Job Description

Job Overview

Product Development Engineer - Military Systems

We are seeking a skilled, creative and hands-on

Product Development Engineer

to join our team. This role will focus on both the modification of commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) products, and the design, build and refinement of new concepts / prototypes for use in R&D, prior to taking products through to production for military, defence and security applications. You will leverage your technical expertise to solve complex engineering problems and ensure that our products meet the highest standards of quality and performance in demanding environments. This is very much a practical role in a very dynamic small company where everyone wears quite a few hats.

Key Responsibilities

Modify and adapt existing COTS products for defence-specific requirements. Conduct research, prototyping, and testing of modified COTS or newly designed products. Perform system integration, including mechanical, electrical, and software modifications. Engage with cross-functional disciplines (scientific, mechanical, electrical, software, compliance, and supply chain). Ensure compliance with military standards if required (e.g. MIL-STD, DEF-STAN, or equivalent). Develop and maintain technical documentation, drawings, user guides and other records. Support lab and field trials, testing, validation and training with your products. Contribute to continuous improvement of design processes and lifecycle management. Design products being mindful of sourcing and supply chains, while thinking ahead to future production/assembly, either in-house or outsourced. Communicate simply, concisely and effectively your designs to other team members and customers with diverse alternative backgrounds and skill sets. Interact and contribute patiently and efficiently with other projects being run by other team members.

Essential skills / experience

Proof of concept design & build experience

Prototype engineering & systems integration

Product development

3D printing

Modifying COTS devices for alternative purposes (MOTS/Hacking)

Basic Electronics

General understanding of diverse materials suitability / compatibility

Problem solving & analytical skills

Eligibility to obtain

security clearance if required (e.g. UK NATIONAL)

.

Non-essential / desirable skills and experience

Electronics

Embedded computing (codewriting, hardware interfacing)

Software engineering

Systems engineering

Experience working in the defence sector (e.g. ruggedised product design)

Proficiency in CAD tools (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD) and/or electrical design software

Knowledge of materials engineering (lightweight structures, corrosion resistance, blast resistance).

Experience supporting field deployment and in-service product modifications.

Knowledge of regulatory compliance and export control frameworks (ITAR, EAR, etc.).

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Systems Engineering, or related relevant discipline (or equivalent experience).

Why Join Us

Work on cutting-edge defence engineering projects that directly support national security and enhance capability. Be part of a collaborative, high-performing technical team, supporting a niche and interesting customer group. Opportunities for professional growth, training, and career development. Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package. Friendly, flexible work environment.

About PolyCAT

PolyCAT are a small company specialising in developing decontamination tools and other scientific and engineering-based technologies for the defence, security and responder sectors. PolyCAT's patent-pending flagship technology relates to powder formulations for the catalytic detoxification of toxic chemicals, and a variety of delivery systems for a variety of scenarios and end user groups. However, our remit is far more diverse, and you will be joining a growing team with excellent reputation, contacts and networks, a successful history of winning bids and contracts, broad interests, skills and an open mind as to where the future takes us.

How to Apply

Please send your CV and a concise covering letter outlining your suitability for the role to

info@polycat.co.uk

with the subject line: Product Development Engineer Application.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: 35,000.00-65,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Casual dress Company pension Cycle to work scheme Discounted or free food Employee stock ownership plan Employee stock purchase plan Enhanced maternity leave Enhanced paternity leave Flexitime Free parking Health & wellbeing programme On-site parking Sick pay
Ability to commute/relocate:

Romsey SO51: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (preferred)
Work Location: In person

Application deadline: 26/09/2025
Reference ID: POLYCAT Product Development Engineer
Expected start date: 01/11/2025