Mechanical Design Engineer - Lab Rigs

Role Overview

The Mechanical Design Engineer (Lab Rigs) will support the design and development of laboratory-scale and pilot-scale rigs used in the production of synthetic fuels. The role is hands-on and applied: producing 3D and 2D designs, researching new components, and ensuring designs can be built efficiently by the workshop team.

The successful candidate will work across design, vendor engagement, and workshop collaboration - helping to turn concepts into practical, safe, and reliable assemblies. This is an excellent opportunity for an early-career engineer to build experience in a fast-paced, innovative environment, with a clear path to grow into larger and more complex projects.

An ideal candidate will already have demonstrable experience in this sector, be confident when liaising with diverse project teams, and be comfortable work across the varied environments that fall within this area of design.

Accountabilities and responsibilities

• Produce accurate 3D models and 2D drawings of assemblies, modifications, and components using AutoCAD/AutoPlant 3D (or transferable 3D CAD experience).

• Create bills of materials and source suitable components.

• Research and propose new products and technologies for integration into rigs.

• Communicate independently with suppliers, obtaining technical information, quotations, and recommendations.

• Perform basic engineering calculations to support design decisions.

• Work closely with in-house technicians, incorporating practical feedback and understanding fabrication/assembly constraints.

• Prepare and maintain accurate documentation including drawings, parts lists, and other relevant project information.

• Contribute to the continuous improvement of lab rigs and pilot equipment, with sustainability at the heart of all developments – delivering efficient, cost-effective design solutions.

The Nature of the Work

• Working in a start-up environment where priorities can shift quickly; adaptability and curiosity are key.
• Balancing attention to detail with pragmatic design decisions for small, experimental rigs.
• Covering a broad range of design tasks while knowing when to call on specialist support.
• The role will evolve - initial focus is on lab rigs, but strong performers will have the opportunity to progress to larger-scale pilot and production equipment.
• Being willing to contribute to other areas of the business when required, reflecting the collaborative and fast-moving nature of a start-up environment.

Scope or scale

Projects potentially with global reach e.g. US, EMEA, Australia

Team and additional roles to grow to support organisational growth

Salary and benefits

• Competitive salary aligned with experience

• Discretionary performance bonus

• Employee share option scheme

• Private medical cover, health cash plan, life assurance, critical illness cover.

• 25 Days holiday plus bank holidays

Work pattern

09.00-18.00 – 5 days per week on-site

Occasional travel to suppliers

Flexibility to support key project milestones

Job knowledge, skills and experiences

Essential

• Degree, HND, or equivalent qualification in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline.

• Experienced using CAD (AutoCAD or similar essential; 3D CAD experience transferable to AutoPlant 3D).

• Practical understanding of mechanical assemblies and fittings (ideally Swagelok or similar tubing systems).

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to confidently liaise with suppliers and collaborate effectively with diverse project teams.

• Organised, detail-oriented, and capable of independent problem-solving.

• Awareness of fabrication and assembly considerations.

Desirable

• Experience designing lab-scale rigs or test assemblies.

• Familiarity with mechanical strength, pressure, flow, or thermal calculations.

• Knowledge of instrumentation, valves, and control components.

• Materials knowledge for fluids handling (e.g., stainless steels)

Life at Zero

Zero is an ambitious, fast-paced start-up committed to creating the next generation of sustainable synthetic fuels. We operate with a Formula 1 mindset: rapid iteration, attention to detail, and teamwork at speed.

For this role, that means:

• A supportive environment for learning new tools and methods.

• The opportunity to develop from lab-scale projects into larger-scale equipment design as the company grows.

• Working closely with experienced engineers and technicians, learning practical design skills that aren’t found in textbooks.

• A culture that values curiosity, initiative, and the ability to find solutions.

• The chance to be part of an ever-growing technology that is reshaping the energy industry, while working alongside a word-class team with a shared passion for sustainable innovation.