(We are supporting our client, Gazelle Wind Power, in their search for a Lead Mechanical Design Engineer, in Viana do Castelo, Portugal. Check it out)
LEAD MECHANICAL DESIGN ENGINEER
The Lead Mechanical Design Engineer is responsible for leading the design, development, and integration of mechanical systems and components for Gazelle's floating offshore platforms. This role combines deep mechanical engineering expertise with structural understanding to deliver robust, efficient, and compliant designs in a challenging marine environment. You will oversee the full design lifecycle — from concept and CAD modelling to verification, fabrication, and installation — ensuring designs meet project requirements, industry standards, and operational needs.
In addition to hands-on technical work, you will provide leadership and guidance to the mechanical engineering team, coordinate with cross-functional disciplines, and interface with suppliers, contractors, and certification bodies.
Department
Technology & Innovation
Qualification Level
Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Mechanical Engineering
Location
Portugal
Professional Experience
* 8+ years in mechanical design engineering, with at least 5 years direct experience in floating/offshore structures (e.g., floating wind, semi-subs, FPSOs, barges, spar platforms).
* Demonstrated ability to lead complex engineering projects in the marine/offshore renewable energy sector.
* Proven track record in design for manufacture, installation, and maintenance of offshore mechanical systems.
* Experience working in fabrication and construction yards, with an understanding of installation constraints.
* Familiarity with offshore codes and standards (DNV, ISO, API, Eurocode).
Specific Professional Specialization Relevant
* Expert-level CAD skills (SolidWorks, Creo, AutoCAD or similar) and proficiency in 3D modelling and drafting for manufacturing.
* Strong structural understanding, including stress, fatigue, and buckling considerations, with ability to interpret and apply FEA results (experience in ANSYS, Abaqus, or similar tools beneficial).
* Good working awareness of materials engineering, corrosion protection, and coatings for marine environments.
* Knowledge of advanced manufacturing processes, assembly methods, and GD&T.
* Programming proficiency (Python, MATLAB) for design automation or engineering calculations is advantageous.
Other Requirements
* Multidisciplinary awareness, with ability to integrate mechanical designs into larger structural, electrical, and naval architecture systems.
* Proven leadership skills, mentoring junior engineers and managing cross-disciplinary design interfaces.
* Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with ability to make sound technical decisions under time pressure.
* Excellent communication skills, with ability to represent the mechanical discipline to internal and external stakeholders.
* Fluency in English is required; Portuguese is beneficial.
Activities / Functions
* Lead the mechanical design of systems and components for floating offshore platforms, ensuring compliance with project specifications, offshore standards, and safety requirements.
* Oversee CAD modelling, drawings, and design documentation, ensuring manufacturability, maintainability, and cost-effectiveness.
* Collaborate with structural engineers to integrate mechanical systems into the overall platform design, applying structural understanding to mechanical solutions.
* Direct and review mechanical analyses, including stress, fatigue, and thermal performance, and interpret FEA results for design decisions.
* Evaluate and select materials for offshore applications, with focus on durability and corrosion resistance.
* Coordinate with manufacturing teams and suppliers during fabrication, installation, and commissioning phases.
* Manage the mechanical engineering scope within projects, including planning, resourcing, budgeting, and reporting.
* Prepare and review technical deliverables for DNV or equivalent certification bodies.
* Stay updated on emerging technologies and best practices in floating offshore mechanical design.
General Conditions
Location:
Based in our Viana do Castelo office.
Minimum 3 days per week in the office, ideally 4-5 days.
Contract & Working Hours:
Permanent contract with an initial trial period.
40-hour work week.
22 days of vacation annually.
Compensation & Benefits:
* Food allowance: €9.60 per working day (approx. €200 net per month, paid 11 times per year).
* Private health insurance.
* Significant tax reduction benefits available for both Portuguese employees and expats, subject to eligibility.
* Company-provided laptop and mobile phone
* Stock option bonus eligibility.