Senior Engineer: Robotics/Mechatronics

Location : Leeds (Hybrid/On-site)
Company : AssetCool
Type : Full-time

About AssetCool

AssetCool is a rapidly growing startup in the Transmission and Distribution sector with state-of-the-art power line coating robots. Our world leading technology can increase the capacity of overhead power lines by up to 30%, at only 5% of the cost of rebuilding infrastructure. By addressing grid congestion, our solutions play a critical role in the energy transition and the delivery of sustainable power systems globally.

Our innovative technologies enable in-situ application of coatings and other solutions to reduce power losses, manage noise, and extend asset lifespan. With multiple large-scale projects across the UK, Canada, and Europe, we are scaling rapidly to meet increasing market demand.

We are looking for a Senior Engineer’s in Robotics/Mechatronics across the following areas:

• Senior Mechatronic Engineer - Innovation. Continue facilitating an ambitious and aggressive R+D program.
• Senior Mechatronic Engineer - Product Design: The design, ruggedization, and manufacturing optimization of existing concepts/systems.
• Senior Mechatronic Engineer - Field Deployments: Deploying the robotic systems in the field. Working closely with production to improve systems and work in the field to deploy them.

When applying for the role, please add a cover letter providing a summary of your experience and which role you wish to apply for.

Key Responsibilities (Across Multiple Roles, R+D Engineers, Product Design Engineers and Field Deployment)

1. Technical Skills for Product Development and R+D

• Mechatronics Development

o Expertise in designing mechatronic systems, integrating mechanical, electrical, and software components.

o Experience with CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, CATIA, Fusion 360) for mechanical design.

• Control Systems & Robotics:

o Knowledge of PID control, state-space control, adaptive control, and model predictive control.

o Experience in designing and implementing robotic systems, including serial and parallel manipulators.

• Embedded Systems & Programming:

o Proficiency in embedded programming using C/C++, Python, and MATLAB/Simulink.

o Experience with microcontrollers (e.g., STM32, Arduino, Raspberry Pi) and real-time operating systems (RTOS).

• Electronics & Circuit Design:

o Understanding of power electronics, motor control, and PCB design (e.g., Altium, KiCad).

o Familiarity with sensors, actuators, and signal processing.

• System Integration & Prototyping:

o Hands-on experience with integrating mechanical and electronic components into functional systems.

o Familiarity with rapid prototyping methods such as 3D printing, laser cutting, and CNC machining.

• Machine Learning & AI (Desirable):

o Experience in AI applications for robotics (e.g., computer vision, reinforcement learning).

o Knowledge of machine learning frameworks like TensorFlow, PyTorch, or OpenCV.

2. Final Product Design & Development

• Take prototypes from the R+D team and finalise the products ready for deployment in the field.
• Lead the mechanical and enclosure design of robotic systems, ensuring robustness, durability, and weatherproofing for outdoor/utility environments.
• Optimize weight, size, and form factor while maintaining structural integrity.
• Develop sealed enclosures and housings to achieve required IPX (waterproofing/dustproofing) and IK (impact resistance) ratings.
• Select materials for mechanical durability, corrosion resistance, UV stability, and temperature tolerance in harsh conditions.
• Work closely with electronics engineers to ensure PCB and wiring layout are protected against environmental factors including achieving EMI compliance as necessary.

3. Design for Manufacturing (DFM) & Production Coordination

• Design components and assemblies for cost-effective, scalable manufacturing, considering machining, injection moulding, sheet metal fabrication, and additive manufacturing.
• Create detailed 3D CAD models, engineering drawings, and tolerances for production.
• Develop and maintain Bill of Materials (BOMs), ensuring supply chain compatibility and cost efficiency.
• Work with suppliers and manufacturers to ensure components are fabricated to specification.
• Identify assembly efficiencies and minimize part count to streamline production.

4. Testing & Certification

• Develop and execute environmental stress tests, including thermal cycling, vibration, impact, and ingress protection (IP) validation.
• Work with third-party labs for CE, UL, IEC, and other regulatory certifications.
• Perform root cause analysis on failures and iterate designs for improved reliability.
• Implement ruggedization techniques such as coatings, conformal protection, and shock isolation.

5. Manufacturing & Assembly Support

• Support prototype builds and first-article inspections, ensuring compliance with design intent.
• Work with production engineers to refine assembly processes and tolerances for mass production.
• Troubleshoot manufacturing defects and assembly challenges, implementing corrective actions.
• Required Skills & Experience (Not all essential, depending on role)
• Degree in Mechatronics, Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Product Design Engineering, or related field.
• 10+ years of experience in product design, ideally in robotics, industrial automation, or ruggedized electronics including PCB design.
• Expertise in CAD design (SolidWorks, Fusion 360, 3D Modelling or similar), including surface modelling, simulations, assemblies, and technical drawings.
• Strong understanding of DFM/DFA principles and experience designing for CNC machining, injection moulding, and sheet metal fabrication.
• Knowledge of material selection for corrosion resistance, impact protection, and weatherproofing.
• Familiarity with structural analysis (FEA), thermal management, and vibration testing.
• Experience in producing and managing BOMs, technical documentation, and engineering change orders.
• Ability to work in cross-functional teams, collaborating with electrical and software engineers.
• Experience coordinating with suppliers, manufacturers, and certification bodies.

Why Join AssetCool?

• Work on groundbreaking technology revolutionizing the power grid.
• Fast-growing startup with significant industry traction and large-scale projects.
• Hands-on role with direct impact on product development and manufacturing.
• Collaborative, innovation-driven team with exciting career growth opportunities.
• Competitive salary, benefits, and flexible work options.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: £50,000.00-£75,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Company pension

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday

Work authorisation:

• United Kingdom (preferred)

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Leeds LS10 2EU

Expected start date: 01/05/2025