Senior Research Engineer - Composite Manufacturing Processes

Senior Research Engineer - Composite Manufacturing Processes

We are looking for a Senior
Research Engineer – with a background in advanced composite manufacturing process development to help shape the future of flight. You will be an integral member of the GTC technology team working on developing advanced composite manufacturing processes for current and future wing applications. We are looking for people who want to make a difference, talented individuals with the skills and passion to become future leaders in what they do.

As a Senior Research Engineer you will draw on your diverse engineering background and product lifecycle awareness to progress a variety of research activity in the TRL1-6 range. You must have sound experience in leading technical work, including budgeting, schedule and risk management. You will be capable of achieving through others internally and externally, and you will be committed to development of your own skills and professional network.

Your good communication skills shall enable you to confidently engage with a wide variety of internal and external stakeholders.

• Contribute to shaping and delivery of project strategy
  , integrating cross-functional expertise and understanding the strategic direction for target products.
• Plan and manage delivery
  , including budgets, schedules, and preparation of Technology Development Plans and Technology Business Cases.
• Lead development activities
  , from hands‑on testing and trials through to high‑quality technical documentation.
• Drive projects to exploitation
  , supporting development toward industrialisation and real‑world application.
• Engage stakeholders and partners
  , build and maintain strong relationships across internal and external partners, customers, and the supply chain.
• Support and develop people while fostering a safe, inclusive, and high‑performing working environment. You may be responsible for line management of Technology team members or have management of deployed resources.

To help us make a difference, you’ll bring your passion and expertise/ talent for what you do along with the following skills, experience, qualifications and attributes:

• Good technical knowledge in one or more advanced composite manufacturing processes (e.g., Resin Transfer Moulding, automated layup, fibre placement/tape laying) for application in medium to large‑scale aerospace structures, with relevant experience from other industries also welcomed.
• Experience contributing to the development and delivery of composite structures
  , including tooling concepts, forming/layup technologies, in‑process monitoring, and manufacturing systems and equipment.
• Good understanding of process control, repeatability, and statistical variation for composite manufacturing.
• Experience collaborating with tooling engineers and others on mould/tool design, material deposition strategies, and thermal/process management.
• Knowledge of common composite manufacturing defects (e.g., porosity, fibre misalignment, dry areas, wrinkles) and mitigation approaches.
• Hands‑on experience supporting composite manufacturing in a production or industrial R&D environment.
• Detailed knowledge of carbon fibre materials and processing options
  , across manual and automated processing methods.
• Strong understanding of aerospace‑grade composite systems
  , including fibres, resins, and core materials.

Once you’re on board, you’ll get the following perks and benefits:

• Competitive salary dependent on experience
• Up to 15% Bonus
• Industry Leading Pension Scheme – we’ll match your contributions up to 8% on a 1:1.5 basis (Employer max contribution 12%)
• Life Assurance 8 x salary
• 25 days holiday + bank holidays
• Flexible working hours including the ability to finish at 12noon on a Friday
• Income protection
• Cycle To Work Scheme
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Virtual GP Clinic for you and immediate family
• A collaborative, dynamic working environment