Principal Mechanical Design Engineer

About the role

The roles offer the chance to lead complex mechanical design work packages on critical defence products and influence design decisions across the full life cycle. You will play a key role in ensuring designs meet performance, safety, cost, and schedule requirements. The roles provide excellent long-term career progression opportunities within MBDA, including further technical leadership or engineering management pathways. Appointments will be made at an appropriate level based on skills and experience. What we're looking for from you: Ideally Degree, HND, or HNC in Mechanical Engineering (or equivalent) with significant industry experience Proven ability to lead mechanical design work packages within multi-disciplinary teams Strong experience across full product life cycles, from concept to in-service support In-depth knowledge of design proving and qualification activities Robust hands-on experience with design methodologies such as DFMEA, DFA, and DFM Strong communication skills with the ability to influence, negotiate, and make technical decisions Experience engaging with and developing suppliers and external partners Ability to manage priorities, assess risk, and mentor less experienced engineers Understanding of structural, thermal, and/or dynamic analysis (advantageous) Relevant 3D CAD/CAE experience (training provided on company tools) Note: This role may involve UK travel and occasional European travel. Interested? Click Apply Now! Our company: Peace is not a given, Freedom is not a given, Sovereignty is not a given MBDA is a leading defence organisation. We are proud of the role we play in supporting the Armed Forces who protect our nations. We partner with governments to work together towards a common goal, defending our freedom. We are proud of our employee-led networks, examples include: Gender Equality, Pride, Menopause Matters, Parents and Carers, Armed Forces, Ethnic Diversity, Neurodiversity, Disability and more... We recognise that everyone is unique, and we encourage you to speak to us should you require any advice, support or adjustments throughout our recruitment process. Follow us on LinkedIn (MBDA), X (@MBDA_UK), Instagram (MBDA_UK) and Glassdoor or visit our MBDA Careers website for more information.