Principal Test Development Engineer

MBDA S.A.S.; Barrow-in-Furness; Hybrid; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading defense technology company based in the UK is seeking a skilled engineer to design and develop automated test systems. The role involves collaboration with various teams to ensure product reliability and performance, emphasizing continuous improvement. Candidates must have a relevant engineering degree and experience with LabVIEW and TestStand. The company offers competitive salaries, hybrid working options, and numerous benefits, making this an excellent opportunity for career advancement.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Flexible hybrid working

Attractive relocation package

Private medical insurance

Company sick pay

Access to wellbeing programmes

Qualifications

• Degree in Electrical, Electronic, Mechanical, or a related Engineering discipline.
• Experience in test development, ATE design, or hardware validation.
• Strong knowledge of automated functional test systems.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of automated test systems.
• Define test strategies for electronic assemblies.
• Drive continuous improvement using Lean Sigma methodologies.

Skills

LabVIEW

TestStand

Lean Sigma

Problem-solving

Communication

Education

Degree in Electrical, Electronic, Mechanical Engineering or related

Tools

Oscilloscopes

Digital Multimeters

Signal Generators

Job description

In this role, you'll take a leading part in the design, development, and validation of advanced automated test systems, supporting the full product lifecycle from concept through to production. You'll work closely with design, manufacturing, and quality teams to ensure that every product meets the highest standards of reliability and performance.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and verification of robust automated test systems using tools such as LabVIEW, TestStand, and PXI.
• Define test strategies and architectures for complex electronic assemblies and subsystems.
• Drive continuous improvement and process optimisation using Lean Sigma and structured design methodologies.
• Collaborate across multi‑disciplinary engineering teams to deliver world‑class products to global markets.
• Support and mentor other engineers, with opportunities to step into team leadership or management.

Qualifications

• Degree in Electrical, Electronic, Mechanical, or a related Engineering discipline.
• Experience in test development, ATE design, or hardware validation.
• Strong knowledge of LabVIEW, TestStand, and automated functional test systems.
• Confident working with instrumentation such as oscilloscopes, DMMs, and signal generators.
• Proven background in continuous improvement or Lean Sigma.
• Excellent communication, analytical, and problem‑solving skills.
• Ambition to progress into lead or management roles while remaining technically hands‑on.

Benefits

• Competitive salary with genuine progression opportunities.
• Flexible hybrid working.
• Attractive relocation package for those moving to Edinburgh.
• Private medical insurance.
• Company sick pay, life assurance, and income protection.
• Access to wellbeing programmes such as occupational health, vision care, and discounted gym membership.