Mechanical Engineer – CAD Design Engineer
Why SoftInWay?
SoftInWay is dedicated to driving innovation and improving the safety, performance, and lifespan of the systems powering our world. Through our industry-leading software, expert consulting services, and comprehensive training programs, we provide organizations with the tools and support needed to push technology to the next level.
We are a dynamic international engineering firm, dedicated to helping companies develop cleaner, safer, more energy-efficient technology. Through the imagination and collaboration of our team, we’ve helped organizations both large and small innovate in the energy and propulsion sectors. Together we fuel new ideas, build relationships, and support each other to help every member of our team reach their full potential.
Location: Bristol, UK
Role Overview
We are seeking a highly skilled Mechanical CAD Design Engineer with strong expertise in turbine/compressor/pump design. This position focuses on the mechanical configuration, integration, and detailed design of engine components and assemblies, ensuring robust performance, manufacturability, and compliance with aerospace standards. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience in engine architecture, combined with proficiency in CAD and the GD&T standard approach.
Responsibilities
- Develop and maintain engine architecture and component layouts for aero propulsion systems using advanced CAD tools
- Define interfaces, fits, and tolerances for rotating and static hardware, including shafts & discs, bearing supports, casings, structural frames, and other components
- Establish clearance and sealing strategies across operating conditions, accounting for thermal growth and assembly variability
- Prepare production-quality engineering drawings, BOMs, and assembly documentation in compliance with ASME Y14.5 GD&T standards
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams (strength, rotor dynamics, lubrication, manufacturing, materials, and testing) to ensure design integrity and production readiness
- Participate in design reviews, configuration baselines, and support manufacturing and engine build/test activities
Minimum Qualifications
- Master’s degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering; a Bachelor’s degree is acceptable with significant relevant experience
- 5 years of direct experience in mechanical design of aero gas turbine engines (turbojet/turbofan/turboprop) or other types of turbomachines
- Proficiency in CAD tools, preferably Siemens NX, or similar tools (SolidWorks, CATIA, or Creo)
- Strong understanding and proficiency in GD&T standards
- Strong understanding of mechanical interfaces, tolerances, and assembly practices for aero engines
- Knowledge of materials and processes for high-temperature components (e.g., nickel alloys, titanium, coatings)
- Must be able to pass a BPSS check
- This role involves access to export-controlled technology under UK export control regulations and may involve U.S.-origin data controlled under ITAR; employment is subject to meeting applicable export authorization requirements
Preferred Qualifications
- 10 years of direct experience in mechanical design of aero gas turbine engines (turbojet/turbofan/turboprop)
- Experience with PLM systems and design release processes
- Understanding of strength limitations, principles of initial component sizing, and FEA (stress and thermal) for structural integrity and thermal growth considerations
- Familiarity with airworthiness/certification requirements and AS9100 quality standards
- Experience supporting engine assembly, instrumentation routing, and test stand integration
- Familiarity with multi-spool architectures, bearing and sealing systems, and engine mounting strategies
Core Competencies
- Expertise in mechanical layout and configuration of complex rotating machinery
- Ability to manage clearances, tolerance stack-ups, and sealing strategies across operating regimes
- Strong documentation and design release discipline
- Effective collaboration with multidisciplinary teams and suppliers
Tools & Standards
- CAD: Siemens NX / SolidWorks / CATIA / Creo
- PLM: Teamcenter / Windchill
- Drafting: ASME Y14.5 GD&T
- Analysis: Ansys, NASTRAN, or equivalent FEA tools
Deliverables
- Engine configuration layouts and interface control documents (ICDs)
- Detailed CAD models, manufacturing drawings, and BOMs
- Assembly instructions and exploded views
- Design review packages and risk assessment documentation
