Senior Design Engineer

GKN Aerospace is a leading aerospace manufacturer with over 16,000 employees across 33 sites. Based in Luton, we specialise in aircraft ice protection systems, transparencies, and related structures.

As a Senior Design Engineer
, you will support our Transparencies team, leading design activities for fast‑jet canopies, helicopter windscreens, and flight deck windows. You will work across the product lifecycle to manage requirements, geometric design, materials selection, tooling, manufacturing process development, and product verification for programmes including Boeing 787, Airbus A320, and Lockheed Martin F‑22.

• Analyse customer requirements and develop technical solutions for bids and proposals.
• Develop, check and approve compliance documentation ensuring designs meet all regulatory and airworthiness requirements.
• Identify and assess technical risks, propose mitigations, and lead on Launch (IPT) and Material Review Board activities.
• Define and validate test methods or alternative compliance means.
• Produce and approve permits, concessions, and rework schemes, and support non‑conforming product handling.
• Lead internal and external technical reviews, preparing gate reviews, technical data, and presentations.
• Mentor junior team members and contribute to continuous improvement of processes and design handbooks.
• Support GKN's “Great Place to Work” initiatives.

Core operating hours:
Monday‑Thursday 07:30–16:30, Friday 07:30–12:30. Flexibility and occasional work‑from‑home, plus UK travel, are possible.

• Accredited Bachelor‑level engineering qualification or equivalent.
• Strong interest in aviation and aerospace engineering technology.
• Self‑starter with strong planning, evidence‑based decision making, and problem‑solving skills.
• Excellent written and oral communication and interpersonal skills.
• Experience creating models and drawings in CATIA V5.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.

Note:

Some programmes have regulatory restrictions that may affect certain nationalities. The role requires UK National Security Vetting (UKNSV) Security Clearance (SC). Applicants must typically have lived in the UK for at least five years.

• Competitive salary, dependent on experience.
• Up to 15 % bonus.
• Industry‑leading pension scheme – 8 % employer match on a 1:1.5 basis.
• Life assurance (8 × salary).
• 185 hours annual holiday + bank holidays.
• Income protection.
• Shopping discounts.
• Cycle‑to‑work scheme.
• Employee Assistance Programme.
• Virtual GP clinic for you and immediate family.
• Electric Vehicle (EV) salary‑sacrifice scheme covering insurance, servicing, maintenance, and roadside assistance.
• Free onsite parking, local gym discount, and free airport parking.
• Enhanced family‑friendly leave.
• Collaborative, dynamic working environment.