Lead Engineer: Test Means & Stress

Belcan; Filton; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Belcan is seeking a Lead Engineer to drive design and structural integrity for test means in a 12-month on-site role at Filton. You will lead advanced test rig concepts, coordinating across test leadership, data acquisition, hydraulics, and calibration teams.

You will perform rigorous stress analysis, check designs, and manage supplier engagement to ensure regulatory compliance and high-quality outcomes for next-generation wings and airframe systems.

Qualifications

• Design of aeronautical structures using CATIA/3DEXPERIENCE.
• Perform stress calculations and checks (hand or FEM).
• Experience with supplier management or supplier selection.
• Degree in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline.

Responsibilities

• Architect and deliver advanced test rig concepts with a focus on quality and compliance.
• Execute high-precision 3D pre-designs and detailed interface drawings.
• Lead structural stress analysis and review team stress activities.
• Lead manufacturing and design-to-manufacture work packages within the test centre perimeter.
• Act as primary technical interface for external customers and cross-functional units.
• Integrate electrical, measurement, and data system installation requirements.

Skills

Aeronautical design

Stress analysis

Supplier management

CATIA

3DEXPERIENCE

FEM tools

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

CATIA

3DEXPERIENCE

FEM tools

Job description

Job Title - Lead Engineer: Test Means Design & Stress

Location - Filton (80% On Site)

Duration - 12 Months

Belcan are currently supporting one of the leaders in Aviation, as they are looking for a high-energy Lead Engineer to drive the design and structural integrity of critical test means, ensuring the next-generation aircraft wings and airframe systems meet the highest standards of safety and performance.

Mission & Overview

The Structures Test Centre UK is a powerhouse of aerospace innovation. Based in a £100m state-of-the-art hub, we execute the complex static and fatigue testing that validates the programmes. You will be at the heart of this collaborative, fast-paced environment.

The centre is structured around specialised operational teams and skill groups covering test leadership, test means engineering, advanced technologies (including control, data acquisition, measurement, and hydraulics), and test operations (such as calibration, test preparation, and execution). This role collaborates directly across all these operational disciplines.

How You Will Contribute to the Team

• Architect and deliver advanced test rig concepts, maintaining a relentless focus on quality and regulatory compliance.
• Execute high-precision 3D pre-designs and detailed specimen interface drawings.
• Drive structural excellence through rigorous stress analysis and serve as a design checker for team stress activities.
• Lead manufacturing and design-to-manufacture work packages within the test centre perimeter.
• Act as a primary technical interface for external customers and cross-functional business units.
• Integrate electrical, measurement, and data system installation requirements.

About You

You will have experience in;

• Design of aeronautical structures or equivalent high precision structural engineering projects (e.g. civil, marine, test rigs) using CATIA or 3Dexperience.
• Stress calculation and checking (hand calculations and/or FEM sizing tool).
• Materials testing (optional)
• Experience in managing suppliers or participating in supplier selection
• Educated to degree level (or equivalent) in mechanical engineering or a related discipline (e.g. Aerospace, Structures, Materials, Physics).

This vacancy is being advertised by Belcan