Job Description
MERITUS Talent are working with one of Europe's leading defence manufacturers for the recruitment of a Mechanical Architect to join their Stevenage office on a contract basis for an initial 6 month assignment, with extensions likely. The role falls INSIDE IR35, and is paying £60 per hour via an umbrella company.
We're looking for a senior-level Mechanical Architect to join our team working on next-generation missile systems. This is a hands-on technical role, responsible for leading the mechanical architecture of complex defence products from concept through to certification.
You'll be working on projects that are critical to national defence - involving challenging design work, system integration and compliance across high-performance missile platforms.
What you'll be doing:
* Define and manage the mechanical architecture of missile systems across all variants
* Develop and own the Airframe Task Requirements Specification (TRS)
* Lead mechanical and thermal interface management across the missile
* Ensure architecture is modular and supports reuse across platforms
* Coordinate analysis and validation activities to support certification
* Interface with internal teams, subcontractors, and end customers
* Supervise engineers and manage technical delivery across your scope
* Own planning, budgeting and work statements for your area
What we're looking for:
* Degree-qualified in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering (or similar)
* Around 10+ years of experience in mechanical engineering, ideally in defence, missiles or aerospace
* Strong understanding of:
o Missile mechanical systems and airframe design
o Static and dynamic analysis
o Environmental and thermal management considerations
* Experience managing compliance evidence for certification (e.g. Certificate of Design)
* Confident leading teams, influencing stakeholders, and managing suppliers
* Able to see the big picture while managing the detail
* Willingness to travel within the UK and Europe as needed
Why join?
* You'll work on mission-critical defence tech in a highly respected team
* Flexible and hybrid working options, with every other Friday off
* Private health care, bonus schemes and strong career development support