Specialist, Structures Engineer

Arrow McLaren IndyCar; Woking; On-site; GBP 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

McLaren Accelerator is seeking a Structures Engineer on a fixed-term contract to deliver structural analysis across multidisciplinary projects. You will develop robust methodologies, create analysis-ready CAD geometry and FE models, and interpret FEA results to guide engineering decisions.

Applicants should have strong background in composites, materials and high-performance engineering, with experience using industry-standard FEA tools and ability to work independently within multidisciplinary

Qualifications

• Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace, Civil or Structural Engineering, or related STEM field, or equivalent industry experience.
• Solid understanding of structural mechanics, stress analysis, fatigue and buckling, with composite materials experience.
• Proven industrial experience applying FEA to composite structures in a high-performance environment.

Responsibilities

• Deliver structural analysis activities for accelerator projects.
• Develop robust analysis methodologies for complex challenges.
• Create and prepare analysis-ready CAD geometry and finite element models.
• Plan, execute and interpret finite element analyses with clear recommendations.

Skills

FEA experience

Composite structures

CAD geometry

Finite element modelling

Problem solving

Communication skills

Independent work

Education

Mechanical Engineering degree

Tools

HyperWorks

Abaqus

Ansys

Nastran

Job description

We are looking for a Structures Engineer to join McLaren Accelerator on a fixed-term contract.

Due to project requirements, we're particularly keen to hear from candidates who are available to start in the short term or near future.

Working within multidisciplinary teams, you will apply structural analysis, simulation and engineering expertise to solve complex technical challenges for our partners. Collaborating with engineers, consultants, project managers and subject matter experts, you will help translate McLaren Racing's engineering excellence into practical, high-value solutions across a range of industries.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Deliver structural analysis activities in support of McLaren Accelerator engineering projects.
• Perform structural R&D activities and develop robust analysis methodologies to solve complex engineering challenges.
• Create and prepare analysis-ready CAD geometry and finite element models.
• Plan, execute and interpret finite element analyses (FEA), providing clear recommendations and technical guidance.
• Champion best practice in structural analysis tools, processes and workflows, driving continuous improvement.
• Apply knowledge of materials, composite structures, structural performance, manufacturing constraints and validation techniques to support engineering decisions.
• Collaborate with Engineering, Technical Consulting and High-Performance Programmes teams to deliver integrated solutions.
• Support project scoping, proposal development and technical bid activities.
• Work closely with project managers, suppliers, academic partners and customers to ensure successful project delivery.
• Contribute to knowledge sharing and capability development across McLaren Accelerator.
• Support the delivery of High-Performance Programmes by bringing engineering experiences to life within partner environments.

Company Description

McLaren Accelerator

Fixed-Term Contract

McLaren Accelerator is a multidisciplinary consulting and engineering business that applies the technology, methodology and high-performance culture of Formula 1 to help organisations solve complex challenges and unlock competitive advantage.

Drawing on McLaren Racing's championship-winning expertise, we work across engineering, technical consulting and high-performance programmes to deliver measurable impact through people, processes and products. By combining elite engineering, advanced analytics and innovative ways of working, we help partners accelerate innovation, improve performance and drive sustainable growth.

Our teams bring together expertise from engineering, simulation, data science, manufacturing, project delivery and organisational performance to deliver solutions that are faster, smarter and built for lasting impact.

Qualifications

Required

• Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering or a related STEM discipline, or equivalent industry experience.
• Strong understanding of structural mechanics, strength of materials, stress analysis, fatigue, buckling and failure mechanisms, with experience applying these principles to composite structures and materials.
• Demonstrable industrial experience applying finite element analysis (FEA) and structural engineering principles to composite structures, solving complex engineering challenges within a high-performance multidisciplinary engineering environment.
• Experience assessing and analysing composite structures, including an understanding of laminate behaviour, failure modes and structural performance.
• Experience using Altair HyperWorks / OptiStruct, Abaqus, Ansys Mechanical, Nastran or similar structural analysis tools.
• Strong understanding of finite element modelling, including meshing, load application, boundary conditions and result interpretation.
• Experience with optimisation techniques focused on weight, stiffness and performance.
• Experience creating and modifying CAD geometry for analysis and engineering development activities.
• Ability to independently manage analysis work packages from concept through to delivery.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving and communication skills.
• Experience delivering technical projects against agreed objectives and deadlines.

Desirable

• Experience within Formula 1 or other top-level motorsport environments.
• Experience with composite laminate design, optimisation and analysis, including durability and fatigue assessment.
• Experience working with both composite and metallic structures in a high-performance engineering environment.
• Experience with non-linear analysis, modal analysis, impact, crashworthiness or other advanced simulation techniques.
• Knowledge of materials testing, correlation and validation methodologies.
• Experience using Python, MATLAB or other automation and data analysis tools.
• Experience working within High Performance Computing (HPC) environments for large-scale simulations.
• Experience delivering customer-facing engineering, consultancy or technical project work.
• Experience collaborating with academic institutions or external technical partners.

Personal Attributes

• Self-motivated, proactive and capable of working independently.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving mindset with excellent attention to detail.
• Effective communicator who thrives in collaborative, multidisciplinary teams.
• Adaptable and resilient, able to perform under pressure and manage changing priorities.
• Committed to continuous learning, knowledge sharing and continuous improvement.
• Professional, team-oriented and willing to travel occasionally as required.

Additional Information

Success in racing comes from bringing together talented people with different skills, perspectives and experiences. We're committed to building an inclusive environment where everyone feels supported and empowered to deliver their best work.

Every role has the potential to drive high performance. You'll be part of a team united by a shared ambition to push boundaries and embody our racing mindset. We invest in our people through opportunities to develop and grow, creating an environment where individuals and teams can thrive.
Alongside a range of wellbeing initiatives and development opportunities, we're committed to helping you build a rewarding career and make your mark at McLaren Racing.