Research Engineer - Design

National Composites Centre; Bristol; Hybrid; GBP 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading composites research organization in Bristol is seeking a motivated Research Engineer to develop cutting-edge composite solutions. The role involves engineering design, supporting projects in Defence, Automotive, and Energy sectors. Candidates must possess a relevant degree or diploma and are encouraged to apply even if they do not meet all specific requirements. The position offers a hybrid work model, comprehensive training, and ample career growth opportunities.

Benefits

Annual salary reviews

Company paid private medical insurance

Up to 12.5% employer pension contribution

Flexible working environment

Honorary staff status at the University of Bristol

Qualifications

• HND/HNC or Degree in a related discipline.
• Experience with Computer-Aided Design tools preferred.
• Good foundational knowledge of materials and processing techniques.

Responsibilities

• Develop customer requirements from concepting to completion.
• Design and draught using CATIA, NX, and 3DX.
• Support project teams with design and manufacturing knowledge.

Skills

Engineering design

Computer-Aided Design

Problem-solving

Communication

Education

HND/HNC or Degree in Engineering Design or Materials Engineering

Tools

CATIA V5

NX

3DEXPERIENCE

Solid Works

Job description

About The Role

NCC is a world-leading authority on composite materials research, development, and manufacturing. We work with global leaders across industries such as aerospace, automotive, renewable energy, and defence to develop cutting-edge composite solutions. As part of the UK's High Value Manufacturing Catapult, the NCC is at the forefront of innovation, helping businesses turn ideas into reality.

We are seeking a motivated and ambitious Research Engineer with an interest in engineering design to work across a number of engineering projects in Defence, Automotive and Energy. These are large-scale programmes of work, some of the most significant and challenging in the sector, so we're looking for a talented research engineer or associate research engineer to join the team and help make it happen. Comprehensive training can be provided.

What you\'ll be doing

• Developing customer requirements from concepting through to completion while communicating effectively and professionally
• Design and draughting using CATIA, NX and 3DX
• Supporting other project teams with your design and manufacturing knowledge
• Visiting supplier and customer sites
• Presenting at PDR/CDR and peer/project reviews and meetings
• Helping to define NCC roadmaps for design

What we\'re looking for

• Either HND/HNC or Degree in a related discipline such as Engineering Design, Materials Engineering.
• Ideally Computer-Aided Design (CATIA V5, NX, 3DEXPERIENCE, Solid Works) experience - although we can support development/conversion to this capability.
• Composites is not a pre-requisite for this role - a good foundation or appreciation of materials, processing techniques and design would be sufficient such as composites, metallic materials and design for manufacture (DFM) (e.g. manufacture, assembly, cost etc.).
• Experience of working in a team and on your own to solve problems.
• Ability to articulate complicated ideas in a simple way

What do we offer in return?

Hybrid and flexible working as standard, annual salary reviews, company paid private medical insurance, up to 12.5% employer pension contribution, awesome people, honorary staff status at the University of Bristol. With a genuine focus on wellbeing, EDI and learning and development this is a chance to build your career in a thriving R&D facility with a bright future.

Come and deliver excellence together. Apply now.

Closing date for applications Sunday 19th October 2025 - If you are interested please don\'t wait for the closing date to apply as we retain the right to close applications early depending on the quality and volume of candidates.

About The Company

NCC is a world-leading innovation organisation that turns cutting-edge research and technology into industrial impact. We bridge the gap between academia and industry, helping companies of all sizes to capitalise on cutting-edge innovation to deliver more. We do this at every stage of their journey from the earliest concept to end-of-life.

The future of composites manufacturing relies on NCC, and we rely on the right individuals to make it happen, whether they\'re engineers or not!

Why NCC?

We see our success in yours. Not sure you meet all the requirements? Let us decide! Research shows that women and members of other underrepresented groups tend not to apply for jobs if they think they may not meet every qualification, when in fact they often do. At NCC we are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment and strongly encourage you to apply.

We ensure that all hiring decisions are made without regard to age, race, national origin, sex, disability, gender, gender identity, religion, or any other protected characteristics, and will treat all applications with the strictest confidence. We're always open to hearing how we can support flexible working in different ways, including part-time work. Please don\'t be afraid to ask about what we can do to support your needs. All requests will be carefully and fairly considered. We wish you every success in your job search.

World class facilities: Be part of a world-class research centre in composite materials and manufacturing, working on projects with global impact.

Comprehensive Training: Access extensive training and support.

Innovative Environment: Collaborate with leading experts and innovators to address complex challenges in advanced manufacturing.

Career Growth: Gain hands-on experience in a high-demand sector, with significant opportunities for professional development and career progression.

We look forward to hearing from you. #fulltime