Mechanical Design Engineer

Overview

AFECO is an engineering services provider, delivering high quality process and MEICA design and installation projects predominantly across the South of England and Midlands for the water industry. We have in-house engineering teams capable of delivering all stages of the project cycle, from concept through to commissioning, with a strong focus on process-led, innovative and robust yet appropriate solutions. We have a portfolio of varied projects covering both wastewater and clean water projects for planned and reactive works.

Due to the expansion of our team, we are recruiting for an Administrative Assistant to work within our multi-disciplinary teams. This is a great opportunity for enthusiastic individuals who fit in with our company values and are keen to develop in a forward-thinking organisation.

Job Description

Role Purpose

The Senior Mechanical Design Engineer will lead the mechanical design of water and wastewater treatment assets across the project lifecycle, from concept and detailed design through to construction support and commissioning. The role requires strong technical capability, sound engineering judgement, and the ability to mentor junior engineers while working collaboratively with multi-disciplinary teams.

Technical Design & Delivery

• Lead mechanical design activities for water and wastewater treatment projects, including pumping stations, treatment works, pipelines, and associated infrastructure
• Produce and review mechanical designs, calculations, specifications, schedules, and drawings
• Ensure designs comply with relevant standards, legislation, client specifications, and health & safety requirements
• Undertake optioneering and value engineering to balance cost, performance, risk, and operability
• Support constructability, commissioning, and handover activities

Equipment & Systems

• Specify, size, and select mechanical equipment such as pumps, valves, screens, blowers, mixers, and mechanical treatment processes
• Review supplier technical submissions and manage technical interfaces with vendors
• Assess whole-life cost, reliability, and maintainability of mechanical systems

Project & Stakeholder Interface

• Work closely with process, civil, electrical, and ICA engineers to deliver integrated solutions
• Liaise with clients, contractors, suppliers, and operations teams
• Provide technical input during design reviews, HAZID/HAZOP, and risk workshops

Mentorship & Quality

• Mentor and technically support graduate and intermediate engineers
• Review and approve work produced by others
• Contribute to the development of internal standards, best practices, and lessons learned

Qualifications & Experience

Essential

• Degree (or equivalent) in Mechanical Engineering
• Significant experience in the water or wastewater sector
• Strong knowledge of mechanical equipment used in water treatment and conveyance
• Experience delivering designs through concept, detailed design, and construction stages
• Familiarity with relevant standards (e.g. ISO, BS, EN, WIMES, client standards)

Desirable

• Experience working on regulated water frameworks
• Site experience including commissioning or construction support
• Knowledge of asset management and whole-life cost analysis
• Experience with NEC or other engineering contracts

Technical Skills

• Mechanical design and specification
• Pumping system design and hydraulics (desirable)
• Design risk assessment and CDM compliance
• 2D/3D CAD tools (e.g. AutoCAD, Solid Works)
• Engineering calculations and reports

Salary and benefits

• Salary TBC
• Medicash plan
• Life insurance
• Benefits portal
• Company pension
• 25 days holiday (plus bank holidays)