Manufacturing Research Engineer – Automated Layup (AFP/ATL/Pick & Place)

National Composites Centre; Bristol; Hybrid; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

An advanced composites research center in Bristol is seeking a Research Engineer to lead automation projects and develop cutting-edge robotic systems. You will be responsible for optimizing automated equipment and mentoring early-career engineers. Candidates should have a degree in engineering and hands-on experience with robotic systems. Join a collaborative environment focused on delivering innovation in manufacturing. Benefits include flexible working, generous pension, and continuous development opportunities.

Benefits

Flexible hybrid working

Generous pension

Private healthcare

Access to cutting-edge technology

Continuous professional development

Qualifications

• Hands-on experience with robotic systems and automation cells, preferably AFP, ATL, or textile handling.
• Ability to write manufacturing documentation and troubleshoot hardware including sensor setup.
• Knowledge of automation systems and experience in agile R&D settings.

Responsibilities

• Lead automation projects pushing the boundaries of composite manufacturing.
• Operate and optimize advanced automated and robotic equipment.
• Develop next-generation automated processing technology, including hardware integration.

Skills

Hands-on experience with robotic systems

Strong interpersonal and communication skills

Ability to write manufacturing documentation

Knowledge of automation systems

Fluent English (written and spoken)

Education

Degree-level qualification in a relevant engineering discipline

Tools

Python

Job description

Bristol | Full Time | Hybrid Working

Drive the future of advanced composites and automation at NCC.

Are you ready to take automation to the next level? We’re looking for a practical, innovative Research Engineer to join our Automated Layup team in Bristol. This is your chance to work with state-of-the-art robotic systems and large-scale automation cells, delivering solutions that will transform UK manufacturing.

What you’ll do:

• Lead automation projects that push the boundaries of composite manufacturing.
• Operate & optimise advanced automated/robotic equipment, including programming, calibration, and troubleshooting.
• Partner with industry leaders to solve real-world engineering challenges and deliver measurable impact.
• Develop next-generation automated composite processing technology, including hardware integration, control systems, requirements capture, and machine specification writing — shaping the future of large-scale manufacturing.
• Mentor and inspire early-career engineers, sharing your expertise in automation and robotics.
• Thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment where your ideas drive progress.

What we’re looking for:

• Degree-level qualification in a relevant engineering discipline.
• Hands‑on experience with robotic systems and automation cells (Preferred but not limited to AFP, ATL, textile handling).
• Ability to write manufacturing documentation and work troubleshoot hardware (e.g., sensor setup, Instruction writing and data capture).
• Knowledge of automation systems and experience in agile R&D settings.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Fluent English (written and spoken).

Desirable:

• Scripting or simulation experience (Python preferred).
• Background in robotics, digital manufacturing, or textile processing.
• Appreciation for NC programming for robotic applications (composites preferred).
• Understanding of control systems, sensors, and integration of automation hardware.

See full job description for an outline of the role at Research Engineer and Advanced Research Engineer level.

Closing date for applications: 23:59 Sunday 4th January 2026

Why join us?

At NCC, we don’t just research — we deliver innovation at scale. Our mission is to help UK industry unlock the full potential of advanced composites through collaboration, technical leadership, and cutting‑edge automation. You’ll work with world‑class facilities, tackle complex engineering challenges, and make a tangible impact on sectors from aerospace to renewable energy.

What we offer:

• Flexible hybrid working with a standard 37‑hour workweek.
• Generous pension and private healthcare.
• Access to cutting‑edge technology and continuous professional development.

We see your future in ours. Apply now.