Lead Structures Design Engineer

Lead Structures Design Engineer
Accountable to: Head of Structures and Stress
Accountable for: Technical supervision and delivery responsibility for a Structures Design Team of up to 5 engineers.
Department: Structures and Stress
Location: Hybrid (Office/Remote) – South West, UK
Travel: May be required to travel domestically or internationally for business needs.

Role Summary:
An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Lead Structures Design Engineer to take ownership of structural component design for a unique aerospace project. This role involves leading a team of engineers to develop, integrate, and certify metallic and composite structures, ensuring they are manufacturable and compliant with industry regulations. The successful candidate will oversee structural integration, ground support equipment design, and liaise with multi-disciplinary teams to bring complex aircraft structures to completion.

Key Responsibilities:
Lead the structural design of metallic and composite components for an advanced aerospace project.
Oversee the 3D/2D CAD modelling, design configuration, and manufacturability of structures and system interfaces.
Ensure compliance with aerospace certification standards (Part 21, Civil/Military regulations).
Support the development of ground support equipment to aid aircraft assembly and maintenance.
Work closely with mechanical and electrical teams to integrate systems within the aircraft’s structure.
Maintain configuration control of design data and documentation for certification.
Provide technical leadership and mentorship to a team of design engineers, ensuring high-quality design output.
Act as a point of contact for suppliers and external vendors, representing the company’s interests in design discussions.
Ensure engineering standards and processes are consistently applied in product design.
Participate in design reviews, technical reporting, and regulatory documentation preparation.
Develop estimates and project plans for the design and structures team.

Person Specification:
Qualifications:
Degree or HND in Engineering (Essential).
MSc/Degree with Chartered Engineer status or professional membership (Desirable).

Experience:
5–10 years of experience in structural design within the aerospace industry (Essential).
Over 10 years of experience in aerospace structural design (Desirable).

Knowledge & Skills:
Essential:
Strong understanding of 3D/2D CAD modelling (Catia V4, V5, or V6), assembly generation, and design integration.
Experience with Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) tools such as Windchill, 3D Experience, or Metaphase.
Working knowledge of Part 21 regulations and an appreciation of Civil or Military design standards.
Ability to lead a team and drive projects to completion.
Strong knowledge of metallic and composite structural design principles.
Experience in DFM (Design for Manufacture) and Interface Control.
Excellent technical report writing and familiarity with MS Office Suite.

Desirable:
Expertise in aerospace structural design working practices.
Experience in supplier technical management and cross-discipline collaboration.
Strong understanding of composite structures and best design practices.
Personal Attributes:
A dynamic, proactive individual with strong leadership skills.
Effective team player with excellent communication and problem-solving abilities.
Comfortable working in a small, flexible, and fast-moving team environment.
Able to think creatively and challenge conventional approaches.
Self-motivated, detail-oriented, and able to prioritize tasks effectively.

Additional Requirements:
Must have the right to work in the UK.
Eligible to obtain security clearance.
Willingness to travel domestically and internationally when required.
Hold a valid UK driving license and passport.

This is an opportunity to lead a talented team in a growing aerospace company, working on a unique and forward-thinking aircraft. If you are passionate about structural design, innovation, and engineering leadership, this role offers an exciting challenge in a cutting-edge environment.