FEM, Design & AI/ML Optimisation Engineer (KTP Associate)

University of Derby; East Midlands; On-site; GBP 36,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

James Engineering, in the East Midlands, collaborates with the University of Derby on a Knowledge Transfer Partnership to develop the James Engineering Modelling Design (JEMD). You will integrate Eurocode‑compliant design, advanced FEM modelling and AI/ML optimisation for chimney and inlet reinforcement systems.

The role is full‑time and involves working with academic experts, engineers, and software developers to establish a simulation‑led design capability and to produce robust calculation

Qualifications

• MSc in Structural/Mechanical/Civil Engineering or equivalent qualification.
• Demonstrable experience in structural analysis and FEM modelling.
• Coding experience in Python, MATLAB or equivalent language.
• Working understanding of Eurocode-based structural design.

Responsibilities

• Lead development of James Engineering Modelling Design (JEMD).
• Apply FEM and data-driven optimisation techniques for chimney systems.
• Collaborate with academic experts from the University of Derby and software developers.
• Deliver structured technical outputs such as reports and calculation records.

Skills

FEM modelling

Python

MATLAB

Eurocode design

Technical workflows

Education

MSc in Structural/Mechanical/Civil Engineering

Tools

Python

MATLAB

Job description

Contract Type: Fixed Term for 21 months

James Engineering is a third-generation family engineering business, established over 75 years ago, specializing in structural steelwork, architectural metalwork and industrial chimney systems. The company delivers fully integrated engineering solutions through commercial, industrial, defence and energy infrastructure projects, achieving an annual turnover of £10 million. James Engineering is investing in advanced digital design to become a UK leader in chimney and exhaust-flue systems.

About the Role

In this role, you will lead the development of James Engineering Modelling Design (JEMD), an innovative software platform that integrates Eurocode-compliant design, advanced numerical modelling, and AI/ML-driven optimisation to transform the design of industrial chimneys and inlet reinforcement systems for both traditional and emerging clean-energy sectors.

Working closely with academic experts from the University of Derby, engineers at James Engineering, and specialist software developers, you will develop and apply advanced Finite Element Method (FEM) and data-driven optimisation techniques to establish a simulation-led design capability for industrial chimney systems.

date: w/c 26th October 2026

Knowledge Transfer Partnerships

This full-time post is part-funded by the UK Government’s KTP programme. A KTP is a three-way project between a graduate, an organisation and a university. KTP is one of the UK’s largest graduate recruitment programmes and has been placing graduates on challenging, high profile projects for 50 years. In addition to a competitive salary and core KTP development training, you will have a dedicated budget of £3,500 further training and career development. To find out more about the scheme visit: ktp-uk.org/graduates

Please note by completing an application form for this role, you are giving your consent for us to share your personal data with the KTP partner.

About You

We're looking for a talented, driven engineering graduate with an MSc (or equivalent qualification) in Structural, Mechanical, Civil Engineering or a related discipline, and demonstrable experience in structural analysis, design and Finite Element Method (FEM) modelling. You'll bring practical numerical simulation and coding experience in Python, MATLAB or an equivalent language, a working understanding of Eurocode-based structural design, and experience managing multi-stage technical workflows and delivering structured technical outputs such as reports and calculation records.

Important Information

This role may be eligible for sponsorship by the University.

The offered salary for this role is less than the going rate for the occupation and the minimum salary threshold for the Skilled Worker route (£41,700 per annum, as of 22nd July 2025). Therefore you will only be eligible to apply for a Skilled Worker visa subject to your individual circumstances which must meet one of the following criteria set out by UKVI:

• Your job is on the Immigration Skills List


• You’re under 26, studying or a recent graduate, or in professional training


• You have a PhD level qualification that’s relevant to your job


• You have a postdoctoral position in science or higher education

You must also meet the English Language requirement.

Please note that the University will assess your individual eligibility for sponsorship at the shortlisting stage.

For more information, visit our website.