Mechanical Engineering Manager

Job Title: Project Engineering Manager – Industrial Robotics / Automation

Location: Manchester or Sheffield

Department: Robotics

About the Role:

We are seeking an experienced and mechanically focused Project Engineering Manager to support the delivery of complex industrial robotic cell installations. This role is ideal for someone who has worked closely with System Integrators, managed full project lifecycles, and taken ownership of the mechanical elements of bespoke automation systems.

You will oversee mechanical design, integration, installation, and commissioning activities for custom robotic cells across a wide range of industries. Every project is unique, and the successful candidate will be a multidisciplined engineer comfortable working in diverse environments and coordinating multiple technical streams to achieve successful project outcomes.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage the mechanical engineering scope of robotic cell projects from concept through to installation and commissioning.
• Work closely with System Integrators, ensuring mechanical designs, tooling, fixtures, guarding, and robotic interfaces meet project requirements.
• Oversee mechanical design reviews, risk assessments, and compliance with relevant engineering and safety standards.
• Coordinate cross-discipline engineering activities (mechanical, electrical, controls, safety) to ensure seamless system integration.
• Manage project timelines, deliverables, and stakeholder communication, ensuring all mechanical work packages are completed on schedule.
• Support on-site installation, commissioning, and troubleshooting of mechanical systems.
• Provide technical guidance on materials, manufacturing processes, mechanical layouts, and assembly methods.
• Drive continuous improvement across mechanical processes, system design, and integration methodologies.

Requirements:

• Degree or equivalent in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Strong background in the mechanical design and delivery of industrial automation or robotic cell projects.
• Experience working with or for System Integrators, with an understanding of how mechanical systems integrate into full robotic solutions.
• Competency with CAD tools for mechanical layouts, assembly drawings, and system design (e.g., SolidWorks, Inventor, AutoCAD).
• Broad multidisciplinary experience across multiple industries (e.g., automotive, aerospace, nuclear, FMCG, manufacturing).
• Proven project management skills, with the ability to coordinate engineers, suppliers, and integrators.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and problem-solving abilities.
• A proactive and adaptable mindset, comfortable working on bespoke and challenging projects.

Why This Role Is Exciting:

• Lead projects involving bespoke robotic cells and advanced automation systems.
• Work in a dynamic environment where no two installations are the same.
• Engage with a wide range of industries, technologies, and complex mechanical engineering challenges.
• Opportunity to shape technical direction, influence system design, and drive high-impact automation projects from start to finish.