Mechanical Design Engineer

Position: Mechanical Design Engineer Location: Livingston/Greater Edinburgh Area Type: Full-time SolarSub SolarSub is a start-up on a mission to allow solar panels to thrive in the sun. The company has developed a patent-pending passive cooling technology to negate the impact of overheating on solar panel efficiency and lifespan, achieving a double-digit improvement in revenue. Initially, we are deploying in the floating solar market globally, unlocking more favourable project economics.  The company has secured Pre-Seed investment and has generated interest amongst OEMs and end-users. The technology has been validated at the University of Edinburgh, with infield trials ongoing in Dubai. We are now moving to our next stage of commercialisation, setting up field trials with strategic end-users.  We are seeking a Mechanical Engineer to join our team and support us in our technical development. This role offers a chance to contribute to driving a fundamental shift in renewable energy by maximising the efficiency of solar. The role is an important early hire into an early-stage start-up, and we are seeking an individual who would relish the opportunity to execute in an entrepreneurial environment and grow in a leadership capacity.   The role will be based in Livingston/Greater Edinburgh Area on a full-time basis, initially with flexibility for virtual working, but will require an increase in in-person presence in an office and lab facility.  Role Overview You will be responsible for ensuring that SolarSub’s designs can transition efficiently from prototype to scalable production. You will be responsible for aligning product design with manufacturing standards, material specifications, and supplier capabilities.  Key Responsibilities Develop manufacturable designs aligned with DFM/DFA principles to reduce costs, mitigate risk and complexity.  Collaborate with manufacturing partners to ensure compatibility with industrial processes (framing, lamination, assembly & deployment). Conduct tolerance analysis and define component specifications.  Support cost optimisation, material selection, and supplier engagement. Create and maintain all manufacturing documentation (work instructions, BOMs, drawings, SOPs, QC procedures). Ensure end-to-end mechanical integrity and regulatory compliance across floating solar and the applicable supply chain. Produce clear technical documentation and support IP development to capture and protect future innovations.  Ideal Candidate An engineering degree in mechanical, aerospace, or other related fields. A track record of taking prototypes from mid-stage readiness to a commercially viable product that complies with customer requirements, industry standards and other stakeholder needs. Proficiency in CAD (Solidworks or equivalent) and creation/maintenance of engineering/manufacturing documentation Experience in mechanical design for production, preferably in renewable energy. Understanding of material selection, corrosion, and environmental durability.  Attributes Entrepreneurial mindset: A willingness to take initiative within the role and across the business as required.  Team Player with the ability to execute autonomously: Thriving in a high-trust environment with high personal accountability, whilst understanding the amplifying value of the skills that surround you.  Gritty and optimistic: An ability to thrive in problem-solving, taking setbacks in stride to propel the team forward. Low Ego: To underpin personal growth and contribute to creating a high-feedback environment, allowing the team to develop as a whole.  Applying: If you are interested in joining our mission, please submit your cover letter and CV using the following Google form by the 6th of January 2026.  Please note : Applicants must have the right to work in the UK. Compensation : Compensation will be commensurate with experience, with a base salary and participation in the employee share option plan.