Job Description

Company Profile

Location: Waterbeach, UK
Department: R&D – Production Engineering
Reports to: Production Engineering Manager
Type: Full-time, Permanent

Thermoteknix Systems Ltd, founded in 1982 and based in Cambridge, is a world leader in thermal imaging, night vision, and augmented reality systems. Our award-winning technologies are trusted by defence, security, and industrial customers in over 70 countries. With in-house R&D, cutting-edge innovation, and a global reputation for quality, we design and manufacture solutions that perform in the toughest environments.

About You

Thermoteknix is establishing a new Production Engineering team within R&D to transition products from development into robust, scalable manufacturing.

The Mechanical Engineer will play a role in ensuring mechanical aspects of new and existing products are optimised for manufacture, test, assembly, and long-term production support. This role covers production process development, fixture and jig design, documentation, and continuous improvement of manufacturing capability.

Key Responsibilities
New Product Introduction & Transfer to Manufacturing

• Support the structured transfer of products from R&D into engineering and manufacturing.
• Ensure mechanical designs are suitable for production through DFM/DFA reviews.
• Lead mechanical workstreams within NPI projects, ensuring readiness for build and scale.
• Collaborate with design engineers to finalise manufacturable mechanical solutions.

Production Engineering Development

• Design and develop mechanical assembly fixtures, test jigs, tooling, and support equipment.
• Define and document mechanical build procedures, assembly instructions, and production workflows.
• Establish repeatable and controlled manufacturing processes for mechanical sub-assemblies.

Continuous Improvement & Manufacturing Optimisation

• Drive improvements in manufacturing efficiency, quality, and repeatability for products already in production.
• Identify opportunities to streamline mechanical assembly processes and reduce build time.
• Support cost-reduction initiatives through design refinement and improved production methods.
• Implement engineering change solutions to enhance manufacturability and reliability.

Production Support & Issue Resolution

• Provide hands-on engineering support when mechanical issues arise in production or test.
• Perform root cause analysis and corrective actions for mechanical failures or assembly problems.
• Work closely with manufacturing teams to troubleshoot and resolve build challenges quickly.
• Support concession management, non-conformance investigations, and product quality improvements.

Documentation & Engineering Control

• Maintain clear and accurate mechanical production documentation, including:
  • Work instructions
  • Build and assembly procedures
  • Tooling drawings
  • Test fixture documentation
• Support configuration control and engineering change processes (ECN).

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Act as the mechanical interface between R&D, Production, Quality, Supply Chain, and Operations.
• Support supplier engagement for mechanical components and manufacturability improvements.
• Contribute to the development of the new Production Engineering team’s standards and processes.

Required Skills & Experience

• Degree (or equivalent experience) in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline.
• Experience in a production engineering, manufacturing engineering, or mechanical design role.
• Familiarity with CAD tools (e.g., SolidWorks or similar).
• Strong understanding of mechanical manufacturing methods (machining, sheet metal, injection moulding, assemblies).
• Experience designing jigs, fixtures, tooling, or mechanical test equipment.
• Practical problem-solving ability in a production environment.
• Strong documentation skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work cross-functionally in a fast-paced engineering environment.

Desirable Skills & Experience

• Experience supporting NPI from prototype through to volume manufacture.
• Knowledge of DFM/DFA principles and lean manufacturing practices.
• Experience in thermal imaging, electronics packaging, or ruggedised product design.
• Understanding of engineering change control and quality systems (ISO9001).

Personal Attributes

• Hands-on, proactive, and solution-focused mindset.
• Strong communication skills with engineering and production stakeholders.
• Comfortable working both on the shop floor and in design/development environments.
• Driven to improve processes and deliver manufacturing excellence.
• Adaptable and motivated to help shape a new team and function.

Why us?

• Opportunity to join and shape a newly formed Production Engineering team.
• A key role bridging cutting-edge R&D and real-world manufacturing.
• Collaborative environment working on advanced thermal imaging technologies.
• Career development and growth within a high-technology engineering organisation.
• Training and career development opportunities.
• Competitive salary and benefits package.