Mechanical Engineer I

BAT is evolving at pace into a global multi-category business. Our purpose is to create A Better Tomorrow™ by Building a Smokeless World.
To achieve our ambition, we are looking for colleagues who are ready to join us on this journey! Tomorrow can’t wait, let’s shape it together!

British American Tobacco UK has an exciting opportunity for a MECHANICAL ENGINEER I in Southampton

What are the key objectives and expectations from this role?   

As Mechanical Engineer I, you will deliver mechanical engineering activities across New Category product and technology projects, including Vapour, Tobacco Heating Products and emerging reduced-risk technologies. Working within a multidisciplinary R&D team, you will support concept generation, design development, prototyping, testing and data-led decision making for components, assemblies and test fixtures. You will apply practical engineering judgement, CAD, prototyping, simulation and analysis to reduce technical risk and help deliver robust, consumer-focused product solutions.

What is the direct impact of this role on the team or organisation?  

This role contributes directly to technical quality, robustness and delivery of product and technology development. It generates engineering designs, test evidence and recommendations that inform project decisions, reduce development risk and support future product choices. The role also strengthens team capability through collaboration, knowledge sharing and continuous improvement of tools, methods and ways of working.

Your key responsibilities will include:

• Deliver defined mechanical engineering work packages across New Category product and technology projects to agreed scope, quality, timelines and standards.
• Develop concepts, CAD models, drawings, prototypes, jigs, fixtures and mock-ups to support design, evaluation and decision making.
• Apply mechanical engineering judgement to solve design and development challenges, generate novel ideas and reduce technical risk.
• Support IP-aware development by reviewing relevant prior art, identifying patent opportunities and protecting BAT confidential information.
• Plan and execute engineering evaluations, including test method development, test execution, data analysis and interpretation of results against project requirements.
• Work collaboratively with cross-functional teams, suppliers and specialist capabilities to deliver prototypes, test evidence and engineering recommendations.
• Communicate engineering findings clearly through technical reviews, reports, presentations and data management tools.
• Build technical capability through hands-on delivery, mentoring, knowledge capture and continuous improvement of team ways of working.

What are we looking for?

Experience Required

• Experience delivering mechanical design or engineering tasks within defined scope, timescales and quality expectations.
• Experience across concept generation, detailed design, prototyping, testing and design iteration.
• Experience supporting consumer product, electromechanical assembly or precision component development.
• Experience analysing test data and using evidence to inform engineering recommendations.
• Understanding of prototyping, manufacturing and assembly constraints and how they influence design choices.
• Experience working effectively in cross-functional technical project teams.

Technical / Functional / Leadership Skills Required 

• Creative and structured problem solving, with the ability to generate and develop practical engineering solutions.
• Competence in 3D CAD, technical drawings and design documentation.
• Ability to apply basic calculations, simulation or analytical methods to support design decisions.
• Awareness of intellectual property potential and the importance of protecting confidential technical information.
• Clear communication of technical work through reviews, reports, presentations and data-led recommendations.
• Strong Microsoft Office and data management capability.
• Ability to collaborate with internal and external partners, prioritise tasks and adapt to changing project needs.

Education / Professional Qualifications / Certifications Required 

• Engineering based degree / HNC-level qualification or relevant technical / design / engineering experience.

What we offer you?

• We offer a market leading annual performance bonus (subject to eligibility)
• Our range of benefits varies by country and includes diverse health plans, initiatives for work-life balance, transportation support, and a flexible holiday plan with additional incentives
• Your journey with us isn't limited by boundaries; it's propelled by your aspirations. Join us at BAT and become a part of an environment that thrives on internal advancement, where your career progression isn't just a statement – it's a reality we're eager to build together. Seize the opportunity and own your development; your next chapter starts here.
• You'll have access to online learning platforms and personalized growth programs to nurture your leadership skills
• We prioritise continuous improvement within a transformative environment, preparing for ongoing changes

WHY JOIN BAT?
We’re one of the few companies named as a Global Top Employer by the Top Employers Institute – certified in offering excellent employee conditions.

Collaboration, inclusion and partnership underpin everything we do here at BAT. We are looking forward to enabling every individual to thrive, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, marital or civil partnership status, gender reassignment, race, religion or belief, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin, disability, age, skills, experience, education, socio-economic and professional background, veteran status, perspectives and thinking styles. We know that embracing talent from all backgrounds is what makes us stronger and best prepared to meet our business goals.

We see the career breaks as opportunities not obstacles. Through The Global Returners program, we support professionals looking to restart their careers after an extended absence from the workforce (e.g. time out caring for family, parental leave, national service, sabbatical and/or starting an own venture).

Come bring your difference and see what is possible for you at BAT. Learn more about our culture and our award winning employee experience here.

If you require any reasonable adjustments or accommodations to help you perform at your best during the recruitment process, you are encouraged to notify us. We are fully committed to support you by making appropriate arrangements for you to demonstrate your full potential.