Aerodynamics Engineer
Bedford – Onsite | £30,000 – £35,000 DOE | Experimental Aerodynamics | SC Clearance Required
If you're passionate about aerodynamic performance and want to see your work put to the test - quite literally - this is the kind of role that’s becoming increasingly rare in the UK.
Why This Role?
I’m partnering with a long-established UK engineering organisation at the forefront of aerodynamic research and development. Recently backed by new ownership and fresh investment, they’re modernising their approach while staying true to what they’ve always done best: designing, testing, and refining performance-critical systems in some of the most advanced experimental facilities in Europe.
From commercial airliners to defence platforms and high-performance UAVs, this organisation supports clients from around the globe with data-driven, physical testing campaigns that make a real difference.
Now they’re looking to bring on an Aerodynamics Engineer who wants to be close to the data, close to the testing, and deeply embedded in the process of turning high-level design into real-world results.
The Role
As part of a multi-disciplinary team, you'll work across the full lifecycle of wind tunnel testing - from scoping and test design to data collection, analysis, and reporting. You’ll help lead physical testing campaigns, liaise with clients, and take ownership of technical delivery.
This isn’t a siloed desk job. You’ll be hands-on in the test facility, working closely with operations, instrumentation, design, and engineering teams to make sure tests run smoothly and data is delivered to the highest standard.
What You'll Be Doing
Define and manage aerodynamic test programmes
Lead test shifts and direct cross-functional teams
Liaise with customers to gather requirements and provide technical input
Prepare bids, oversee technical planning, and manage testing schedules
Analyse, interpret, and report on aerodynamic datasets
Maintain high standards for data quality and test rig configuration
Suggest improvements to testing methodologies and tools
Support ongoing R&D and facility upgrade efforts
What You’ll Bring
Degree (or equivalent experience) in Aerospace, Mechanical Engineering, or related field
Solid understanding of aerodynamics (transonic experience a big plus)
Strong communication and stakeholder management skills
Hands-on mindset - comfortable in both technical analysis and test operations
Able to obtain SC clearance (UK-based)
What’s In It For You?
💷 £30,000 – £35,000 salary (depending on experience)
📚 Supportive environment for personal and technical growth
🔧 Work on real-world, high-impact aerodynamic projects
🏢 Onsite at a nationally important R&D facility
🧠 Exposure to advanced test methods, measurement tools, and physical rig design
🎁 Benefits: private healthcare, pension, share scheme, 26 days holiday (rising with service), EAP, free parking