Underwater Mechanical R&D Engineer - Physical Products

Underwater Mechanical R&D Engineer - Physical Products

• Full-time
• Plymouth

Helsing is a defence AI company. Our mission is to protect our democracies. We aim to achieve technological leadership, so that open societies can continue to make sovereign decisions and control their ethical standards.

As democracies, we believe we have a special responsibility to be thoughtful about the development and deployment of powerful technologies like AI. We take this responsibility seriously.

We are an ambitious and committed team of engineers, AI specialists and customer-facing programme managers. We are looking for mission-driven people to join our European teams – and apply their skills to solve the most complex and impactful problems. We embrace an open and transparent culture that welcomes healthy debates on the use of technology in defence, its benefits, and its ethical implications.

As an Underwater Mechanical R&D Engineer, you will work on innovative marine robots. You will design the mechanical architecture of the robot's different elements, participate in their prototyping, testing, and industrialization. You will work in close collaboration with electronic engineers, roboticists, and test and production engineers.

Your role will be crucial in guiding the team's choices and ensuring the consistency of technical decisions.

You will create innovative concepts and your expertise will be vital in realising robust, scalable, and cost-effective solutions that enhance the performance of Helsing's systems, directly supporting our mission to provide advanced defence capabilities.

For a better idea of what you'll be getting stuck into, check out some of our marine products over at (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below). . You can see the kind of cutting‑edge stuff we're working on, like the SG‑1 Fathom and the Lura AI system, which are all about keeping our oceans safe and secure.

Own the mechanical design of parts and full assemblies including

Ensure the energy performance and manoeuvrability of the system and, in particular, its hydrodynamics

Create design concepts based on comprehensive requirements and analytical assessments

Produce 3D and 2D documentation, ensuring the proper form, fit, and function of components

Apply the latest design and drawing standards, with a strong consideration for manufacturing aspects

Develop robust, scalable, and cost‑effective components

Define and execute validation tests for technical maturation

Create comprehensive design documentation in accordance with company guidelines and quality standards

Have several years of experience in mechatronic, ROV/AUV or ship design, ideally for underwater robotics or similar demanding applications

Have a Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, or a related field.

Possess outstanding hands‑on experience with 3D/2D CAD and PLM tools (preferably Solidworks/PDM or Siemens NX/Teamcenter)

Have proven knowledge of ASME/ISO drawing standards, mechanical design standards, and analysis capabilities for mechanical elements

Have knowledge of the constraints associated with the underwater maritime environment

Exhibit excellent written and verbal communication skills in English

Are eager to drive fast‑track developments and realize innovative solutions

Enjoy working in a fun, highly flexible environment

Note:

We operate in an industry where women, as well as other minority groups, are systematically under‑represented. We encourage you to apply even if you don’t meet all the listed qualifications; ability and impact cannot be summarised in a few bullet points.

Expertise in hydrodynamics and CFD

Have experience with ROV or AUV design and system under external pressure

Have experience with actuators (brushed and brushless motors, servomotors, magnetic coupling) and sensors used in underwater robotics or more generally in mechatronics

Helsing’s work is important. You’ll be directly contributing to the protection of democratic countries while balancing both ethical and geopolitical concerns

The work is unique. We operate in a domain that…