Job Title: Composites Design Project Engineer - Special Projects
Location: Coventry, UK
Core Hours: 08:00-16:35 (Mon Thu) 08:00-15:10 (Fri)
Vacancy Type: Full-time, Permanent, Hybrid
Salary: £45,000 - £55,000 (subject to experience) + Discretionary Bonus
About the role
We're looking for a Composites Design Project Engineer Special Projects to join NP Aerospace and play a key role in developing the next generation of armour protection and advanced composite technologies.
Working alongside our Special Projects Director, you'll contribute to innovative programmes spanning military vehicle armour, personal protection systems and emerging defence technologies. Your work will directly influence products used by defence organisations across the UK, Europe and North America.
You'll thrive in this role if you enjoy solving complex engineering challenges, taking ideas from concept through to production, and working across international teams to deliver cutting-edge composite solutions. If you want to develop technologies that genuinely protect those who protect us, this could be the perfect opportunity.
What you'll get in return
At NP Aerospace, we know our success comes from our people. Thats why we invest in benefits that support your health, reward your hard work, and help you grow your career:
- Performance rewards discretionary bonus opportunities
- Flex your day flexible start and finish times (subject to manager approval and operational needs)
- Time to recharge 25 days holiday + 8 bank holidays, with the option to buy more through our Holiday Purchase Scheme
- Support for Defence two weeks paid leave for Reservists and Cadets, plus paid leave for Cadet Force Adult Volunteers (CFAVs)
- Future security competitive pension scheme (9% combined employer/employee contributions
- Peace of mind life cover at 3x base salary
- Health & wellbeing first BHSF Cash Healthcare Plan to support everyday health costs
- Grow with us career development and advancement opportunities within a global business
- Supportive environment a team culture built on innovation, collaboration, and purpose
What you'll be doing
You'll work on a diverse range of special projects, supporting the design and development of advanced composite armour systems from initial concept through to testing, validation and manufacture. You'll use your engineering expertise to develop innovative solutions that balance protection, manufacturability and performance, while gaining exposure to some of the defence sector's most technically challenging programmes.
Working closely with engineering teams in the UK, Canada and North America, you'll help turn customer requirements into proven engineering solutions. From producing CAD models and engineering drawings to creating specifications, planning test programmes and analysing results, you'll see your work progress through every stage of the product lifecycle while building expertise across international defence programmes.
You'll also play an important role in supporting manufacturing, solving technical challenges and improving existing products. Your work will include developing Bills of Materials, manufacturing documentation, traceability records and engineering reports that enable products to move efficiently from prototype to production. Along the way, you'll collaborate with Quality, Manufacturing Engineering, Business Development and Marketing teams, giving you broad exposure across the business and opportunities to influence future product development.
Our team embraces modern technologies, including AI-assisted tools, to work smarter and deliver better results. Candidates should either have experience using AI tools or demonstrate a willingness to learn and apply them in their role.
Our team embraces modern technologies, including AI-assisted tools, to work smarter and deliver better results. Candidates should either have experience using AI tools or demonstrate a willingness to learn and apply them in their role.
What we're looking for
We're looking for an engineer who combines strong composites knowledge with creativity, curiosity and a practical approach to solving engineering problems.
Essential
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Honours degree (or equivalent) in Mechanical Engineering or a related engineering discipline
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Experience working with composite materials and manufacturing processes
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Previous experience delivering engineering design and development projects from concept through to production
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Experience using 3D CAD software for modelling and detailed design
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Good understanding of engineering drawings and design standards, ideally within automotive or defence environments
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Familiarity with configuration control and engineering change management
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Strong communication skills with the ability to work effectively across engineering teams and with customers
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Experience working within manufacturing or production environments
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A practical, hands-on approach with excellent problem-solving skills
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Ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining high levels of quality and traceability
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Experience using AI tools or demonstrates a willingness to learn and apply AI in the role
Desirable
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Experience using PTC Creo, Windchill or Creo Simulate
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Experience with QAD or other ERP/MRP systems
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Knowledge of ballistic testing and interpreting ballistic test data
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Experience producing FMEAs, DVP&R, Statements of Work or engineering specifications
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Knowledge of Design for Manufacture (DfM) and tooling design
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Experience designing lightweight composite or ceramic armour systems
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Experience with composite tooling design and manufacture
Recruitment Process
As part of the interview process, you may be asked to deliver a short presentation on a relevant engineering topic. Full details and preparation guidance will be shared before the final interview stage.
What do we do at NP Aerospace?
NP Aerospace is a global leader in armour technology manufacturing and vehicle integration, delivering high-performance, lifesaving solutions for the defence and security industry.
Our mission is to improve and protect lives, and our vision is to be a leading provider of innovative solutions that solve our customers' complex challenges. Our values - Respect, Collaboration, Integrity, and Dedication form the bedrock of our culture.
Our extensive range of combat-proven body armour, from ballistic helmets, plates, and shields to bomb disposal suits, highlights some of the most advanced composite materials. With a team of R&D engineers working on next-generation solutions, we also excel in highly engineered vehicle systems and armour platforms used by some of the worlds largest defence organisations.
Founded in 1926, NP Aerospace has served the defence industry for over 40 years, evolving into an agile and diverse company. Our Business Development team is expanding both in the UK and North America.
Equal Opportunity Employer Statement: NP Aerospace is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We welcome applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of race, colour, national origin, gender, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, or any other legally protected status. All employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs. We are also fully committed to supporting the Defence Community and actively advertise roles on Defence specific platforms such as CTP, Force Families, Forces Employment Charity, and Veterans Job Board.
Data Privacy: NP Aerospace respects the privacy of all applicants. Personal information provided during the application process will be treated in accordance with our privacy policy and applicable data protection laws.
Please note: If successful, you will be required to sign the Official Secrets Act and successfully pass the necessary checks before you can begin your employment with NP Aerospace.
