GKN Aerospace is reimagining air travel: going further, faster and greener! Fuelled by great people whose expertise and creativity sets the standards in our industry, we’re inspired by the opportunities to innovate and break boundaries. We’re proud to play a part in protecting the world’s democracies. And we’re committed to putting sustainability at the centre of everything we do, opening up and protecting our planet. With over 15,000 employees across 41 manufacturing sites in 13 countries we serve over 90% of the world’s aircraft and engine manufacturers. There are no limits to where you can take your career.
Job Summary
We are seeking to recruit a Principal Engineer with a strong background in structural testing to lead the structures test facility based on the Isle of Wight. You will be responsible for managing the facility which includes defining, planning and delivery of test programme for aerostructures and associated assemblies. You’ll be proficient in mechanical engineering with experience of structural testing (although not necessarily aerospace), including a track record of leading complex test programs.
You will have a broad based engineering background and be familiar with the certification process of large primary & secondary structure throughout the test pyramid. The successful applicant will have sound experience in leading technical work and be comfortable in working in both the engineering and operations/test domains. Previous hands-on experience would be advantageous; capable of achieving through others internally and externally, and will be committed to development of their own skills and professional network. Excellent communication skills shall enable confident engagement with a wide variety of senior internal and external stakeholders including academic and industry partners. You will have significant experience in the preparation and planning of test programs, particularly the ability to lead the design of test rigs, preparation of test and instrumentation plans. Engineering signatory for test and previous audit responsibility would be advantageous as the facility holds a UKAS accreditation for structural testing.
The role is based at the GKN facility in Cowes, Isle of Wight and will report to the Centre of Competence Manager for the Civil Airframe UK Test function. You will be part of a larger product engineering team and will be responsible for senior engineers, engineers & technicians as direct reports. You will also co-ordinate with external suppliers.
This is a very exciting position and a role that is exposed to a wide range of customers and engineering operations throughout GKN and the wider industry. Previously experience of managing an operational area and ensuring the compliance with H&S requirements and facility management
Job Responsibilities
Management of test programs, selection of equipment, preparation of documentation
Technical management of resources to deliver test programs, particularly on aero-structures.
Lead the integration of tests, controls and acquisition.
Check & approval responsibility for designs, test plans & test results reports
Support the establishment of safe working practices and necessary level of documentation
Considers the Health & Safety of themselves and others and complies with company Health & Safety requirements
Build Internal & external technical relationships with Customers and suppliers.
Facility management and managing test operations
How You'll Contribute
Essential
To help us make a difference, you’ll bring your passion and talent for what you do along with the following skills, experience, qualifications and attributes:
Min BSc qualified in relevant subject area
Strong experience in general mechanical & electrical engineering leading to technical management
Experience of working in a Test environment within an Engineering company, (preferably Mechanical engineering)
Previous check/approve responsibility
Working knowledge of servo-hydraulic control system, (preferably Moog Aerotest system)
Working knowledge of data acquisition systems, preferably HBK MGC Plus & Quantum X
Experience in Management of safe working environment & practices which comply with company standards & legislation
Desirable
Previous experience with ground testing of aerospace structures
Experience of working with a regulated Quality Management System
Working knowledge of ISO17025:2017
We are looking for people who want to make a difference, talented members with the skills and passions to become the best of the future in what they do. To be successful in this role you must have good interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to translate to a variety of audiences. You will be a strong self-starter, competent to work with general goal-based direction as well as more specific task-based requirements strategic thinking.
What We'll Offer
Once you’re on board you’ll get the following perks and benefits:
Competitive salary dependant on experience
Opportunity to earn up to 15% bonus
Hybrid working – giving you the opportunity to balance home and office working
Industry Leading Pension Scheme = we’ll match your contributions up to 8% on a 1 : 1.5 basis
Life Assurance 8 x salary
190 Hours, plus bank holidays
Income protection
Shopping discounts
Cycle To Work Scheme
Employee Assistance Programme
A collaborative, dynamic working environment
As well as a competitive package we’ll offer you a world of opportunity. We want to see your career fly! We’ll support your career progression by providing you with learning and development opportunities. That’s the beauty of being part of a global business, once you’re on board you never know where you career journey may take you!
We’ll offer you fantastic challenges and amazing opportunities. This is your chance to be part of an organisation that has proven itself to be at the cutting edge of our industry; and is committed to pushing the boundaries even further. And with some of the best training on offer in the industry, who knows how far you can go?
A Great Place to work needs a Great Way of Working
Everyone is welcome to apply to GKN. We believe that we can only achieve our ambitions through a coming together of diverse minds who enjoy collaborating in an inspirational environment. Through our commitment to diversity, inclusion and belonging and by living our five powerful principles we’ve created a culture where everyone feels welcome to contribute. It’s a culture that won us ‘The Best Workplace Culture Award’ last year. By embracing and celebrating what makes us unique we encourage everyone to bring their full self to work.
We’re also committed to providing an accessible recruitment process, so if you require reasonable adjustments at any stage during our recruitment process please get in touch and let us know.
We are the place where human dreams, plus human endeavour, shape the future of aerospace innovation and technology.
Seniority level
Mid-Senior level
Employment type
Full-time
Job function
Engineering and Information Technology
Industries
Aviation and Aerospace Component Manufacturing
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