Advanced Research Engineer – Defence, Advanced Materials & Composites
Join NCC – Innovating for Industry as an advanced research engineer specialising in high‑performance composite materials for defence, aerospace and other high‑performance sectors.
About The Role
Location: Bristol, UK
Salary: £46,355 – £58,038 DOE + Benefits
Security Clearance: Eligibility for UK Security Clearance required
Contract Type: Permanent, Full‑Time
Key Responsibilities
* Lead complex R&D programmes focussed on advanced composite materials, manufacturing processes and structural performance.
* Apply materials science expertise to develop novel fibre architectures, resin systems and multifunctional composites.
* Collaborate with industry partners, government stakeholders and academia to accelerate technology readiness and industrial adoption.
* Contribute to defence‑related innovation, ensuring alignment with UK strategic priorities and secure technology development.
* Mentor junior engineers and researchers, fostering technical excellence and collaborative growth.
* Prepare technical documentation, proposals and publications to support knowledge dissemination and future funding.
* Uphold security protocols and contribute to NCC’s defence and national security strategy.
Qualifications
* Degree, MSc or PhD in Materials Science, Materials Engineering or a related discipline.
* Strong understanding of composite materials, design, processing and performance characteristics.
* Proven track record of leading R&D projects and delivering tangible outcomes.
* Experience working in industry, preferably within defence, aerospace or high‑performance sectors.
* UK National with eligibility to obtain and maintain Security Clearance (SC).
* Excellent communication, stakeholder engagement and project leadership skills.
Desirable Attributes
* 3D textile technologies (weaving, braiding or embroidery) for composite applications.
* Advanced materials, coatings, CVD, CVI or meta‑surfaces/ meta‑materials.
* High temperature materials including ceramic composites and thermal protection systems.
* Destructive and non‑destructive materials testing.
* Experience with digital design tools, simulation software and automated manufacturing systems.
* Chartered Engineer status or working towards it.
* Awareness of sustainability and circularity in composite materials.
Benefits
Hybrid and flexible working, annual salary reviews, company‑paid private medical insurance, up to 12.5% employer pension contribution, and a supportive environment that values diversity, equity and inclusion.
Closing Date
Tuesday, 11th November 2025 (applications may be closed early at our discretion).
Diversity & Inclusion
NCC is an equal opportunities employer. We ensure all hiring decisions are made without regard to age, race, national origin, sex, disability, gender identity, religion or any other protected characteristic and we are committed to supporting flexible working arrangements.
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