Job Title: Mechanical Design Engineer
Location: Fareham (PO15 5TX) - On-site / Hybrid
Job Type: Full-time | Permanent
Industry: Aerospace | UAV/UAS | Advanced Manufacturing & Production
Who We Are & What's on Offer
Windracers is seeking a Senior or Principal Design Engineer to lead the design and integration of powertrain systems for our advanced Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) platforms.
You'll take ownership of concept and detailed design from engine mounting and vibration isolation to cooling systems and ancillary packaging collaborating across disciplines to deliver innovative, efficient, and compliant solutions.
What You'll Be Doing
As a Senior or Principal Design Engineer, you'll lead design and development of engine integration systems for UAVs, including mounting, cooling, exhaust, and power-take-off assemblies.
- Create and manage CAD models, drawings, and PDM data in SolidWorks
- Conduct structural and vibration analysis using FEA tools
- Collaborate with airframe, autopilot, test, and manufacturing teams to ensure seamless integration
- Mentor junior engineers and support continuous improvement
- Oversee compliance, cost, and risk management throughout the design lifecycle
- Support prototype testing, validation, and documentation
You'll deliver on the following key areas:
- Engine mounting, vibration isolation systems and frame-to-fuselage integration
- Packaging of exhaust, fuel, electrical, and ancillary components
- Cooling baffles, cowlings, and airflow optimisation
- Power take-off, reduction drive, and propeller mounting
- Looms, hoses, and connection layouts
What You'll Bring
- Proven experience in mechanical design and integration of complex systems
- Strong proficiency in SolidWorks and PDM; FEA and load analysis capability essential
- Knowledge of materials, manufacturing, and assembly methods (fabrication, machining, casting)
- Understanding of rotating or reciprocating machinery, combustion engines, or transmissions
- Excellent problem-solving, communication, and leadership skills
- Degree in Mechanical or related Engineering (Master's or further CPD desirable)
- 8+ years' experience in aerospace, automotive, or UAV design
- Passion for aerospace, drones, and next-generation flight systems
What's Next?
If you're ready to shape the future of autonomous flight, we'd love to hear from you.
Apply today and help us engineer the next evolution in UAV technology.
