Lead Design/Development Engineer – Aerospace & Defence
Location: Whitstable, Kent | Salary: Circa £50,000
An established leader in aerospace and military interconnect solutions seeks a Lead Design/Development Engineer to drive the full new product introduction (NPI) lifecycle for glass-to-metal seal feedthroughs and military-grade connectors.
You will be an integral part of the design team, sharing responsibility for customer-facing new concepts, managing multiple NPI projects (typically 20 weeks in duration), and supporting parts ordering and drafting activities. The role demands strong mechanical engineering experience combined with project management skills and confident client engagement.
Key Responsibilities:
* Lead design efforts through the entire NPI process: concept, design, testing, and delivery across 30–45 projects annually within a small, focused engineering team
* Provide technical leadership and mentorship at a senior level
* Manage mechanical design and 3D modelling, producing drawings compliant with British standards and optimised for manufacturing
* Collaborate closely with customers and internal teams to develop and refine new product concepts
Candidate Profile:
* Extensive experience in mechanical engineering, with a focus on new product development in a customer-facing role
* Hands-on CAD experience creating models and drawings to British standards (e.g. BS standards) with consideration given to design for manufacturing, tolerances and machining
* Strong understanding of project management methodologies, tools, and techniques
* Experience working across the NPI lifecycle from concept through to delivery
* Eligibility to work in the UK: candidates must hold permanent residency or British citizenship (no sponsorship)
Why Join?
This role offers the chance to work in a highly innovative environment within a respected, AS9100-certified company. You will have the opportunity to influence product development, manage diverse NPI projects, and help shape cutting-edge aerospace and defence technology.
Benefits include a Group Personal Pension, Life Assurance, Employee Assistance Programme, Company Sick Pay, Cycle to Work Scheme, subsidised restaurant, and free onsite parking.
If you’re ready to take a senior engineering role with broad responsibilities in design, project delivery, and customer interaction, apply today.
This is a permanent position.