Research Engineer - Automated Composite Manufacturing Processes

TN United Kingdom; Luton; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative aerospace firm is seeking a Research Engineer to join their state-of-the-art Global Technology Centre. In this role, you will focus on developing advanced automated composite manufacturing processes for aircraft applications. Collaborating with a dynamic team, you will leverage your engineering expertise to enhance production efficiency and sustainability. This position offers the chance to contribute to cutting-edge projects while fostering your career growth through learning opportunities and potential international mobility. Join a company that values diversity and inclusion, shaping the future of aerospace technology.

Benefits

Industry-leading pension scheme

Life assurance (8x salary)

25 days holiday plus bank holidays

Income protection

Cycle scheme

Employee assistance

Career growth opportunities

Collaborative work environment

Qualifications

• Degree in Engineering or equivalent required.
• Experience with automated composite handling and processing is essential.
• Knowledge of composite design and manufacturing processes is a must.

Responsibilities

• Manage work package budgets and contribute to planning.
• Support development tests and trials, ensuring accurate documentation.
• Adhere to safety policies and promote a safety culture.

Skills

Automated Composite Handling

Programming Equipment (Autoclaves, RTM)

Composite Material Handling

Budgeting and Scheduling

CAD Tools (Catia V5)

Post-Processing Skills

Metrology and NDT Techniques

Composite Design and Manufacturing

Experience in Aerospace

Education

Degree in Engineering

HND or Degree Apprenticeship

Tools

Catia V5

Autoclaves

RTM Equipment

Job description

Research Engineer - Automated Composite Manufacturing Processes, Luton

Client: GKN Aerospace

Location: Luton, United Kingdom

Job Category: Other

EU work permit required: Yes

Job Reference: 2b2d18fa2505

Job Views: 11

Posted: 29.04.2025

Expiry Date: 13.06.2025

Job Description

GKN Aerospace is reimagining air travel: going further, faster and greener! Fuelled by great people whose expertise and creativity set the standards in our industry, we’re inspired by the opportunities to innovate and break boundaries. We’re proud to play a part in protecting the world’s democracies and are committed to sustainability, opening up and protecting our planet. With over 16,000 employees across 33 manufacturing sites in 12 countries, we serve over 90% of the world’s aircraft and engine manufacturers, achieving sales of £3.35 bn in 2023. There are no limits to where you can take your career.

Job Summary

Based within our £32m state-of-the-art Global Technology Centre (GTC) in Filton, Bristol, an opportunity has arisen for a Research Engineer specializing in advanced automated composite manufacturing process development. You will be a key member of the GTC technology team, working on developing advanced composite manufacturing processes for current and future aircraft wing applications.

As a Research Engineer, you will leverage your broad engineering knowledge and understanding of the product lifecycle to undertake research tasks within the TRL3-6 range. You will execute tasks methodically, demonstrate problem-solving skills, and communicate effectively with internal stakeholders.

The Programme

ASCEND is a collaborative composite technology and supply chain development programme led by GKN Aerospace, involving 15 partners from the aerospace and automotive sectors. It aims to develop technologies that enable high-rate manufacturing for civil aircraft and future mobility markets, focusing on automation, design for manufacture, and skills development, while reducing costs and environmental impact. The programme is concluding with its launch in March 2025, targeting TRL5 and TRL6 milestones.

Job Responsibilities

• Understand the strategic direction of target products.
• Manage work package or small work stream budgets.
• Contribute to planning, proposals, and business cases.
• Ensure planning documentation is accurate and up-to-date.
• Support or lead development tests and trials.
• Record data and results meticulously.
• Prepare detailed technical documentation.
• Explore and suggest exploitation routes.
• Support stakeholder management and supply chain coordination.
• Adhere to EH&S policies and promote a safety culture.

Job Qualifications

Candidates should have:

• A degree in Engineering or equivalent (e.g., Aerospace, Mechanical, HND, Degree Apprenticeship).
• Experience with automated composite handling and processing, programming equipment like autoclaves, RTM, infusion, AFP/ATL, and composite material handling.
• Awareness of product lifecycle, budgeting, and scheduling.
• Experience with programming ovens/autoclaves and CAD tools like Catia V5.
• Experience with resin mixing, ply cutting, laser ply projection, and automated processing techniques.
• Post-processing skills including machining and finishing of composites.
• Knowledge of metrology and NDT techniques.
• Understanding of composite design and manufacturing processes.
• Experience in RTM, infusion, and prepreg techniques; aerospace experience preferred.

What We Offer

Benefits include:

• Industry-leading pension scheme with contributions up to 8%.
• Life assurance (8x salary).
• 25 days holiday plus bank holidays.
• Income protection, cycle scheme, employee assistance.
• A collaborative and dynamic work environment.

We support your career growth through learning and development opportunities, with potential for international mobility within our global business.

A Great Place to Work

GKN values diversity, inclusion, and belonging. We foster an environment where everyone can contribute and bring their full selves to work. We are committed to accessible recruitment processes and encourage applications from all backgrounds.

Join us and be part of shaping the future of aerospace innovation and technology.