Lead Mechanical Design Engineer – Research & Development Team

Overview

Mechanical Design Engineer – Mechanical Future Concepts team, working within the Research and Development team. Salary circa £55,000 depends on experience. Hybrid working expected, with about 3 days a week on site.

• Design mechanical components and systems for MBDA's future defence products.
• Develop and implement research projects, securing funding and collaborating with SMEs and academia.
• Lead work packages, manage timelines, and deliver prototypes within rapid development cycles.
• Provide technical guidance and influence cross‑functional stakeholders.
• Analyse structural and thermal behaviour and evaluate composite design options.

• Degree, HND or HNC in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent, with R&D design experience.
• Track record of translating technology into production‑ready products.
• Strong knowledge of 3D CAD/CAE tools; training on MBDA‑preferred CAE tools will be provided.
• Experience with composite design, structural and thermal considerations, and project management.
• Excellent written and verbal communication, with ability to influence and negotiate with stakeholders.
• Proactive, collaborative, calm professional manner, able to prioritise and handle multiple issues.

• Company bonus up to £2,500 based on performance.
• Employer pension contribution up to 14% of pay.
• Paid overtime opportunities.
• Flexi‑leave – up to 15 additional days.
• Flexible working arrangements.
• Enhanced parental leave up to 26 weeks; additional benefits for paternity, neonatal, fertility.
• Site facilities: subsidised meals, free car parking, healthcare cash plan.

• Hybrid working – expected 3 days a week on site.
• Security clearance:
  British Citizen requirement; successful candidates must undergo HMG Basic Personnel Security Standard checks (BPSS).
• Potential international travel for multinational projects.