Mechanical Engineer (Heating Technology)

TL;DR

Mechanical Engineer (Heating Technology): Designing, building, and testing hydraulic test rigs and prototype products for next-generation heat pump systems with an accent on hands-on hardware iteration and system commissioning. Focus on integrating hydraulic components, diagnosing thermal/mechanical issues, and translating CAD designs into working physical prototypes.

Location: On-site in Slough, GB

Company

hirify.global is a leading energy company developing sustainable heating technology through its R&D Centre for Heating Technology.

What you will do

• Design, build, and commission hydraulic test rigs and prototype products that integrate with heat pumps.
• Perform hands-on assembly and plumbing of water-side and refrigerant-adjacent systems including pipework and sensors.
• Instrument rigs with measurement tools and execute structured test campaigns to characterize performance.
• Diagnose and troubleshoot hydraulic, thermal, and mechanical issues on live systems.
• Collaborate with the R&D team to iterate designs balancing performance, cost, and manufacturability.
• Produce detailed technical documentation, including test plans and design records.

Requirements

• Degree in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related discipline.
• Minimum 5 years of relevant experience in R&D, product development, or test environments.
• Demonstrable knowledge of heat pump operation and hydraulic system behavior.
• Strong hands-on experience in plumbing, pipework, and system commissioning.
• Proficiency in CAD for designing rig components and prototype parts.
• Ability to work independently on-site in Slough.

Nice to have

• Experience developing heat pump accessories like buffer tanks or DHW modules.
• Familiarity with refrigerant-side systems and safety considerations.
• Skills in thermal/fluids analysis and thermodynamic modelling.
• Experience with FEA (structural/thermal) and CFD analyses.
• Relevant trade qualifications such as F-Gas or G3 unvented hot water.

Culture & Benefits

• Hands-on R&D role at the leading edge of UK heat pump accessory development.
• Access to a well-equipped facility with the freedom to build real hardware.
• Collaborative environment that values practical engineering judgement and fast iteration.
• Competitive contract day rate.
• Unique culture promoting autonomy and co-ownership.