Engineer the Quantum RevolutionYour expertise can help us shape the future of quantum computing at Oxford Ionics.

View Open Roles

Mechanical Engineer (Automation)

Southcote
1 month ago
Applications closed

Related Jobs

View all jobs

Mechanical Engineer

Mechanical Engineer

Lead Mechanical Engineer – Hydraulic Systems

Lead Mechanical Engineer – Hydraulic Systems

Senior Mechanical Engineer – Site & Facilities

Senior Mechanical Engineer – Site & Facilities

Mechanical Engineer (Automation)

Location: Reading, RG30 1DZ
Working hours: 37.5 hours, Monday – Friday
Salary: Competitive

About BigSis

BigSis is a UK start-up, is applying robotics and artificial intelligence to transform the production of sterile male insects, which are used for chemical-free control of pest insects. BigSis has developed a pilot automated production line and is now focused on scaling to millions of insects per week.

We look to attract candidates who can demonstrate behaviours in sync with our company values which are:

• Spirit – Having innovation, team and fighting spirit!
• Fluid – Working in a flexible way and being open to change
• Trustworthy – Includes honesty, integrity, respect and being approachable
• Growth mindset – Learn and grows & embraces challenges
• Succeeding together – Collaborate and celebrates success together

Purpose and responsibilities

The Mechanical Engineer will join an innovative, dynamic and forward thinking team. In this role, you’ll contribute to the development of automated production systems for sustainable agriculture, playing a key role in the design, integration, and optimization of mechanical components.

Key Responsibilities:

• Component Design & Development: Take ownership of the design and development of specific mechanical components and modules within the automation system.
• System Optimization: Collaborate with cross-functional teams to troubleshoot and improve existing systems, ensuring they meet operational needs.
• Collaboration & Mentorship: Work closely with junior engineers, offering guidance and technical support to foster a collaborative environment.
• Process & Tool Refinement: Contribute to refining BigSis’ engineering processes, tools, and methodologies to improve the efficiency and quality of the development process.

About the Role:

In this hands-on position, you’ll be:

• Designing innovative mechanical systems, particularly for handling and processing insect containers within the automated production line.
• Integrating mechanical systems with electronics and software, ensuring smooth interaction between components across the processing module.
• Continuously optimizing the design to meet operational requirements, working closely with other engineering teams to solve complex challenges.

Qualifications and experience

We're seeking someone who thrives in a start-up environment and is comfortable delivering functional, "good-enough" solutions under time pressure—while continuously refining and improving the systems over time.

Essential – for the role

• 2:1 degree in a relevant engineering discipline or equivalent
• Hands-on experience designing and implementing functional mechanisms for automation and handling of small objects
• Solution orientated with an ability to think outside the box
• At least 3+ years’ in a relevant mechanical system and subsystem component design experience

Desirable experience

• Worked on systems where components needed to be designed for manufacturing and precise assembly/operating tolerances
• Design of high-speed automated material transfer systems
• Designed robust, ruggedised and precision mechanical systems for 24/7 operation with minimal down time
• General understanding and hands on experience with workshop equipment
• Completed projects using rapid prototyping technologies such as 3D printing
• Designed low power automated systems and/or equipment, e.g. animatronics, vending machines, automated food or pharmaceutical production
• Worked with stepper motors, servo motors, automatic material handling systems
• Project management skills or certification
• Designed and assembled of electronic circuits, electrical panels and/or PCBs
• Worked in an environment with hygiene and/or regulatory requirements, such as the food, cosmetics or medical sectors
• Competent with SolidWorks software

You need to be comfortable working with live insects, including spending time in the hot and humid insect rearing area. Insects and their growth cells are very small, so you need good fine work skills.

Application Process

To be considered for this role, please send a CV and cover letter explaining why you think you are the right person for this job. Please include information about your education, work experience and current salary.

BigSis is an equal opportunities employer. Applicants will be considered without attention to age, sex, race, disability, pregnancy, marital status, sexual orientation, gender reassignment and religious background.

You may also have experience in the following: M&E Maintenance Engineer, M&E, Mechanical and Electrical, Service Engineer, Mechanical, Electrical, Health and Safety, Repairs, Maintenance Engineer, Electrical Engineering, Maintenance Technician, Electrical Engineer, Mechanical Engineering, Mobile Engineer, etc.

REF-(Apply online only)

Subscribe to Future Tech Insights for the latest jobs & insights, direct to your inbox.

By subscribing, you agree to our privacy policy and terms of service.

Industry Insights

Discover insightful articles, industry insights, expert tips, and curated resources.

The Future of Artificial Intelligence Jobs: Careers That Don’t Exist Yet

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has already transformed the global job market. From data scientists and machine learning engineers to AI ethicists and prompt engineers, many roles that seemed futuristic only a decade ago are now mainstream. Yet this is only the beginning. AI is progressing faster than any other technology in history, and the UK is at the forefront of its adoption, with government strategies, academic research, and private investment all accelerating growth. As generative AI, autonomous systems, robotics, and cognitive computing expand, completely new careers will emerge—jobs that don’t yet exist, but which will soon become central to how organisations, societies, and economies function. This article explores what those roles might look like, why they will matter, and how today’s professionals can prepare for careers that are still being invented.

Seasonal Hiring Peaks for AI Jobs: The Best Months to Apply & Why

The artificial intelligence sector has transformed from a niche technology field into one of the UK's most dynamic employment markets. With AI roles ranging from machine learning engineers to data scientists and AI product managers commanding average salaries between £45,000 and £120,000, timing your job search strategically can significantly impact your success rate. Understanding when companies typically hire for AI positions—and why these patterns exist—can give you a competitive edge in landing your dream role. Unlike traditional industries with predictable seasonal fluctuations, the AI job market follows distinct patterns driven by corporate budgets, educational cycles, and technological project timelines. This comprehensive guide explores the optimal months to apply for AI jobs in the UK, helping you align your career moves with industry hiring peaks.

Breaking Into Generative AI: A Beginner's Complete Guide to Starting Your Career in 2025/26

Are you fascinated by AI tools like ChatGPT, DALL-E, or Midjourney but unsure how to turn that interest into a career? You're not alone. The generative AI revolution has created thousands of new job opportunities across the UK, and many don't require a computer science degree or years of coding experience. Whether you're a recent graduate, considering a career change, or simply curious about this exciting field, this comprehensive guide will show you exactly how to break into generative AI jobs.