Senior Mechanical Engineer – Climate Systems
About Tree Associates Ltd
At Tree, we build breakthrough climate technologies that deliver real, measurable decarbonisation where it matters most — in energy, infrastructure, and industry.
Our work spans:
● Energy storage (AirBattery)
● Carbon capture (CCUS)
● Refrigeration efficiency
We are guided by five foundational values:
● Intergenerational Responsibility — Acting urgently to protect future generations
● Accountability to the Planet — Owning real emissions reduction outcomes
● Relentless Problem-Solving — Tackling root causes, not symptoms
● Global Collaboration — Working across borders and disciplines
● Transparency & Measurable Impact — Letting data, not claims, speak
We are now strengthening our core engineering team with a senior systems engineer who will help take climate hardware from concept to commercial reality.
The Role
As Senior Engineer – Climate Systems, you will play a hands-on, delivery-critical role in the design, modelling, prototyping, and first-of-a-kind (FOAK) demonstration of Tree’s climate hardware.
Reporting to the Head of Climate Engineering & Technology, you will work across Tree’s core technology platforms — CCUS, AirBattery, and refrigeration systems — applying advanced thermodynamics, system modelling, and practical engineering to deliver deployable, validated climate solutions.
You will take technical ownership of major subsystems and work packages, contributing directly to Tree’s FOAK carbon capture deployment for an industrial partner in Ukraine, while supporting the maturation of Tree’s broader modular decarbonisation portfolio.
This role suits a senior engineer who thrives at the interface of theory, hardware, and real-world constraints — and who wants to see their work operating in the field, not sitting on a slide deck.
Key Responsibilities
1. Climate Systems Engineering
● Lead the design and optimisation of thermodynamic and mechanical subsystems across CCUS, AirBattery, and refrigeration platforms
● Translate modelling outputs into robust, buildable system architectures
● Apply first-principles thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and systems thinking to maximise efficiency and emissions impact
2. FOAK Delivery & Deployment Support
● Take technical ownership of defined systems and work packages within Tree’s FOAK CCUS deployment
● Support design finalisation, procurement, build, commissioning, and performance validation
● Work closely with partners, suppliers, and internal teams to ensure systems perform as intended in challenging industrial environments
3. Prototyping & Experimental Validation
● Develop CAD designs and support hands-on prototype and pilot builds
● Design and execute experimental test plans, instrumentation strategies, and validation campaigns
● Analyse real-world data and feed learnings back into iterative product improvement
4. Emerging Technology Development
● Contribute to early-stage technology workstreams through structured modelling, prototyping, and testing
● Support de-risking of new product concepts using systems engineering and experimental evidence
5. Technical Collaboration & Mentorship
● Work collaboratively across mechanical, electrical, controls, and commercial teams
● Support and mentor junior engineers through example, review, and shared problem-solving
● Uphold Tree’s culture of practical execution, scientific rigour, and delivery focus What We Offer
Competitive Salary: Highly competitive salary depending on experience.
Work-Life Balance: 25 paid days off per year and hybrid working arrangements.
Professional Growth: Opportunities for continuous learning and development, including attending conferences and workshops.
Pension and Benefits: Pension contributions and a share option scheme, ensuring the right candidate participates in the value they help create.
Inclusive Culture: A diverse and inclusive workplace where your ideas are valued and your contributions make a real impact.
Ideal Candidate Profile
Essential
● PhD or equivalent experience in mechanical engineering, thermal systems, energy systems, or fluid dynamics
● Strong track record in thermodynamic system modelling and multidisciplinary hardware design
● Proven hands-on experience with prototyping, testing, and real-world system validation
● CAD proficiency with the ability to take concepts from model to physical build
● Delivery-focused mindset with excellent technical communication skills
● Strong alignment with Tree’s mission, values, and climate impact focus
Desirable
● Experience in decarbonisation, energy transition, or industrial climate hardware
● Familiarity with carbon capture, compressed air energy storage, or refrigeration systems
● Exposure to industrial process decarbonisation (e.g. cement, manufacturing, energy infrastructure)
● Experience supporting FOAK or pilot-scale industrial deployments
● Experience working within grant-funded R&D programmes and transition to commercial deployment
Location
Location: Hethel, Norfolk (with flexible remote working)
Reporting to: Head of Climate Engineering & Technology
Salary: Competitive, with equity participation
Why Join Tree?
● Deliver tangible climate impact, not hypothetical solutions
● Work directly on FOAK systems that will operate in the real world
● Own meaningful technical responsibility without excessive hierarchy
● Be part of a values-led, deeply technical team focused on execution and honesty
What We Offer
● Competitive salary package
● Employer pension contributions
● Eligibility for EMI share option scheme (subject to qualifying conditions)
● Flexible hybrid working (Norwich / Hethel base)
● 25 days annual leave plus public holidays
● Relocation support and UK visa sponsorship for exceptional candidates
How to Apply
Interested candidates are encouraged to submit their CV and a cover letter detailing their relevant experience and why they are passionate about joining Tree Associates Ltd .
