Mechanical Engineer (Laboratory Automation)

TL;DR

Mechanical Engineer (Laboratory Automation): Maintaining and improving world-leading laboratory systems with an accent on multidisciplinary integration across mechanical, electronic, and software domains. Focus on resolving complex field issues, leading design improvements from concept to production, and optimizing system-level performance.

Location: Hybrid; based at the Melbourn site near Cambridge, UK

Company

hirify.global creates innovative products in liquid handling, sample preparation, and sample management to accelerate scientific discovery and improve human health outcomes.

What you will do

• Investigate and resolve field and manufacturing issues across the sample management product range, taking technical ownership from root cause to solution.
• Lead design changes and product improvements from concept and feasibility through to design verification and production handover.
• Act as the mechanical lead and systems integrator collaborating with electronics, firmware, software, manufacturing, and quality engineers.
• Contribute to design reviews, risk assessments, and Design for Manufacturability (DFM) activities.
• Provide technical guidance to service and applications teams on complex field issues.
• Identify and champion long-term improvement opportunities within the product portfolio.

Requirements

• Degree in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related discipline (Master's qualification is advantageous).
• Significant experience in product development for scientific instrumentation, laboratory automation, medical devices, or similar hardware.
• Strong foundation in mechanism design, thermal management, tolerancing, and DFM/DFS.
• Proficiency in SolidWorks or comparable parametric 3D CAD within a managed PDM environment.
• Proven ability to lead technical work packages or project teams, including risk management and milestone delivery.
• Must be based in or able to commute to the Melbourn site near Cambridge, UK.

Nice to have

• Experience with mechanical refrigeration systems, particularly in the -20°C to -80°C range.
• Experience with thermal analysis or FEA-based thermal modelling for complex enclosures.
• Exposure to motion control, embedded sensors, or fluidics in a product context.
• Working knowledge of safety standards such as IEC 61010 and the Machinery Directive/Regulation.
• Familiarity with automated liquid handling systems operating in the µl to nl regime.

Culture & Benefits

• Competitive salary package and annual discretionary bonus.
• Private medical insurance and a generous pension plan.
• Work within a motivated, multidisciplinary team of engineers and scientists.
• Commitment to diversity, inclusivity, and supporting diverse employee needs.