Mechanical Engineer

Mechanical Engineer (Automation)

Reporting to:
Senior Mechanical Engineer

Location:

Reading, RG30 1DZ

Working hours:

37.5 hours, Monday – Friday

Big Sis ((Use the "Apply for this Job" box below).), 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. Big Sis 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:

• 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

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.

• 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 Big Sis’ engineering processes, tools, and methodologies to improve the efficiency and quality of the development process.
• Continuously optimizing the design to meet operational requirements, working closely with other engineering teams to solve complex challenges.

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.

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.

• 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 oriented with an ability to think outside the box
• At least 3+ years’ experience in a relevant mechanical system and subsystem component design

• 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 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 Solid Works software

• Energy, ambition and commitment to ensure the job gets done
• Honesty, integrity and openness to ensure we build a great company culture
• Flexibility to changes in priorities and adaptability to new ideas
• Out of the box…