Design Team Lead

Rolls-royce; Long Eaton; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading aerospace and energy company is seeking a skilled Technical Lead or Subject Matter Expert on Gas Turbine Test Rigs for a permanent role in Derby. The successful candidate will lead the technical execution of projects and guide the design of mechanical structures and systems. A Bachelor's degree in Aeronautical or Mechanical Engineering along with extensive experience in gas turbine rig design is essential. This role offers an opportunity to work on innovative projects in a collaborative environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or higher in Aeronautical or Mechanical Engineering.
• Experience with Gas Turbine Rigs from concept to installation.
• Proven experience in design and development of test rigs.

Responsibilities

• Lead demonstration rig projects from requirements gathering to delivery.
• Guide design of mechanical structures and fluid systems.
• Oversee compliance of technical documentation with aerospace standards.

Skills

Gas Turbine Rigs expertise

Mechanical CAD design

Troubleshooting and root-cause analysis

Aerospace standards knowledge

Education

Bachelor's degree in Aeronautical Engineering

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

CAD software

Job description

Overview

Our client is a global leader in innovative energy and aerospace turbomachinery, specializing in the development of next‑generation gas turbines. With a strong commitment to engineering excellence and sustainability, they are seeking a skilled Technical Lead or Subject Matter Expert on Gas Turbine Test Rigs to join their team in Derby for a permanent role.

Responsibilities

• Lead the technical execution of demonstration rig projects from requirements gathering to final delivery, ensuring performance, safety, and quality targets are met.
• Guide the design of mechanical structures, fluid systems, electrical/electronic controls, and instrumentation for rigs.
• Oversee and review CAD models, analysis models, detailed drawings, wiring diagrams, assembly instructions, and BOMs to ensure compliance with relevant aerospace standards and customer specifications.
• Provide leadership and/or support for build, commissioning, and troubleshooting of rigs on‑site or at customer locations.
• Manage technical documentation, including design reports, validation plans, and test procedures.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or higher in Aeronautical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a relevant technical degree.
• Must have experience of Gas Turbine Rigs from concept to design to installation for the whole engine.
• Proven experience in modelling and drafting complex gas turbine components.
• Proven experience in the design and development of rotating machinery test rigs or ground support equipment.
• Proficient with mechanical CAD design, analysis methods, manufacturing, assembly, and instrumentation.
• Ability to lead troubleshooting and root‑cause analysis during commissioning and test phases.
• Familiarity with AS9100, ISO 9001, or similar quality systems is preferred.