Lead Flight Test Engineer – EW & Defence Aircraft

Aviation JobSearch Europa; Christchurch; On-site; GBP 75,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Volantes Technical Recruitment Ltd, acting for a leading defence aviation client, seeks a Lead Flight Test Engineer in Bournemouth to direct flight test programmes across a diverse EW/defence aircraft fleet from concept to delivery, both in the UK and at deployed locations.

This flying role focuses on safety, test execution, and reporting, with opportunities to contribute to Operational Readiness Training and regulatory coordination with the UK CAA and other authorities.

Qualifications

• Proven Lead Flight Test Engineer across multiple air vehicle types.
• Eligible to obtain UK Security Clearance (SC).
• CAA Class 2 medical standard or higher.
• Degree in engineering or related field.

Responsibilities

• Lead the delivery of flight test activities in the UK and at deployed locations.
• Plan and conduct airborne and ground flight testing as Lead Flight Test Engineer.
• Develop and own test strategies, plans, and procedures.
• Produce high-quality flight test reports and manage risk to ALARP.
• Ensure regulatory compliance with UK CAA and other authorities.

Skills

Flight test leadership

Security clearance

Regulatory compliance

Air vehicle compatibility

Education

BSc/BEng in Engineering

Tools

Flight test instrumentation

Data acquisition systems

Test planning tools

Job description

Volantes Technical Recruitment Ltd, acting for a leading defence aviation client, seeks a Lead Flight Test Engineer in Bournemouth to direct flight test programmes across a diverse EW/defence aircraft fleet from concept to delivery, both in the UK and at deployed locations.

This flying role focuses on safety, test execution, and reporting, with opportunities to contribute to Operational Readiness Training and regulatory coordination with the UK CAA and other authorities.