Cranleigh STEM, Sustainability & SHEQ Recruitment

R&D Engineer

Cranleigh STEM, Sustainability & SHEQ Recruitment  •  Cambridge, GB (Hybrid)  •  11 days ago
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Job Description

We're partnering with an ambitious clean-tech start-up that’s developing innovative energy systems designed to improve efficiency and reduce environmental impact. As one of their early hires, you’ll play a hands-on role in shaping next-generation hardware solutions in a collaborative, fast-moving environment. If you enjoy solving real-world engineering challenges and want to be part of something impactful from the ground up, this is a great opportunity to make your mark.

About the Role

In this role, you’ll work across R&D projects that span mechanical, thermal, and electrical systems. You’ll help take ideas from concept through design, testing, and iteration—contributing to the development of hardware technology with real-world applications. This is a highly practical engineering role suited to problem-solvers with strong technical foundations and a passion for building.

Key Responsibilities

  • System & Component Design Design and refine systems and sub-systems as part of the company’s energy-efficient product development.
  • Experimental Development Plan and conduct lab and field experiments to evaluate system performance.
  • CAD & Prototyping Create detailed engineering drawings and support prototype builds.
  • Supplier & Stakeholder Collaboration Engage with technical partners to ensure requirements and quality standards are met.
  • Project Delivery Take ownership of technical tasks and, where needed, lead smaller project areas.

What We’re Looking For

  • First-Class degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or related Engineering disciplines (Master’s or PhD a bonus).
  • At least 3 years of hands-on experience in a practical engineering or R&D setting.
  • Strong problem-solving ability and practical skills, especially in experimental setups or prototype development.
  • Proficiency in CAD and awareness of manufacturing or materials processes.
  • A proactive and flexible mindset with the ability to work independently and collaboratively.

Desirable Experience

  • Familiarity with systems such as HVAC, hydraulics, or controls.
  • Experience in test instrumentation or data analysis.

Salary, Benefits & Work Setup

  • Salary £Competitive + Benefits
  • Location Cambridge, UK
  • Work Setup Hybrid working available; in-person interview required.
  • Start Date Targeting July 2025
  • Visa Sponsorship Available for the right candidate, with interview attendance in Cambridge required.

Why Apply?

  • Meaningful Impact Contribute to technologies that support more sustainable and efficient energy use.
  • Startup Experience Join a small, growing team where your contributions are valued and visible.
  • Learning & Growth Gain cross-disciplinary experience in a supportive, mission-driven environment.
  • Inclusive Culture Be part of a workplace that actively supports diversity, collaboration, and continuous learning.

If you're excited by the idea of developing breakthrough hardware in a purpose-driven start-up, we’d love to hear from you.

Cranleigh STEM, Sustainability & SHEQ Recruitment

About Cranleigh STEM, Sustainability & SHEQ Recruitment

Cranleigh STEM is a specialist recruitment partner in STEM, Sustainability, and SHEQ. We work with innovative organisations and purpose-led professionals to help solve some of the world’s most pressing challenges, from advancing clean technologies to driving scientific discovery.

We understand that progress in these fields depends on people. Our role is to connect the right individuals with the right teams, whether that’s scientists in the lab, engineers on the ground, or leaders at the helm.

🚀 Our Mission

To support innovative organisations by delivering the talent they need to grow, evolve, and make a meaningful impact in their field.

🔎 Our Core Values

Challenge

We’re comfortable working in complex, technical spaces. We approach every brief with curiosity and care, asking the right questions to deliver people who can genuinely move your organisation forward.

Collaboration

We see recruitment as a partnership. That means open communication, transparency, and shared goals, whether you’re building a team or looking for your next role.

Commitment

We take pride in the work we do. We’re committed to high standards, long-term relationships, and doing what’s right for our clients, our candidates, and the industries we serve.

💡 Our Purpose

To contribute to a more sustainable and innovative future by helping organisations in science and technology attract and retain the talent they need to grow responsibly and with purpose.

🌍 Our Reach

Headquartered in South London, we work with clients and candidates across the UK, Europe, and the USA.

🔬 Areas of Expertise

Biotechnology

Pharmaceuticals

Chemicals & Materials

Food Technology

Clean Technology

Electric Vehicles & Sustainable Engineering

If you're hiring or exploring your next move in STEM, we’re here to help.

Industry
HR & Recruiting
Company Size
1-10 employees
Headquarters
Guildford, GB
Year Founded
2001
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