Lead Mechanical Design Engineer

Location: Bournemouth Salary: Competitive + Benefits Hybrid: Up to 2 days WFH (post‑qualifying period) Industry: Global Engineering & Product Innovation A globally recognised, award‑winning engineering organisation is seeking a Lead Mechanical Design Engineer to drive key design workstreams across new product development and continuous improvement. This is a high‑impact role where you’ll shape product direction, provide technical leadership, and ensure alignment across engineering, product, and operations. What You’ll Be Doing * Lead mechanical and product design activities from concept through to launch * Turn early concepts into validated, manufacturable solutions * Work closely with NPI teams to refine designs and ensure production readiness * Collaborate with supply chain and manufacturing partners to optimise DFM, quality and cost * Coordinate V&V, including FMEA, prototype builds and testing * Run design reviews and drive resolution of engineering challenges * Mentor junior and mid‑level engineers, supporting their technical development About You * Proven experience leading mechanical or product design projects end‑to‑end * Strong 3D CAD capability (Solid Edge, SolidWorks, Inventor, Creo, etc.) * Passionate about design, problem‑solving and delivering high‑quality products Desirable experience: * Sheet metal design * Plastic injection moulding * Integrating electronic/electrical components * Consumer product development * HND/Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Product Design or similar Benefits * Unlimited holiday * Company pension * Discretionary annual bonus * Hybrid working (after qualifying period)