Mechanical Design Engineer

Job Title: Mechanical / Design Engineer

Location: Hybrid / Reading (UK-based nuclear projects)

Contract Type: Contract (Inside IR35)

Clearance: Must hold SC clearance or DV Clearance

Sector: Nuclear

We are recruiting on behalf of a confidential client delivering high-profile projects in the UK nuclear sector. We re looking for experienced Mechanical and Design Engineers to support engineering activities across infrastructure, mechanical systems, decommissioning, and lifecycle facility design.

This is a great opportunity for professionals with a strong background in regulated, high-hazard environments to contribute to nationally significant programmes.

Role Overview:

You ll play a key part in developing and delivering compliant engineering solutions, with involvement across mechanical design, infrastructure layouts, decommissioning support, and asset integrity. The work will span concept through to detailed design, including documentation, analysis, and stakeholder engagement.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop detailed mechanical or infrastructure designs using CAD tools (e.g., AutoCAD, SolidWorks)
• Prepare and maintain technical specifications, design documents, and operational manuals
• Ensure all designs meet relevant nuclear safety, engineering, and legislative standards
• Carry out computer simulations, calculations, and FEA (where applicable)
• Liaise with internal teams, suppliers, and regulatory stakeholders to align project deliverables
• Conduct research and provide technical input across the full design lifecycle
• Maintain the design intent across systems, facilities, and infrastructure
• Promote health, safety, environmental, and quality compliance in all outputs
• Escalate design risks or non-conformities to the Principal Engineer or Technical Authority

Requirements:

• Degree or ONC/OND in Mechanical or Design Engineering (HNC/HND desirable)
• 2+ years' experience in mechanical or infrastructure design (nuclear or high-hazard sectors preferred)
• Proficient in CAD software (AutoCAD, SolidWorks); FEA experience advantageous
• Strong working knowledge of engineering regulations and applicable standards
• Experience working within multidisciplinary teams in regulated environments

Desirable:

• PE certification or equivalent
• Knowledge of nuclear-specific processes, materials, and design codes
• Experience supporting decommissioning or high-integrity safety case designs

Interested?

Please send your CV to Ollie Dutton at (url removed) or call (phone number removed) to find out more.