Senex Recruitment Ltd • Whitstable, Kent

Product Innovation Engineer

About this role

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Product Innovation Engineer to support the development of next-generation mechanical products used in a niche sector designed to exceptional standards to meet industrial demands.

This hands-on engineering role focuses on the design, prototyping, testing, and development of advanced mechanical systems often tailored made to meet industrial requirments. Working as part of an international engineering team, you will help transform innovative concepts into robust, manufacturable, and compliant products that improve users everyday life.

This position would suit an engineer with a strong practical engineering mindset who enjoys product development, prototyping, testing, and solving real-world engineering challenges.

Key responsibilities for this Product Innovation Engineer job

Product Design and Prototype Development

Design and develop prototype systems and mechanical assemblies

Create and evaluate innovative engineering concepts using 3D CAD modelling, rapid prototyping, and physical testing methods.

Support product development from concept through to validation and production release.

Design, machine, and fabricate prototype components and bespoke assemblies for testing and development activities.

Contribute to the development of next-generation products.

Engineering Testing and Validation

Support physical testing activities including durability testing, load testing, validation trials, and dynamic testing.

Conduct engineering investigations, feasibility studies, and root cause analysis related to prototype and product performance.

Develop validation plans, engineering reports, and technical documentation.

Ensure products meet relevant engineering standards, regulatory requirements, and safety expectations.

CAD Design and Engineering Documentation

Produce and maintain engineering drawings, specifications, and technical documentation.

Support DFMEA, PFMEA, engineering change activities, and validation reporting processes.

Use 3D CAD software such as SolidWorks to support product and prototype development activities.

Maintain accurate engineering records and documentation throughout the development lifecycle.

Manufacturing and Product Integration Support

Work closely with production, quality, purchasing, and service teams to ensure products are practical, manufacturable, and serviceable.

Support integration and installation development activities for engineered systems and assemblies.

Assist with continuous product improvement and manufacturing support activities.

Liaise with suppliers, testing bodies, and technical partners where required.

International Engineering Collaboration

Collaborate with engineering and product development teams across international locations to align technical standards and product development activities.

Support innovation projects and contribute to engineering development roadmaps.

Participate in cross-functional engineering discussions and technical problem-solving activities.

Share ideas and contribute to a culture of continuous improvement and innovation.

Skills and experience required

Degree, HNC, or HND in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, Product Design Engineering, or a related discipline.

Experience within prototype engineering, product development, R&D, or innovation-focused engineering environments.

Strong hands-on engineering and practical problem-solving capability.

Experience using 3D CAD software such as SolidWorks.

Understanding of mechanical systems, fabricated assemblies, and engineering integration principles.

Experience supporting engineering validation and structured product development processes.

Strong understanding of engineering safety and compliance standards.

Ability to work collaboratively within engineering and cross-functional teams.

Ability to manage multiple engineering projects and priorities simultaneously.

Innovative mindset with a passion for engineering development and continuous improvement.

Passion for developing products that improve the quality of life for users.

Salary and benefits

Competitive salary dependent on experience. (Contact the team here at Senex Recruitment to discuss your requirements)

40 hr week plus 25 days holidays plus bank holidays

Benefits including pension

Opportunity to work on innovative engineering and product development projects.

Hands-on engineering role with real involvement in prototype development and testing.

Collaborative and supportive engineering environment.

Opportunity to contribute to products that positively impact users and improve accessibility.

Ongoing training and professional development opportunities.

Future opportunity to mentor and supervisor Junior Design Engineers

Apply for this Product Innovation Engineer job

If you are a hands-on engineer with experience in product development, mechanical design, prototype engineering, or R&D and are looking for an opportunity to contribute to innovative engineering projects, apply today.

To discuss this role in confidence or to back up your application with a personal introduction, contact Kevin McHugh at Senex Recruitment by calling 01424 211872, or apply here on the Senex Recruitment website.