Lead Engineer

Matchtech; England; Hybrid; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent aerospace organisation is seeking experienced Contract Lead Engineers specializing in Air-to-Air Refuelling and Actuation Systems. This role involves leadership in the design and development of complex aerospace systems. Candidates should have a background in aerospace or regulated industries, with an engineering degree preferred. This is a fantastic opportunity to work in a dynamic environment with a hybrid working model in Wimborne, Dorset.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in mechanical, electromechanical, or systems product development.
• Background within Aerospace, Defence, or regulated industries.
• Strong knowledge of the full engineering lifecycle and systems engineering management practices.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, development, integration, and verification of complex systems.
• Plan, manage, and execute engineering activities, reviews, and project milestones.
• Collaborate with customers and suppliers to ensure solutions meet expectations.
• Oversee technical risk management and maintain design traceability.
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives within engineering processes.

Skills

Mechanical product development

Electromechanical product development

Systems engineering

Project management

Problem-solving mindset

Education

Engineering degree or equivalent technical qualification

Tools

Requirements management tools (DOORS, CRADLE)

Job description

Contract Lead Engineers – Air‑to‑Air Refuelling & Actuation Systems

📍 Wimborne, Dorset (Hybrid – 3 days onsite)

📅 Contract | £70.00/hr UMB (Inside IR35)

We’re working with a prominent aerospace organisation, currently looking to engage two experienced Contract Lead Engineers specialising in Air‑to‑Air Refuelling (AAR) and Actuation Systems. This is a fantastic chance to work on cutting‑edge aerospace technology alongside world‑class aircraft manufacturers.

Note: Preference for candidates with an Avionics background for the AAR position.

About the Role

As a Lead Engineer, you’ll take ownership of engineering activities across the entire product lifecycle – from requirements capture to system qualification. Key responsibilities will include:

• Leading the design, development, integration, and verification of complex systems
• Planning, managing, and executing engineering activities, reviews, and project milestones
• Collaborating with customers, suppliers, and internal stakeholders to ensure technical solutions meet expectations
• Overseeing technical risk management, design changes, and maintaining design traceability
• Contributing to continuous improvement initiatives within engineering processes

Your Background

We’re looking for professionals with:

• Proven experience in mechanical, electromechanical, or systems product development – ideally in roles such as Systems Engineer, Project Engineer, or Lead Design Engineer
• A background within Aerospace, Defence, or similarly regulated industries
• An engineering degree (or equivalent technical qualification)
• Strong knowledge of the full engineering lifecycle and systems engineering management practices
• Familiarity with requirements management tools (experience with DOORS or CRADLE would be a bonus)
• A proactive, problem‑solving mindset with a collaborative, solutions‑driven approach

Why Join?

This is an outstanding opportunity to play a key role in innovative aerospace programmes, working within a dynamic, supportive team environment.

Important: Candidates must be eligible for Baseline Security Clearance and comply with ITAR regulations.