Instrumentation Engineer
On-site – Bedford | £40,000 | Aerospace R&D | Eligibility for SC Clearance Required
Tired of working on the same old projects? This is your chance to build, test, and problem-solve in one of the UK's most advanced aerospace research environments - where every wire you solder and sensor you install contributes to real-world aerodynamic breakthroughs.
The Opportunity
I'm working with a truly unique organisation at the heart of UK aerospace research. With a history stretching back decades and a newly secured investment backing its future, this independent engineering powerhouse is scaling up - with modern tooling, new technologies, and expanding headcount.
They design and test high-precision scale models of aircraft, UAVs, and other experimental hardware. If you love hands-on engineering, problem-solving, and being around complex tech - this is your playground.
The Role
You'll be part of the team responsible for installing and maintaining the custom instrumentation that makes high-speed aerodynamic testing possible. It's deeply hands-on and technically varied - one day you might be assembling delicate wiring looms, the next calibrating sensors or prepping for a new tests.
Expect real ownership, a close-knit team, and the satisfaction of building something that actually gets tested in extreme, high-performance environments.
What You'll Be Doing
* Install bespoke instrumentation on test models and rigs
* Manufacture wiring looms, solder fine components, and work to detailed wiring lists
* Calibrate and fault-find signal conditioning and DAQ equipment
* Assist in test setup and execution across several R&D facilities
* Support optical measurement systems and continuous tooling/process improvement
* Work on a shift pattern (07:00–15:00 and 14:00–22:00, weekly rotation)
What You'll Bring
* Skilled in electronic assembly, soldering, and reading circuit schematics
* Hands-on experience with DAQ systems, sensors, and signal conditioning
* Comfortable working in a physical, varied environment (including heights/confined spaces)
* Able to adapt to shift work and flexible testing schedules
* Eligible for Security Clearance (SC)
Why This Role?
* £40,000 salary
* Work in one of the UK's leading aerodynamic test environments
* Solve real technical problems with real-world results
* Join during a major phase of modernisation and growth
* Be part of a team where your input matters and your work is seen
If you're someone who thrives on technical variety, precision work, and building systems that go straight into live testing, this is a role you'll want to hear more about.
Interested?