Propulsion R&D Engineer — Lead Prototyping & Innovation

CBSbutler; Larkhill; On-site; GBP 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

CBSbutler is seeking a Research And Development Engineer for an advanced propulsion organisation in the Defence Technology sector. You will own innovation projects from concept to implementation, developing new technologies, building prototypes, validating designs, and delivering real‑world engineering solutions that shape future products and manufacturing capabilities.

You'll have significant autonomy, influence technical direction, and collaborate with specialists across design, materials,

Qualifications

• Significant experience in research, development, advanced engineering or product innovation environments.
• Hands-on prototyping, machining and experimental development.
• Strong mechanical design and development expertise.
• Experience designing, building and validating prototypes and test equipment.
• Ability to mentor junior engineers and lead technical work packages.
• Experience managing budgets, schedules and technical deliverables.

Responsibilities

• Lead research projects from concept to implementation.
• Identify opportunities to improve performance, cost and lead time.
• Develop business cases for new technologies and secure stakeholder buy-in.
• Design, build and validate prototypes, tooling and test equipment.
• Manage project budgets, milestones and technical deliverables.
• Produce and approve engineering drawings and 3D models.
• Conduct feasibility studies and technical investigations.
• Collaborate with suppliers and multidisciplinary teams.
• Own verification and validation activities for robust solutions.
• Monitor emerging technologies to inform future capability.

Skills

R&D experience

Prototyping

Mechanical design

DfMA

GD&T

Project leadership

Stakeholder management

Job description

CBSbutler is seeking a Research And Development Engineer for an advanced propulsion organisation in the Defence Technology sector. You will own innovation projects from concept to implementation, developing new technologies, building prototypes, validating designs, and delivering real‑world engineering solutions that shape future products and manufacturing capabilities.

You'll have significant autonomy, influence technical direction, and collaborate with specialists across design, materials,