R&D Mechatronics Engineer
About Us:
Thermal Hazard Technology (THT) is a market leader in specialised calorimeters with applications in Energetic and Reactive Chemicals and Lithium Batteries. As a fast-growing SME with a strong global presence and financial stability, we are renowned for our innovative solutions and exceptional customer service. Based in Milton Keynes, UK, and part of the AIM-listed Judges Scientific Group, THT exports over 90% of our products worldwide, with significant markets in China and the USA. Our prestigious clientele includes Pfizer, AstraZeneca, GSK, Panasonic, NASA, BMW, Samsung, LG, Ford, GM, Nissan, and Apple.
The Opportunity:
We are looking for talented and ambitious individual to help us grow our R&D capabilities, consisting of live and simulated sample testing, equipment development and validation, process and system optimisation, and hands on engineering. The successful candidate will be part of our R&D team and primarily conduct product research and development of our calorimeters.
The role offers great learning support, tremendous scope for progression and a protective yet challenging working environment.
The Role:
We are seeking a highly motivated Mechatronics Engineer (R&D) to join our dynamic research and development team. This role involves designing, developing, and integrating mechanical, electronic, and electrical components for cutting-edge products. The ideal candidate will work at the intersection of engineering disciplines, driving innovation and ensuring the successful delivery of complex, multidisciplinary projects. If you thrive in a fast-paced, problem-solving environment and have a passion for creating novel solutions, we want to hear from you.
Key Responsibilities
Design & Development
- Develop and refine electromechanical subsystems for scientific instruments (e.g., sensors, actuators, thermoregulation circuits).
- Collaborate with multidisciplinary R&D teams (mechanical, electrical, firmware, and software engineers) to design integrated solutions.
- Create detailed 3D models, assemblies, and drawings using CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, Creo, or Autodesk Inventor).
Prototyping & Fabrication
- Build, assemble, and troubleshoot prototype systems and components.
- Work with internal machine shops or vendors to produce precision parts.
- Select and source components (motors, encoders, connectors, PCBs, sensors, etc.).
Testing & Validation
- Plan, execute, and document performance and reliability tests of mechanical and electromechanical assemblies.
- Validate designs against technical requirements and regulatory standards (e.g., CE, ISO, UL).
- Perform failure analysis, root-cause investigation, and implement corrective design actions.
Systems Integration
- Integrate electrical, mechanical, and software systems into final products.
- Ensure compatibility of hardware interfaces, wiring harnesses, and communication protocols.
- Support the transition from prototype to manufacturing, ensuring design-for-assembly and design-for-test principles are met.
Documentation & Compliance
- Generate and maintain design documentation, BOMs, and test reports.
- Contribute to risk assessments, design reviews, and compliance documentation.
- Support the preparation of technical files and validation reports for regulatory submissions.
Cross-Functional Support
- Collaborate with production, quality assurance, and field service teams to resolve product issues.
- Provide technical input for product improvements, cost reduction, and reliability enhancement.
Essential Requirements
- Bachelor’s or master’s degree in mechanical, electronics, or electromechanical engineering, or a related field.
- 3+ years of experience in a multidisciplinary engineering role, ideally in an R&D environment.
- Proficiency in systems integration and validation involving mechanical, electronics, and software components.
- Strong knowledge of design tools (e.g., CAD for mechanical, EDA tools for electronics, etc).
- Experience with embedded systems, microcontrollers, and interfacing hardware and software.
- Demonstrated ability to develop and execute test protocols for system validation.
- Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
- Ensure project and individual timelines are consistently met in collaboration with the line manager.
Preferred Skills
- Familiarity with C and embedded firmware programming and troubleshooting.
- Familiarity with Linux OS environments.
- Hands-on experience with rapid prototyping techniques (e.g., 3D printing, PCB fabrication).
- Practical experience conducting customer-facing testing.
- Knowledge of calorimetry in chemical or battery industries.
Benefits and Package:
- Annual salary dependent on skills, qualifications and experience
- Bonus based on performance
- 4-days week eligibility at the end of the probation period
- EV salary Sacrifice Scheme eligibility after 1 year seniority
- Share Incentive Pan
- Pension scheme, 5% matched contribution
- Life Cover
- Holidays – 25 days + bank hols (plus seniority days)
- Training plan available
Final note: If you are passionate about driving growth and innovation, and you possess the right attitude and minimum skill set, we encourage you to apply. This is an exciting opportunity to make a significant impact and grow with a dynamic company.
No visa or work permit support can be provided for this role.
To apply for the above position please send your CV and Covering Letter answering these 3 screening questions:
Screening Questions
- Can you describe a project where you integrated mechanical and electronics systems? What challenges did you face, and how did you overcome them?
- How do you approach troubleshooting complex system-level issues?
- Are you familiar with safety or compliance standards in systems development? Can you provide an example of how you addressed these requirements in a project?