interesting projects.
The Role
As a Graduate / Junior Mechanical Design Engineer, you will support the design and development of bespoke conveyor systems, chain-driven equipment, and automated materials handling solutions. Working closely with senior engineers and project teams, you will be involved in everything from concept design through to manufacturing and installation support. This role offers genuine development opportunities and provides exposure to real-world engineering challenges from day one.
Key Responsibilities
- Produce 3D models and manufacturing drawings using CAD software.
- Assist in the design of conveyor systems, chain drives, mechanical handling equipment, and associated assemblies.
- Prepare detailed engineering drawings, GA layouts, and BOMs.
- Support design calculations and technical assessments.
- Work closely with manufacturing and production teams to ensure designs are practical and cost-effective.
- Participate in design reviews and continuous improvement activities.
- Liaise with suppliers regarding components and technical specifications.
- Assist with project documentation and engineering records.
- Support installation and commissioning activities where required.
- Ensure designs comply with relevant engineering standards and safety requirements.
- Help investigate engineering issues and develop practical solutions.
- Contribute ideas for product improvements and innovative design solutions.
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What We're Looking For
Essential
- Degree, HND, or HNC in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline.
- Understanding of fundamental mechanical engineering principles.
- Exposure to 3D CAD software through university, placement, apprenticeship, or industry experience.
- Ability to interpret engineering drawings.
- Strong problem-solving skills.
- Good communication skills and willingness to collaborate.
- Proactive attitude with a desire to learn and develop.
Desirable
- Experience using SolidWorks, Inventor, Creo, AutoCAD, or similar CAD packages.
- Understanding of conveyor systems, machinery design, or materials handling equipment.
- Knowledge of fabrication, machining, and manufacturing processes.
- Familiarity with engineering calculations and stress analysis.
- Placement year, internship, or industrial project experience.
- Awareness of Design for Manufacture (DFM) principles.
- Understanding of chain drives, gearboxes, bearings, motors, and power transmission equipment.
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Career Development
This opportunity would suit:
- Engineering graduates seeking their first industry role.
- Junior Design Engineers looking to build experience.
- Mechanical Engineering apprentices progressing into design.
- Individuals with 1-2 years of industry experience looking for greater project exposure.
The successful candidate will receive ongoing mentoring and technical support from experienced engineers, creating a genuine pathway towards becoming a Mechanical Design Engineer, Senior Design Engineer, and ultimately progressing into technical leadership positions.
What's on Offer
- Competitive salary.
- Structured training and development.
- Exposure to bespoke engineering projects.
- Opportunity to work across multiple industries and applications.
- Mentoring from experienced engineering professionals.
- Collaborative and supportive engineering environment.
- Long-term career progression opportunities.
- Modern engineering tools and systems.
- Stable and growing business with an excellent reputation.
Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job you accept the T&C's, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found at hays.co.uk
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