Mechanical Engineer (Research) Job at Plusnet (Ipswich)

Mechanical Engineer (Research)

Plusnet

Location:
United Kingdom , Ipswich

Category:
Research and Development

Contract Type:
Not provided

Salary:

Not provided

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Job Description:

This is a technical expert role in Research and Network Strategy where the individual will apply their key expertise within a clearly defined sphere of technical knowledge to complex business issues or opportunities. The role holder actively engages with colleagues to progress new research in important technical topics and supports the realisation of business value from research and innovation outputs. For this role we are looking for someone with a mechanical engineering background that can design, rapidly prototype and develop simple and effective solutions. This role will require the successful candidate to work across a programme of work in the smart tooling and robotics space. Excellent communication skills will be required to work with project partners and develop specifications to manufacture solutions at scale.

Job Responsibility:

Applies mechanical engineering principles to develop and refine tools and devices used in physical infrastructure operations, including cable handling, excavation, and confined space access
Conducts testing and validation of mechanical prototypes in lab and field environments, iterating designs based on performance and feedback
Manages a complex Smart Tools and Robotics (STaR) research projects, ensuring alignment with and contribution to the overall maturity of the research strategy
Prototyping of new ideas, helping teams develop approaches and methods from previous experience, championing adoption of lessons learned within the team
Coordinates partnerships and engagements with downstream BT Group engineering teams to solve problems and identify trends and opportunities
Initiates and leads collaborative projects through consortia creation, proposal submission, execution and closure
Implements ways to improve working processes within the STaR area of research
Delivers and implements Field Engineering change initiatives and transformation activities that contribute to heightened customer experience
Champions and shares with team knowledge on emerging trends and changes in STaR technologies
Brings to light new field challenges based on field research

Requirements:

Mechanical Engineering Expertise: Demonstrated experience in mechanical engineering, particularly in the design and development of physical systems and tools
CAD Design Proficiency: Strong proficiency in SolidWorks (preferred) or equivalent CAD software for mechanical design, simulation, and documentation
Rapid Prototyping: Hands-on experience with prototyping techniques including 3D printing, machining, and iterative design processes
Metal Work and Fabrication: Practical skills in metalworking, cutting, and forming, with an understanding of material properties and structural integrity
Electromechanical Systems: Familiarity with integrating mechanical components with electronics, including sensors, actuators, and embedded systems for smart tool development
Technical domain expert: evidence of significant knowledge and skills relevant to Smart Tools and Robotics
Qualifications: Mechanical engineering degree (Beng/MEng), HNC/HND or strong academic record in a STEM subject and/or significant equivalent domain research experience
Expert communicator: Regularly presents to peers and managers about their research and area of technical expertise
Concept Evaluation: ability to spot relevant innovations, horizon scanning, determine relevance for the business, develop an effective conceptualisation and build trials to test the concept
Problem solving, intellectually curious, comfortable taking ownership and responsibility (MANDATORY)
Self-starter, pro-actively working with minimal guidance (MANDATORY)
Significant delivery: evidence of significant business impact through delivery of research and development
Innovative Thinker: ability to spot and identify new innovations and act to bring them in and capitalise and create value (MANDATORY)
Commercial Applicability: understanding the business case principals around relevant innovations and the real value to the business through value proposition build (MANDATORY)
Stakeholder management: evidence of managing project stakeholders across a variety of grade and seniority levels (PREFERRED)

What we offer:

10% on target bonus
BT Pension scheme, minimum 5% Employee contribution, BT contribution 10%
From January 2025, equal family leave: receive 18 weeks at full pay, 8 weeks at half pay and 26 weeks at the statutory rate
Enhanced women’s health support: including help with menopause symptoms, cancer screenings, period care and more
25 days annual leave (not including bank holidays), increasing with service
24/7 private virtual GP appointments for UK colleagues
2 weeks carer’s leave
World-class training and development opportunities
Option to join BT Shares Saving schemes

Additional Information:

Job Posted:
February 17, 2026

Employment Type:

Fulltime

Work Type:

Hybrid work

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