Mechanical Process Engineer
Location: Huntingdon / Cambridge
Department: Operations
About Xaar
Inkjet Innovator. Trusted Partner. Sustainable Future. Xaar is here to create a world where you can print anything you can imagine.
For more information, visit www.xaar.com.
Xaar Values:
Xaar has defined 5 values which are vital to our business; each represents an area of essential importance to us. Their existence is intended to guide difficult decisions and shape behaviour.
Creative – we push the boundaries of what’s possible
Collaborative – everyone is a partner; we help each other freely and willingly
Innovative – we always strive to constantly improve
Integrity – we deliver on our promises
Passion – we care about our technology, our products, our partners and each other
Purpose of Role:
The Mechanical Engineer is responsible for the design, development, and delivery of production jigs, fixtures, and prototype tooling to support manufacturing and new product introduction (NPI) activities.
This role requires a practical, hands-on engineer who can design, build, and iterate tooling solutions, not simply produce drawings. The engineer will work closely with Production, Process Engineering and NPI teams to improve process performance, reduce downtime, and support cost reduction initiatives.
A significant element of the role involves reactive tooling design in response to production or process issues, as well as rapid prototyping of tooling using 3D printers
Reporting Relationships:
Head of Operational Engineering & Quality
Key Internal Relationships:
· Process Engineers
· Production Team
· R&D
Key Accountabilities:
· Design, develop, and implement jigs, fixtures, and production tooling using SolidWorks
· Produce product drawings
· Translate manufacturing requirements into robust, practical tooling solutions
· Support New Product Introduction with tooling concepts and prototype solutions
· Operate and maintain 3D printers to produce prototype tooling and rapid validation fixtures
· Conduct design reviews, tolerance analysis, and risk assessments for tooling solutions
· Provide hands-on support during tooling commissioning and validation on the production floor
· Troubleshoot production issues and design corrective tooling solutions in a timely manner
· Continuously improve existing jigs and fixtures to enhance safety, quality, and productivity
· Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support cost reduction and process optimisation initiatives
· Maintain proper documentation, drawing standards, and revision control
Person Specification:
The Mechanical Engineer will have deep expertise in many of the following:
Strong practical understanding of jig and fixture design principles
Proficient in SolidWorks (3D modelling, assemblies, drawings, and design for manufacture)
Ability to produce and interpret detailed product part drawings and assembly drawings, including BOMs, tolerances, fits, and manufacturing notes
Ability to apply GD&T principles to ensure functional and manufacturable designs
Knowledge and practical experience of engineering change control processes (ECR/ECN), including design updates, revision control, documentation management, and cross-functional change approval workflows
Hands-on approach with the ability to move from concept to physical implementation
Experience operating 3D printers and understanding additive manufacturing constraints
Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to respond effectively to reactive production demands
Good understanding of manufacturing processes (machining, assembly, inspection, etc.)
Ability to prioritise workload in a fast-paced production environment
Strong communication skills and ability to work cross-functionally
Detail-oriented with a focus on robust, production-ready solutions
Experience and Qualifications:
Essential:
· Degree in an Engineering, Physics or related technical discipline
· Minimum 3–5 years’ experience in a mechanical engineering role within a manufacturing environment
· Proven track record in jig and fixture design
· Experience supporting New Product Introduction (NPI)
· Demonstrated experience in resolving production/process performance issues through tooling improvements
· Experience using 3D printing for prototype tooling or functional parts