Lead Engineer - Armoured Vehicles

ZipRecruiter; Coventry; Hybrid; GBP 45,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player in armoured vehicle technology is seeking a Lead Engineer to oversee innovative projects that protect lives. In this pivotal role, you will lead the design and development of critical components, ensuring high standards of performance and safety. Your expertise in 3D CAD tools and engineering principles will drive the success of cutting-edge solutions. If you're passionate about making a real-world impact in defence and aerospace, this opportunity is perfect for you. Join a forward-thinking team dedicated to delivering lifesaving solutions and shaping the future of armoured vehicle technology.

Benefits

Discretionary Half Year Bonus

25 days Holidays + 8 Bank Holidays

Paid leave for Reservists and Cadets

Pension Scheme

Life Cover – 3x base salary

BHSF Cash Healthcare Plan

Qualifications

• Degree in Mechanical Engineering or relevant experience required.
• Proficient in 3D CAD tools with full lifecycle engineering experience.

Responsibilities

• Lead engineering delivery for projects ensuring requirements are met.
• Manage BoM, CAD models, and drawings for data accuracy.

Skills

3D CAD Tools (SolidWorks, Creo)

Project Management

Material Selection

Engineering Design

Collaboration with FEA Engineers

Education

Degree in Mechanical Engineering

Chartered Engineer (CEng)

Tools

SolidWorks

Creo

PLM Software (Windchill)

ERP Systems (QAD, SAP)

Job description

Job Description

Job Title: Lead Engineer - Armoured Vehicles

Reports To: Chief Engineer

Department: Composite Armour Systems (CAS)

Location: Coventry, UK

Core Hours: 08:00-16:35 (Mon – Thu), 08:00-15:10 (Fri)

Vacancy Type: Permanent, full-time, on-site with potential hybrid working subject to operational needs.

Salary: £45,000-£55,000 (dependent on experience)

JOB SUMMARY

Drive Innovation. Deliver Protection. Make an Impact.

Are you ready to lead cutting-edge engineering projects that truly make a difference?

At NP Aerospace, we design and deliver world-class armoured vehicle platforms that protect lives in demanding environments. As our Lead Engineer (Armoured Vehicles), you’ll oversee design, integration, and development of critical components and systems — from armour protection to automotive technologies.

You will lead technical delivery, drive innovation, and ensure our solutions meet high standards for performance, safety, cost, and reliability.

If you seek a role where your work has real-world impact and you’re excited to shape the future of armoured vehicle technology, we’d love to hear from you.

Visit our LinkedIn page for more info!

BENEFITS

• Discretionary Half Year Bonus
• Holidays – 25 days + 8 Bank Holidays + Holiday Purchase Scheme
• Paid leave for Reservists and Cadets attending training/camp
• Paid leave for Cadet Force Adult Volunteers (CFAVs)
• Pension – ER/EE – 4%/5% = 9% total
• Life Cover – 3x base salary
• BHSF Cash Healthcare Plan

JOB DUTIES

1. Lead engineering delivery for projects and product lines, ensuring requirements are met.
2. Use SolidWorks confidently; experience with Creo is advantageous.
3. Utilise PLM software (preferably Windchill 10.1+); EPDM knowledge is beneficial.
4. Manage BoM, CAD models, and drawings for data accuracy and version control.
5. Engineer products to meet targets — cost, weight, strength, performance.
6. Support project timelines and milestones.
7. Ensure manufacturability and assembly feasibility early in design.
8. Create and present detailed Design Reports confidently.
9. Manage product specifications from concept to approval.
10. Collaborate with FEA engineers for design validation.
11. Knowledge of ERP systems like QAD or SAP is a plus.
12. Operate within ISO9001 and ISO14001 standards.

The above list is not exhaustive.

EXPERIENCE

Knowledge & Qualifications

• Degree in Mechanical Engineering or relevant experience.
• Chartered Engineer (CEng) or working towards it preferred.
• Experience in automotive, aerospace, or defence sectors.
• Knowledge of low-to-medium volume production methods (Welding, Fabrication, Machining, Composites).
• Full lifecycle engineering experience.
• Proficient in 3D CAD tools (SolidWorks, Creo).
• Material selection and application expertise, especially in structural/protective systems.
• Familiarity with structural performance evaluation and collaboration with FEA specialists.
• Understanding of manufacturing processes.

ABOUT NP AEROSPACE

NP Aerospace is a global manufacturer of armour technology and vehicle integrator, providing lifesaving solutions for defence and security sectors.

Our mission is to deliver products and services that ensure safety. We develop advanced composite materials for body armour and vehicle systems used by major defence organisations.

Founded in 1926, we have over 40 years of service in defence, with expanding teams in the UK and North America.

Equal Opportunity Employer

NP Aerospace is committed to diversity and inclusion. We welcome applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of disability, sexual orientation, or protected status. Employment decisions are based on merit and business needs. We support the Defence Community and advertise on defence-specific platforms.

Data Privacy

We respect your privacy. Personal data will be handled according to our privacy policy and applicable laws.

Note: Successful candidates will need to sign the Official Secrets Act before employment begins.