Work with us

Actuation Lab is defining a new global standard for mechanical design to increase the efficiency, reliability, and sustainability of every mechanised industry.

We are a group of modern-day inventors using origami-inspired mechanisms, the latest materials, and rapid manufacturing tools to rethink the world’s mechanical systems.
We aim to become the UK’s foremost innovator of industrial hardware, building a company that attracts and nurtures world-class talent.
We are proudly based in the tech hub of Bristol, in the southwest of the UK.

Our 3 top values are:

  • think big;
  • support personal growth;
  • create more sustainable industries.

The company will double in size this year, and we are looking for passionate individuals who are prepared to grow with the company to join our team.
If you think you want to work with us but are unsure if you meet all the required criteria of a specific job, we are still happy to hear from you, as new roles are being created all the time.

As detailed at the end of each job description below, we require all applicants to submit a cover letter and CV to contact@actuationlab.com to apply.

R&D Engineer – E006

Start-up Business Development Manager – B001

R&D Engineer – E006

Full-time position (40h/week)

Job Overview

A role for an individual who is prepared to stretch themselves and adapt quickly through an exciting stage of early company growth. We are looking for a full-time R&D Engineer to work directly with the founding team, helping to take new products from concept to deployment. This is a diverse role, that will involve a variety of tasks ranging from researching new technologies to making and testing prototypes.

The successful applicant will be provided with development opportunities to grow technically and professionally as the company scales. This will include training, in areas such as valve technology and composite material design/manufacture, as well as opportunities to attend and present at international trade shows and conferences.

Actuation Lab embraces flexible working practices, while also believing in fostering a strong company culture through team interaction and group events. A successful applicant will be expected to spend most of their time working on site with the team in Bristol. Actuation Lab currently operates out of the Bristol and Bath Science Park in Emersons Green, but will relocate within Bristol in Q3 2023. In addition, the role will require occasional travel, both national and international.

Principal Responsibilities and Duties

As a key member of the team, you will be called upon to use your hands-on engineering experience to help solve practical problems encountered in the development of future products. We are looking for a ‘maker’, who can rapidly design, build, test and iterate new concepts, often doing so independently.

As an excellent communicator, you will have strong ability to document your work, and will regularly be given the opportunity to communicate your findings internally and to external stakeholders. You will be empowered to engage with key suppliers and manufacturers, building strong relationships with the engineering supply chain. Your work will lead you to develop a deep understanding of standards and certifications in the process and energy industries, allowing you to help guide the development of products that are ready for industry adoption.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Experience

  • Knowledge of FDM 3D printing
  • Practical experience in the design, build and testing of mechanical hardware
  • Ability to research complex new topics and communicate findings to colleagues 

Desired Knowledge, Skills and Experience

  • Experience in Computer Aided Design and Simulation
  • Experience in the design and execution of empirical experiments, data capture and data analysis
  • Experience of trouble shooting and optimising FDM 3D printing
  • Knowledge of industrial valves and actuators

Minimum Qualifications

Degree in Engineering or Science

Starting salary

£32,500 – £40,000 depending on experience, reviewed annually based on performance.

Please note that this role is suitable to high calibre graduate candidates.

Other perks

Cycle to work scheme, we pay your professional membership (e.g. IMechE), £500 yearly training budget, Employee Assistance Programme (Health Assured), EMI share options scheme coming soon, regular team-building events, generous refreshment budget.

HOW TO APPLY

To apply, please email CV to contact@actuationlab.com quoting reference [REF E006] in the subject. Please include a portfolio showing some past work if possible.

Applicants meeting the initial requirements may be asked to perform an exercise demonstrating their ability to solve hardware development challenges. We’d expect this exercise to take up 1-2 evenings over a couple of weeks (this time frame can be flexible).

Applicants must have the right to work in the UK.

Start-up Business Development Manager – B001

Full-time position (40h/week)

Job Overview

We are looking for a Business Development Manager to report directly to the CEO to support company growth. We are looking for a candidate who is motivated to develop a deep understanding of Actuation Lab’s values, ambitions, and technology potential, and formulate ways to communicate these to a broad range of stakeholders including businesses, government and the general public. As well as outward facing activities, we are looking for an individual who can perform in depth market research to help us map out supply chains, validate our manufacturing routes and define the route to market for current and future products. Your work will directly lead to technology trials and sales.

We are looking for someone who has outstanding interpersonal skills, can think critically, produce concise and insightful reports, and can communicate the real value of complex engineering products to any audience. We are a small company that is growing rapidly and will be transitioning from product development to product sales over the next 2 years. This role will form a key part of us doing that successfully, and as the company evolves there is the opportunity to grow this role. Whilst business development experience is desired, we hire on attitude and values above all else.

Actuation Lab embraces flexible working practices, while also believing in fostering a strong company culture through team interaction and group events. A successful applicant will be expected to spend some of their time working on site with the team in Bristol. Actuation Lab currently operates out of the Bristol and Bath Science Park in Emersons Green, but will relocate within Bristol in Q3 2023. The role will require some travel, both national and international. 

Roles and responsibilities

  • Perform in depth market research to help us map out supply chains, validate our manufacturing routes and define the route to market for current and future products.
  • Work independently, or with directors and advisors to identify new business opportunities which could include development partnerships, technology trials, or sales opportunities in the UK and globally.
  • Research and write reports and presentations on business opportunities, market trends and supply chain dynamics to help guide commercial strategy. You will present the financial and environmental impact from exploiting new opportunities.
  • Manage and develop new and existing partner relationships, which include collaborating businesses, customers, supply chain, government, and academic institutions.
  • Create and attend networking and tradeshow events, being an ambassador for the company and staying up to date with new trends.
  • Contribute to grant funding applications and tenders.
  • Implement an effective CRM system.
  • Create marketing materials including information documents, pitches, videos, and press releases, ensuring brand and content consistency, sourcing external marketing support where appropriate.
  • Create content for social media, sourcing external marketing support where appropriate.
  • Work with management on developing the company marketing strategy.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Experience

  • Excellent communication and engagement skills
  • Experience working in an engineering or scientific setting
  • Previous experience in market research and business development
  • Sound understanding of business processes and CRM
  • Excellent competence in Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint

Desired Knowledge, Skills and Experience

  • Understanding of valve and actuator industry
  • Financial modelling experience

Minimum Qualifications

Degree level in relevant subject 

Starting salary

£35,000 – £45,000 based on experience and reviewed annually with performance.

Other perks

Cycle to work scheme, we pay your professional membership (e.g. IMechE), £500 yearly training budget, Employee Assistance Programme (Health Assured), EMI share options scheme coming soon, regular team-building events, generous refreshment budget.

HOW TO APPLY

To apply, please email CV to contact@actuationlab.com quoting reference [REF B001] in the subject.

Applicants must have the right to work in the UK.