Lead Prototype Engineer

Lead Product Development Engineer Saint Mellons (CF3) 6 Month Contract (Potential Permanent Opportunity) Our client is an innovative technology manufacturer developing next-generation infrastructure products for global markets. They are seeking an experienced Lead Product Development Engineer to lead the design, development and physical prototyping of a new product line. This is a hands-on engineering role within a fast-paced startup environment, ideal for someone who enjoys combining design, prototyping and workshop-based engineering. The successful candidate will play a key role in developing large-scale prototype products and supporting the transition from concept through to manufacturing readiness. Benefits Salary of up to £65,000 Flexible Hours – days only Opportunity to play a key role in launching an entirely new product line Future shareholder opportunity Potential to transition into a permanent leadership role Opportunity to build and lead a future engineering team Hands-on involvement in developing innovative manufacturing technology Work within a collaborative, high-growth engineering environment 28 days holidays Pension Role Responsibilities Leading the design and development of large-scale product prototypes Producing CAD designs and engineering drawings using SolidWorks, AutoCAD or similar software Developing prototype components and assemblies for testing and refinement Supporting iterative product improvements through design modifications and testing Taking a hands-on approach to prototype assembly and physical product development Working directly with fabrication partners, suppliers and workshop teams to build prototype components Supporting machining, fabrication and assembly activities during prototype development Troubleshooting design and manufacturing issues during the build process Ensuring prototype designs are suitable for scalable manufacturing processes Developing practical solutions to support transition from prototype to production Evaluating materials, components and fabrication techniques for manufacturing efficiency Supporting the development of future manufacturing processes and systems Acting as the technical lead when working with external fabrication partners and suppliers Supporting the coordination of prototype builds and engineering development activities Working closely with the leadership team to deliver the product development roadmap Supporting safe workshop and prototyping environments Conducting risk assessments and implementing appropriate safety procedures for engineering activities Essential Skills & Experience Minimum 5 years’ experience within Mechanical Engineering, Product Development or manufacturing environments Proven experience in prototyping or design-to-manufacture engineering roles Strong CAD experience using SolidWorks, AutoCAD or similar design software Experience working on large-scale physical products or structures Hands-on engineering mindset with experience supporting fabrication, assembly or workshop environments Strong problem-solving and practical engineering skills Ability to work in fast-paced development environments and take ownership of engineering projects Desirable but not essential: Experience working within startup or early-stage product development environments If you are interested and have the relevant experience, please apply with an up-to-date copy of your CV. As champions of diversity and inclusion in the workplace, THOMAS Professional commit to reviewing applications we receive with complete fairness and equality. At THOMAS Professional, we are committed to creating an inclusive and accessible recruitment process. If you require any reasonable adjustments during the application or interview process, please let us know, and we’ll be happy to accommodate your needs. THOMAS Professional is acting as an agency on behalf of the client for this position. THOMAS Professional is proud to be a corporate member of the REC, the recruitment industry's leading professional body. IND1