Research Engineer - Composite Manufacturing Processes, Solihull
GKN Aerospace is reimagining air travel: going further, faster and greener! We are committed to innovation, sustainability, and protecting our planet. With over 16,000 employees across 33 manufacturing sites in 12 countries, we serve over 90% of the world’s aircraft and engine manufacturers, with sales of £3.35 billion in 2023. Join us to take your career to new heights.
Job Summary
Located in our £32m state-of-the-art Global Technology Centre (GTC) in Filton, Bristol, we are seeking Research Engineers with a background in advanced composite manufacturing process development. This role involves working on various stages of programme development, from conception to first gate, and is open to candidates at different career levels.
As a Research Engineer, you will be an integral part of the GTC technology team, focusing on developing advanced composite manufacturing processes for current and future aircraft wing applications. We seek talented individuals passionate about making a difference and aspiring to become future industry leaders.
You will apply your broad engineering knowledge and product lifecycle understanding to research tasks within TRL1-6, executing plans methodically, and communicating effectively with stakeholders.
The Programme
SusWingS is a 50% ATI-funded, Airbus-led programme focused on developing environmentally sustainable aircraft wing technologies. It aims to reduce emissions through innovative design and manufacturing processes, including single-sided fasteners, new carbon fibre materials, and advanced numerical models for structural behaviour and environmental impact assessment. The project involves collaboration with Airbus, GKN Aerospace, Cranfield University, and the University of Sheffield.
Job Responsibilities
* Understand the strategic direction of your project’s target products.
* Manage Work Package or small Work Stream budgets.
* Contribute to planning and funding proposals.
* Develop Technology Development Plans and Business Cases.
* Maintain accurate planning documentation and ensure timely delivery.
* Support or lead hands-on development tests and trials.
* Record data and results meticulously.
* Prepare high-quality technical documentation.
* Explore exploitation routes for developed technologies.
* Support stakeholder management and supply chain coordination.
* Adhere to EH&S policies and promote a safety culture.
Job Qualifications
Ideal candidates will have:
* Experience in composites; degree in Engineering or equivalent (Aerospace, Mechanical, HND, or Degree Apprenticeship).
* Knowledge of composite manufacturing methods (material cutting, layup, bagging, resin prep, tooling).
* Awareness of product lifecycle stages.
* Experience with oven/autoclave programming, resin infusion, laser ply projection, AFP/ATL, post-processing, metrology, and NDT techniques.
* Understanding of composite component/tooling design and manufacturing processes.
* Experience in RTM, resin infusion, or prepreg techniques; aerospace background preferred but not mandatory.
What We Offer
Benefits include:
* Industry-leading pension scheme (matching contributions up to 8%).
* Life assurance (8x salary).
* 25 days holiday plus bank holidays.
* Income protection, cycle scheme, employee assistance.
* A collaborative, dynamic environment with career development opportunities.
We support your career growth through training and development, with opportunities to advance within our global organization.
A Great Place to Work
We embrace diversity, inclusion, and belonging, fostering a culture where everyone can contribute. We are committed to accessible recruitment processes and encourage applications from all backgrounds. Join us in shaping the future of aerospace innovation.
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