Principal Engineer

Principal Engineer – Mechanical / Aerospace Systems

An advanced engineering organisation operating in a highly regulated sector is seeking a Principal Engineer to lead technical development projects within its engineering function. This role blends hands-on engineering expertise with project leadership, playing a key part in delivering complex, safety-critical products.

You’ll work closely with internal teams and external partners, driving technical direction while ensuring projects meet performance, quality, and certification requirements.

This is a senior, delivery-focused role requiring strong technical judgement, stakeholder coordination, and the ability to balance engineering rigour with programme timelines.

Key Responsibilities

Lead and manage technical development projects aligned to product and R&D strategy
Provide strategic technical direction and support the growth of internal engineering capability
Coordinate cross-functional teams and external partners to deliver project milestones
Own project status reporting across schedule, quality, deliverables, and cost
Support proposal development and contribute to customer and supplier engagements
Participate in and lead design reviews, technical meetings, and certification activities
Prepare, review, and approve engineering documentation, including design and certification submissions
Approve engineering drawings and modifications using CAD and data management systems
Contribute to the development of engineering tools, processes, and continuous improvement initiatives
Ensure compliance with safety standards, engineering governance, and company procedures

Requirements

Degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline (Master’s level desirable)
Strong experience designing electromechanical systems, mechanisms, or actuation systems
Proven background in highly regulated industries (e.g. aerospace, defence, or similar)
Deep understanding of engineering fundamentals including materials, mechanisms, and reliability
Experience with 3D CAD tools (Creo preferred) and engineering drawing standards (e.g. BS8888, GD&T)
Knowledge of manufacturing processes for precision-engineered products
Experience with product testing, qualification, and certification processes
Familiarity with relevant industry standards (e.g. environmental and qualification standards)
Strong communication skills with the ability to work across multidisciplinary teams
Able to manage workload independently while delivering to tight deadlines

What’s Offered

Competitive salary (dependent on experience)
Benefits package including pension and healthcare
Opportunity to work on complex, high-value engineering programmes
Collaborative environment with scope for technical leadership and progression