Head of Materials Engineering

Round-Peg Solutions; Oxford; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative aerospace company in the UK seeks a Head of Materials Engineering to lead a talented team and shape the future of aerospace materials. This senior leadership role involves overseeing the qualification of aerospace-grade materials and developing testing protocols. Candidates should have over 7 years of aerospace materials engineering experience and strong leadership skills, along with a degree in Materials Science. If you’re ready to influence the safety and efficiency of aerospace systems, apply now.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of experience in aerospace materials engineering with leadership responsibility.
• Hands-on experience in materials testing, quality assurance, and failure analysis.
• Strong cross-functional collaboration and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead, mentor, and grow a high-performing team of materials engineers.
• Oversee the selection, testing, and qualification of aerospace-grade materials.
• Develop and implement material testing protocols, batch controls, and failure analysis processes.

Skills

Aerospace materials engineering

Leadership and mentoring

Cross-functional collaboration

Materials testing

Quality assurance

Education

Degree in Materials Science or related field

Job description

Head of Materials Engineering

Are you ready to take the lead in shaping the future of aerospace materials? An innovative and fast-growing company at the forefront of Aerospace Manufacturingis seeking a Head of Materials Engineering to drive innovation, performance, and safety in advanced materials for cutting‑edge aerospace technology.

As Head of Materials Engineering, you will :

• Lead, mentor, and grow a high-performing team of materials engineers.
• Oversee the selection, testing, and qualification of aerospace‑grade materials — including composites, metals, polymers, adhesives, and coatings.
• Develop and implement material testing protocols, batch controls, and failure analysis processes.
• Partner with design, manufacturing, and supply chain teams to optimise materials and ensure robust production processes.
• Manage supplier relationships, audits, and compliance with aerospace standards (CAA, FAA, EASA).
• Keep ahead of industry advances to inform strategic decisions.

This is a senior leadership role where your expertise will directly influence the safety, efficiency, and manufacturability of pioneering aerospace systems.

As Head of Materials Engineering you will bring :

• 7+ years of experience in aerospace materials engineering, including leadership responsibility.
• A proven track record in coaching and developing engineering teams.
• In‑depth knowledge of aerospace materials and their behaviour.
• Hands‑on experience in materials testing, quality assurance, and failure analysis.
• Strong cross‑functional collaboration and communication skills.
• A degree in Materials Science (or related field) — Master’s preferred.
• A UK driving licence and ability to travel.
• Desirable but not essential : Experience certifying materials for aerospace use.

Why Join the business as Head of Materials Engineering?

This is a rare opportunity to play a pivotal role in the future of aerospace, leading a talented team and shaping how advanced materials are developed and applied in Aerospace technology. You’ll have influence across design, manufacturing, and supply chain functions.

If this sounds like an interesting job to you, please get in touch asap.