Principal Research Engineer - Process Development

About the Role

Principal Research Engineer (Work Stream Lead) for Powder Bed Additive Manufacturing of Aero-Engine components at GKN Aerospace Global Technology Centre. You will technically programme manage Additive Manufacturing Technology Development activities leading to industrialisation of Laser Powder Bed Fusion Engine technologies.

• Develop, manage and deliver Technology Development Plans, ensuring schedule, cost and risk control.
• Provide technical leadership on additive manufacturing process and metallic technology development for Aero Engine applications.
• Lead a small UK‑based team, collaborating with experts in Sweden and India to achieve project deliverables.
• Engage with customers, academia and partners to align technology maturation, qualification and certification.
• Contribute to defining the company’s Powder Bed technology development strategy, balancing near‑term exploitation and long‑term innovations.

• Minimum
  
  B.Eng (or equivalent) degree with 8 years of relevant experience.
• Experience in metallic powder characterisation, DfAM, simulation, LPBF process parameter development, material testing, heat treatment, post‑processing and inspection.
• Ability to assess compliance to Company / Customer / Industry specifications and translate evolving requirements into robust development plans aligned to TRL progression.
• Awareness of Aerospace Qualification and Certification processes (APQP/PPAP and IQ/OQ/PQ).
• Experience leading, coaching and mentoring multidisciplinary Engineering/Technology teams.
• Proven ability to influence across functional boundaries and strong communication skills.

• Project Management qualification.
• External network in Aerospace or relevant Technology areas.
• Knowledge of GKN Aerospace products and aero engine structures across OEMs.

• Competitive salary based on experience.
• Up to 15% bonus.
• Industry‑leading pension scheme – match contributions up to 8% on a 1 : 1.5 basis (Employer max 12%).
• Life assurance (8× salary).
• 25 days holiday plus bank holidays.
• Flexible working hours with the option to finish at 12noon on Fridays.
• Income protection.
• Shopping discounts.
• Cycle To Work scheme.
• Employee Assistance Programme.
• Virtual GP clinic for you and immediate family.

A hybrid working pattern is offered. The role is based at GKN's Global Technology Centre and requires collaboration with stakeholders across multiple sites.

We are an equal opportunity employer and welcome applications from all qualified individuals.