Contract Opportunity: Principal Mechanical Engineer
Location: North West (Hybrid - minimum 2 days per week in the office)
Contract Length: 12 months (with strong likelihood of extension)
Rate: 60 per hour (Outside IR35)
Hours: 4-day week (Monday to Thursday, 10-hour days)

We're seeking a highly experienced Principal Mechanical Engineer to take a leading role in delivering complex, safety-critical projects within the nuclear sector. This is an opportunity to drive technical excellence, mentor a talented engineering team, and contribute to major design programmes in a supportive and forward-thinking environment.

Key Responsibilities:

Provide technical leadership and oversight across all stages of mechanical design, from concept through to detailed design and delivery.
Develop, review, and approve high-quality engineering documentation including specifications, calculations, drawings, and design justifications.
Ensure designs comply with all relevant standards and legislation, including CE marking and the Machinery Directive.
Lead and facilitate design reviews, HAZOPs, and risk assessments, ensuring design integrity and compliance.
Oversee and support the work of Senior and Mechanical Engineers, providing mentorship and technical guidance.
Liaise closely with project managers, safety specialists, and key stakeholders to ensure timely and effective technical delivery.
Act as a key point of contact for technical queries, ensuring alignment with nuclear and project-specific standards.

Ideal Candidate:

Extensive background in mechanical engineering within the nuclear or other highly regulated sectors.
Proven experience leading design activities for safety-critical mechanical systems - glovebox or containment system experience is highly desirable.
Strong proficiency in Inventor and/or SolidWorks for detailed 3D design and review.
Deep understanding of CE marking, the Machinery Directive, and associated compliance processes.
Familiarity with nuclear regulatory standards and procedures (e.g., AWE, Sellafield).
Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
Security Clearance (SC) is highly advantageous.

What's on Offer:

Compressed 4-day working week (Mon-Thurs) - 10-hour days for improved work-life balance.
Hybrid working - with a minimum of 2 days per week expected in the office.
Competitive rate up to 60/hr (Outside IR35).
Secure 12-month initial contract with a strong likelihood of extension.

If you're a technically strong, hands-on leader looking to make a real impact in a high-integrity, technically demanding environment, we'd like to hear from you.