Principal Mechanical Engineer - HVAC (Permanent)

Summary This is a unique opportunity for an experienced Mechanical Design Engineer to play a key role in delivering complex, high‑performance engineering solutions across the complete product lifecycle. From early-stage concepts to in-service support, you will influence the design and development of advanced systems that operate in demanding, safety-critical environments. This role offers both technical depth and leadership responsibility, giving you the platform to shape long-term engineering outcomes while progressing your career. About the Organisation You will be joining a globally recognised engineering organisation working on advanced defence and technology solutions. The company plays a vital role in supporting national security and international partnerships, delivering cutting-edge systems in highly complex environments. The organisation is committed to diversity and inclusion, offering employee-led networks and a supportive, collaborative culture where everyone can thrive. About the Role As a Principal Mechanical Design Engineer, you will take ownership of significant technical work packages and provide leadership across multidisciplinary teams. You will guide mechanical design activities, ensuring solutions meet performance, safety, cost, and schedule requirements. You will operate at the forefront of engineering development, working collaboratively with internal stakeholders and external partners to solve complex challenges and deliver robust design solutions. Key Responsibilities Lead mechanical design activities across the full product lifecycle, from concept through to in-service support Drive design maturity, ensuring compliance with performance, cost, safety, and schedule requirements Manage and coordinate multidisciplinary engineering inputs Influence key technical decisions and design direction Support design proving, qualification, and verification activities Engage with suppliers and external partners to ensure successful delivery Participate in and contribute to formal design reviews Mentor and support the development of junior engineers What We’re Looking For We are seeking a confident and capable engineer who combines strong technical expertise with leadership ability, supported by the following: Degree, HND, HNC or equivalent in Mechanical Engineering (or relevant discipline) Proven experience leading mechanical design packages in complex environments Strong understanding of the full product lifecycle (concept to in-service) Expertise in design methodologies such as DFMEA, DFA, and DFM Ability to influence stakeholders and make sound technical decisions Experience working within multidisciplinary teams Desirable: Knowledge of structural, thermal, or dynamic analysis Experience with CAD/CAE tools Supplier engagement and development experience What’s in it for You? Base salary in excess of £50,000 (depending on experience) Company Bonus: Up to £2,500 (based on performance) Pension: Up to 14% combined contributions Paid Overtime Opportunities Flexible & Hybrid Working (typically 2–3 days on site) Enhanced Parental Leave and family-focused benefits Healthcare Cash Plan for everyday wellbeing expenses Career Development This role offers strong long-term progression opportunities, including: Advancing into technical leadership roles Transitioning into engineering management pathways Opportunities to work across a wide range of innovative programmes You will be supported through structured development and ongoing training, ensuring you continue to grow your expertise and leadership capability These vacancies require clearance. Applicants must be able to obtain and maintain relevant clearance. Electus Recruitment Solutions provides specialist engineering and technical recruitment solutions to high-technology industries. Thank you for your interest. If you do not hear from us within seven working days, please presume your application has been unsuccessful on this occasion. You may resubmit your CV or details in the future, and we shall assess your suitability then.