Sensor & Data Engineer
Role type: On-site with flexible working options
We are a small, hands-on team, so this role is primarily workshop-based, but we are open to flexible hours and occasional remote work where possible.
Location: StirLight, Holmewood, Chesterfield, S42 5UZ
Hours: Full-time
Starting: From 1st September 2025
Salary: £28-£35k depending on Experience
Do you want to help shape the future of intelligent, low-carbon manufacturing and see your work deployed in real-world aerospace and automotive projects from day one?
About StirLight
At StirLight, we are experts in Friction Stir Welding (FSW) – a solid-state joining process used in the aerospace, automotive, and energy sectors amongst others. But we are not just a welding company. We are building the next generation of data-driven manufacturing systems, combining deep domain expertise with sensor technologies, real-time quality control, and applied AI.
We work hands-on with industrial partners and lead collaborative government funded R&D projects. From developing new welding techniques for exotic metals to creating intelligent sensing systems that unlock new quality assurance methods, we are at the frontier of applied engineering.
The opportunity
We are looking for a Sensor and Data Engineer to help shape the future of data-driven manufacturing. In this role, you will join a small, fast-moving team building real-time sensing and quality control systems for advanced welding processes.
You will work directly on embedded sensor systems, experimental test setups, and live data acquisition, contributing to collaborative R&D with leading academic and industrial partners. From integrating sensors to building edge data pipelines, you will get stuck into technical challenges with real-world impact.
Whether you are a recent graduate or have gained practical experience through research or industry, you’ll be supported to grow through mentorship, experimentation, and exposure to StirLight’s pioneering work in Friction Stir Welding and intelligent manufacturing.
Duties & Responsibilities
- Design and build embedded sensor systems
- Integrate sensors (force, temperature, vibration, acoustic) into experimental rigs
- Write scripts or embedded code to log and manage sensor data
- Assist with trial execution, data collection, and result documentation
- Support engineers in structuring and interpreting test data
- Participate in collaborative R&D projects
Key Skills & Attributes
- MEng / BEng in Mechatronics, Computer Systems, Electronics or related field
- Experience with sensor integration and embedded hardware
- Comfortable with Python / MATLAB for basic signal processing
- CAD literacy
- Self-starter who is curious, organised, and values hands-on learning
Nice to Have
- Exposure to quality control, manufacturing systems, or experimental physics
- Experience with edge data pipelines or real-time control
- Experience integrating and training ML models with data pipeline
Right to Work
Candidates must have the legal right to work in the UK. We are currently unable to sponsor visa applications.
Our Corporate Values
At StirLight, we are building more than advanced welding technology, we are building a company culture we are proud of. These are the values that guide how we work, who we hire, and how we grow:
Precision Matters
From weld quality to data logging, we take pride in doing things right. Accuracy builds trust and we don’t cut corners.
Own the Outcome
We are a hands-on team. Whether prepping a weld or writing a grant, we step up, take responsibility, and deliver.
Build with Curiosity
We test, tweak, and improve. No ego, no over-engineering, just thoughtful problem-solving and a drive to learn by doing.
Clear, Kind, and Collaborative
We speak plainly, listen well, and treat people with care. Whether working with teammates or partners, we value transparency, shared learning, and trust built through respectful collaboration.
Design for Impact
We are committed to sustainable engineering that reduces environmental impact, supports long-term thinking, and helps our clients reach their net zero goals.