About the role We are seeking a Product Design Engineer to join our R&D team, based in Shefford, Bedfordshire. In this role, you will take responsibility for designing innovative, high-performance water management products that meet industry standards and exceed customer expectations. You ll work collaboratively with cross-functional teams, turning concepts into functional products through creativity, technical knowledge, and rigorous testing. In this role you will : Design and develop new water management products from concept to production, ensuring technical feasibility and compliance with industry standards. Utilise CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD) to create detailed 2D and 3D models of components and systems. Perform engineering calculations, simulations, and stress analyses to validate designs. Collaborate closely with manufacturing, testing, and quality assurance teams to ensure seamless product development and deployment. Conduct product testing and support prototype development, leading the design refinement process. Analyse customer feedback, market trends, and competitor products to identify new opportunities for innovation. Support continuous improvement initiatives by redesigning existing products for enhanced performance, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability. Ensure compliance with all relevant safety, environmental, and industry regulations. You will be office based at our Head Office in Shefford, Bedfordshire, however, this role will also come with the option of hybrid working patterns with a minimum of 3 days in the office. HOW TO APPLY - Applications should be made online via our recruitment portal only and a design portfolio must be submitted via email to ledwardsaco.co.uk at the time of application. CVs emailed directly will not be considered. About you Ideally you will have: Degree in Product Design is highly desirable. A degree in Mechanical Engineering would be considered if candidates have a proven track record in product design. Proven track record in product design ideally within the construction sector, particularly if the relevant degree is not held. Experience with a range of materials, including concrete, plastics, steel fabrication, and iron castings, is highly desirable. 3D design experience is essential SolidWorks proficiency preferred. Strong proficiency in relevant software tools and applications. Excellent communication, presentation, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to articulate design ideas clearly. Outstanding organisational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritise tasks and meet deadlines. Self-motivated and capable of working independently, with a strong desire to achieve goals and contribute to the company's aspirations. Results-driven with a strong focus on delivering high-quality outcomes. Personable, persuasive, and influential, with a natural ability to build relationships. Effective collaboration skills, able to work well with cross-functional teams and stakeholders. If you do not meet all of the above requirements but feel your background, experience, skillset and attitude is transferrable please do apply. We are unable to accept applications from previous candidates. We offer We offer a collaborative and inclusive work environment, extensive training, opportunities for career progression and a competitive benefits package, which includes: Competitive salaries Hybrid working Private Health Care Up to 28 days annual leave, plus Bank Holidays Personal pension schemes with high employer contributions Company car & car cash schemes (for applicable roles) Employee Assistance Programme plus much more Full details of the job role are available in the role description attached. Please note that we are not able to support sponsorship requirements for this role at this time. About us ACO is a global leader in designing and manufacturing sustainable drainage systems. ACO Technologies plc, part of the ACO Group, serves as the Company for the UK & Ireland. There are two major divisions: ACO Water Management and ACO Building Drainage With a strong commitment to environmental responsibility and innovation, ACO provides advanced solutions for managing surface water, ensuring efficient and safe water flow in various applications. Our expertise spans across multiple sectors, including commercial, industrial, residential, and infrastructure projects, where we continually strive to improve water management and protect natural resources. Working at ACO is working in a culture of entrepreneurial spirit, innovation and high standards with the freedom to create your own job satisfaction through ownership and continuous improvement. Openness and honesty are key characteristics to working at ACO as this creates a friendly, flexible environment where colleagues are keen to share information and work together to achieve the best results. Equality, diversity, and inclusion Equality, diversity, and inclusion holds significant importance to us; we have a culture of belonging. We are committed to enhancing the diversity of our workforce to ensure we can provide the best service possible for everyone. Beyond your professional background - we re interested in your individuality and your future potential. If there are specific adjustments needed in our recruitment process that would help you to be your best, please speak to our team and they ll be happy to help.