Principal Stress Engineer (Composites) - F1

JR United Kingdom; Northampton; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in advanced engineering seeks a Principal Stress Engineer specialized in composite materials. The role involves leading a team, conducting finite element analysis, and driving best practices to ensure high-performance component delivery. The ideal candidate will possess strong communication skills and a proactive approach to continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• In-depth knowledge of composite materials behavior.
• Experience with FEA tools and techniques required.
• Significant experience in stress engineering, ideally in composites.

Responsibilities

• Lead the stress engineering team and provide oversight.
• Conduct detailed FEA and hand calculations.
• Ensure the team operates effectively and resolves engineering issues.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Problem Solving

Continuous Improvement

Education

Degree in Mechanical Engineering

Degree in Aerospace Engineering

Tools

Finite Element Analysis (FEA)

Job description

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Principal Stress Engineer (Composites) - F1, northampton

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Client:

XQ Technical

Location:

northampton, United Kingdom

Job Category:

Other

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EU work permit required:

Yes

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Job Views:

6

Posted:

16.06.2025

Expiry Date:

31.07.2025

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Job Description:

Job Title: Principal Stress Engineer (Composites)

Reports To: Head of Structural Engineering

Role Overview:

We are seeking an experienced Principal Stress Engineer with expertise in composite materials to lead a team of engineers focused on advanced structural analysis. This role involves coordinating engineering efforts to assess the strength and performance of composite components, defining load cases, and managing the day-to-day operations of the stress engineering team. The ideal candidate will also contribute to the development of internal standards, drive the implementation of best practices, and support cross-functional collaboration to ensure the successful delivery of high-performance components.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead a dedicated team of stress engineers, providing daily oversight and mentorship to optimise individual and team performance.
• Provide clear and actionable direction to achieve engineering goals and promote a collaborative environment.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement and technical excellence.

Structural Analysis & Reporting:

• Conduct detailed finite element analysis (FEA) and hand calculations to assess the mechanical properties of composite materials.
• Generate high-quality, comprehensive analytical reports to support the design and certification processes.
• Ensure all analytical work adheres to rigorous engineering standards and methodologies.

Process Improvement:

• Identify and implement improvements to current FEA methodologies, engineering processes, and technical documentation.
• Contribute to the definition and improvement of internal standards and best practices related to composite analysis.

Team Development:

• Support the recruitment and hiring process for the stress engineering team, including interviewing candidates and providing mentorship to new hires.
• Conduct performance appraisals, probation reviews, and offer guidance to ensure professional growth and success within the department.

Operational Support:

• Ensure the team operates effectively by managing absence, maintaining workload balance, and conducting return-to-work interviews as needed.
• Take responsibility for resolving engineering issues promptly and effectively, maintaining project timelines.

Qualifications & Skills:

Educational Background:

• A degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related discipline, with a focus on structural analysis or materials science.

Technical Expertise:

• In-depth knowledge of composite material behaviour and extensive experience with FEA tools and techniques.
• Strong proficiency in interpreting and applying engineering codes, standards, and specifications in the design and analysis of composite structures.

Professional Experience:

• Significant experience in a stress engineering role, with a focus on composites, ideally within a high-performance engineering or manufacturing environment.
• Proven track record of leading teams and delivering complex engineering solutions on time and to high standards.

Personal Attributes:

• Strong communication and leadership skills, with the ability to manage teams effectively.
• Proactive, solution-oriented approach with a focus on continuous improvement.
• A collaborative mindset with a willingness to share knowledge and expertise across disciplines.