Principal Mechanical Development Engineer (Fluid Systems)

Element Digital Engineering is a leading provider of specialist engineering simulation design build test and consultancy services to clients across the Aerospace Automotive Energy Built Environment and Chemical Process industries both in the UK and internationally. We deliver support across the full development lifecycle from initial concept and feasibility through to detailed design performance verification and testing.

As part of our continued growth we are seeking a Principal Mechanical Development Engineer (Fluid Systems) to join our team with the primary place of work being either our Bristol Quayside or Bristol Bradley Stoke offices. This role supports projects delivered at our Cotswold Airport Hot and Cold Fuel Test Facility a state-of-the-art one-of-a-kind site supporting advanced aerospace propulsion and sustainable aviation technologies.

This senior role is ideal for an engineer with deep technical expertise in mechanical systems involving fluid mechanics thermal and structural performance instrumentation and systems integration. Youll be at the forefront of ground-breaking development and testing programmes leading the design development and delivery of bespoke high-performance systems from first principles to operational readiness.

As an Engineer at Element Digital Engineering you are first and foremost a Consultant. This role demands a combination of technical excellence commercial awareness and a proactive adaptable mindset to support a wide range of clients and project types. Youll work in a dynamic collaborative consultancy environment where your contribution supports both technical outcomes and broader business success.

• Lead the full lifecycle design and development of bespoke mechanical and fluid systems including tubular and pressure-containing systems instrumentation electrical power equipment and supporting structures
• Take full ownership of requirements-based design processes including requirements capture traceability verification planning and compliance evidence generation
• Develop technical specifications test strategies plans and procedures to support project and client objectives.
• Conduct or oversee mechanical thermal and fluid-dynamic calculations ensuring system performance meets demanding aerospace and industrial requirements.
• Define and lead the integration of new systems with existing infrastructure ensuring mechanical electrical and data compatibility and safety.
• Prepare high-quality technical deliverables including schematics P&IDs bills of materials assembly instructions and test documentation.
• Lead technical aspects of project delivery setting direction for other engineers approving technical work and ensuring outcomes meet both internal standards and client expectations.
• Collaborate across disciplines (electrical systems test) to deliver complete high-functioning solutions.
• Lead or contribute to formal project phases including Test Readiness Reviews Design Reviews and client technical discussions.
• Actively support business development including leading project bids client meetings and technical sales activities.
• Drive continuous improvement by developing and sharing new processes methods and tools within the as a technical mentor and line manager to junior engineers and project staff.
• Support client account growth and contribute to long-term strategic development of technical capability.
• Support testing activities at Digital Engineering test facilities (travel reimbursed)

• A degree in Mechanical Engineering (or related field); higher degree or Chartered Engineer (CEng) status strongly preferred
• Extensive (8 years) experience in the design development and delivery of fluid mechanical systems in demanding industrial or R&D environments.
• Proven ability to lead multi-disciplinary projects involving complex mechanical fluid and thermal systems.
• Deep understanding of fluid system design including pressure drop flow heat transfer system dynamics and structural integrity.
• Strong familiarity with instrumentation strategy including pressure temperature and flow measurement and associated control/data systems.
• Experience producing and approving engineering documentation (e.g. schematics BOMs test procedures compliance matrices).
• Demonstrated understanding of systems engineering principles including requirements capture V&V and compliance demonstration.
• Hands-on experience with tools for CAD simulation (e.g. FEA/CFD) and design analysis.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with experience leading and mentoring engineering teams.
• Proven track record in consultancy or client-facing engineering roles including leading proposals engaging with customers and representing technical work externally.ience in the aerospace sustainable propulsion or energy sectors.
  
  Benefits

Smarter Working / Bonus Plan / 25 Days annual leave 8 days Bank Holidays / Private Healthcare / Life Insurance / Free Refreshments & Snacks

At Element we always take pride in putting our people first. We are an equal opportunity employer that recognizes diversity and inclusion as fundamental to our Vision of becoming the worlds most trusted testing partner.

All suitably qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment on the basis of objective work related criteria and without regard for the following: age disability ethnic origin gender marital status race religion responsibility of dependents sexual orientation or gender identity or other characteristics in accordance with the applicable governing laws or other characteristics in accordance with the applicable governing laws.