Mechanical Engineer (Contractor)

Requirements

• Degree in Mechanical Engineering (or a closely related discipline).
• Minimum 5 years' relevant experience in an R&D, product development or test environment.
• Demonstrable heat pump knowledge - you understand how heat pumps work, their operating envelopes, and how the hydraulic system around them behaves (flow, temperature, ΔT, defrost, modulation, etc.).
• Strong hands-on experience - this is the most important requirement. You can build, plumb, commission and fault-find systems yourself, not just specify them. Practical plumbing and pipework skills are essential.
• Experience working with hydraulic systems - pumps, valves, heat exchangers, tanks, pipework and the behaviour of water-side circuits.
• Comfortable instrumenting rigs and interpreting test data to draw engineering conclusions.
• CAD proficiency for designing rig components and prototype parts.
• Able to work independently and using own initiative on-site in Slough and move quickly in a fast-paced R&D environment.

Additional Information

Octopus Energy's R&D team in Slough is developing the next generation of heat pump systems and hydraulic products that surround them. We're looking for a hands-on R&D Engineer to join the team on a contract basis to help design, build, test and iterate hardware that works alongside heat pumps. This is a practical, workshop-floor role as much as a design one. You won't just specify components - you'll be plumbing rigs, commissioning systems, instrumenting test loops and getting real data out of real hardware. We need someone who is equally comfortable with a CAD model, a P&ID and a pipe wrench. If you like the idea of taking a concept from a sketch to a working prototype on a test rig within weeks, this is the role. If this sounds like you then we'd love to hear from you. Are you ready for a career with us? We want to ensure you have all the tools and environment you need to unleash your potential. Need any specific accommodations? Whether you require specific accommodations or have a unique preference, let us know, and we'll do what we can to customise your interview process for comfort and maximum magic! Studies have shown that some groups of people, like women, are less likely to apply to a role unless they meet 100% of the job requirements. Whoever you are, if you like one of our jobs, we encourage you to apply as you might just be the candidate we hire. Across Octopus, we're looking for genuinely decent people who are honest and empathetic. Our people are our strongest asset and the unique skills and perspectives people bring to the team are the driving force of our success. As an equal opportunity employer, we do not discriminate on the basis of any protected attribute. Our commitment is to provide equal opportunities, an inclusive work environment, and fairness for everyone.

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