Principal Mechanical Engineer

We’re looking for an experienced and professionally registered Principal Mechanical Engineer to join a respected engineering organisation in Chorley. This role involves leading design teams on technically complex projects, driving engineering excellence, and ensuring safe, compliant, and high‑quality design outcomes. It’s ideal for a proactive engineer who enjoys developing others, shaping engineering delivery, and fostering continuous improvement.

Location and Working Pattern

Based in Chorley, with hybrid working available. Flexibility is encouraged — time on site will depend on project collaboration requirements rather than a fixed schedule.

Client Overview

Our client is a well‑established engineering business delivering high‑integrity projects across regulated sectors. Known for maintaining exceptional technical standards, they promote a strong safety culture and collaborative working environment while supporting staff development and innovation.

Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee mechanical design teams, ensuring delivery of safe, compliant and high‑quality engineering outputs.
• Provide technical direction, supervision and support across the full engineering lifecycle.
• Plan, coordinate and monitor engineering activities against scope, budget and schedule.
• Conduct and chair design reviews, ensuring technical assurance and regulatory compliance.
• Produce design basis documentation and support the development and substantiation of design solutions.
• Ensure the application of conventional and nuclear safety principles throughout development phases.
• Mentor and coach engineers to build capability and maintain a culture of continuous professional improvement.
• Drive quality, process improvement and right‑first‑time principles in engineering delivery.
• Collaborate closely with cross‑discipline teams, procurement, manufacturing and external stakeholders.

 

Must‑have Requirements

• Professionally registered Engineer (CEng or IEng) with a minimum Level 6 qualification (Bachelor’s Degree with Honours) in a relevant engineering discipline.
• Demonstrated experience leading mechanical design teams within a safety or compliance‑focused environment.
• Strong understanding of UK engineering legislation and standards, including the Machinery Directive, LOLER, PUWER and CDM.
• Proven ability to produce and review technical documentation, design risk assessments and verification records.
• Excellent leadership, communication and organisational skills.
• Eligible for Security Check (SC) clearance.
• UK National (due to project security requirements).

 

Nice‑to‑have Skills

• Experience in nuclear or other regulated industries.
• Familiarity with UKCA / CE marking processes and conformity assessment.
• Proficiency in 3D CAD and configuration management tools.
• Experience planning engineering activities and supporting contract change management.

 

Apply Now

If this Principal Mechanical Engineer role matches your experience and leadership style, apply now or send your CV to our recruitment team today.

Due to the nature of this role being on a national security facility, we can only accommodate applications from UK Nationals.

 

About NRL
The NRL Group connect global companies with the right people to bring engineering projects to life. Supporting contracting companies with energy transition plans and working with our clients to create a cleaner, greener future.
 
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