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Lead Design Engineer
Job Posted: 3 days ago
Salary: £ 50 - 70 / Hour
Job Type: Contract
Location: Gillingham, Dorset
Expire in: 25 days
Job Description
About the Opportunity
Are you eager to shape the future of aerospace and uncrewed systems? Join a fast-growing, innovative company at the cutting edge of crewed and uncrewed aircraft technology.
With fresh investment and a leading role in UK Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS) development, this company delivers advanced platforms, services, and technical solutions. As they enter their next growth phase, they are looking for a talented Lead Design Engineer to take the lead on mechanical and structural design projects within a collaborative, multi-disciplinary environment.
In this role, you'll contribute across the full product lifecycle—from early concepts through to final delivery—helping to solve complex engineering challenges in a fast-paced, evolving sector.
Your Role
As a Lead Design Engineer, you will:
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Lead small engineering teams to deliver innovative mechanical designs and systems integration
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Drive the design, testing, and delivery of mechanical systems for both crewed and uncrewed aircraft
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Work across key focus areas including:
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Structural and composite design
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Electro-mechanical and propulsion integration (electric, ICE, gas turbines)
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Payload and system integration
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Loom and cable routing
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Design for manufacture and production support
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Plan and oversee subsystem and full-vehicle testing
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Liaise with supply chain partners and respond to manufacturing and configuration queries
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Mentor and support junior engineers, offering technical guidance and coaching
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Collaborate with internal teams, customers, and suppliers to ensure project success
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Champion safety, quality standards, and continuous improvement
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Contribute to team planning and recruitment alongside Engineering Leads
What You Bring
Essential:
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Proven experience in mechanical or aerospace engineering
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Strong leadership and mentoring abilities
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A track record of technical delivery across full engineering lifecycles
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Confident communicator with experience engaging stakeholders
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Advanced CAD skills (ideally SolidWorks)
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In-depth understanding of Design for Manufacture (DfM)
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Able to apply first-order engineering calculations to support design decisions
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Skilled in writing reports, technical documentation, and conducting design reviews
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Experience reviewing and approving drawings, models, and technical reports
Desirable:
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Experience in composite structural design and testing
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Integration/testing of mechanical, electrical, or avionics systems
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Familiarity with propulsion systems (electric, ICE, or small gas turbines)
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Knowledge of 3D printing, CNC machining, or composite manufacturing
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Background in tooling/jig design
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Exposure to aerospace regulatory or production environments
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Understanding of systems engineering in aerospace contextsBefore You Apply
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Looking for your next career move? Join a top company hiring Lead Design Engineer job near me in Gillingham, Dorset! This is your chance to work on exciting projects, grow professionally, and enjoy a rewarding career with competitive pay and excellent benefits. Whether you're an experienced professional or looking to take the next step, this role offers the perfect opportunity to enhance your skills and make an impact. Don’t miss out—apply today via Vita CV and take your career to the next level!
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