Instrumentation Engineer in Bedford

Aircraft Research Association (ARA) Ltd is a unique engineering SME. We are a leading specialist in model design and manufacture, aerodynamic testing and numerous associated technologies based around our transonic wind tunnel at our site in Bedford. We have a strong, rich heritage, with unique research capabilities involving many bespoke processes e.g. CFD – Computational Fluid Dynamics. We deliver innovative solutions and services to our global customer base through our high skilled engineering and aerodynamic professionals.

We are now recruiting an Instrumentation Engineer whose primary function will be to work within a multi‑skilled team to assemble, deploy and maintain the instrumentation hardware required to acquire data from the on‑site Transonic Wind Tunnel and other test facilities. You will also be expected to minimise the facility downtime by providing on‑site instrumentation support on a rotating shift system. Working on‑site in Bedford 5 days a week. The successful candidate will be expected to demonstrate the drive and commitment necessary for ensuring that work is completed in line with challenging schedule requirements whilst maintaining a clean, safe working environment.

To succeed in this position, you must be flexible in your approach to working hours, which will require shift working, and able to respond quickly to a changing workload. Typical hours Full-time, 40 hours per week, shift work (typical hours are 0700hrs – 1500hrs and 1400hrs – 2200hrs on a rotating weekly basis). Salary range £35,000 - £40,000 (depending on experience), Grade: 6.

Key duties and responsibilities:

• Manufacture instrumentation assemblies and cables using hand‑soldered joints on miniature conductors (typically 28AWG) in accordance with supplied specification.
• Low voltage electrical testing (not Automatic Test Equipment), fault‑finding and repair of cables, assemblies and sensors (planned and reactive maintenance).
• Installation of instrumentation in wind‑tunnel models and support systems in accordance with supervisory instructions.
• Connection of wind‑tunnel model instrumentation to facility data‑acquisition system in accordance with test requirements.
• Create and maintain work records as appropriate and to promote seamless shift hand‑over.
• Work in both laboratory and industrial environments (Working at heights and in confined spaces).
• Be responsible for providing on‑site instrumentation support on a rotating shift system.
• Assist in the operation of the company’s main transonic wind tunnel and other aerodynamic test facilities.
• General departmental duties such as record maintenance, model storage, organisation of equipment, rig maintenance.

We are looking for someone with:

• Time‑served electronics technician / engineer or equivalent working experience.
• Basic electronic theory.
• Experience of working with Thermocouples / Platinum Resistance Thermometers.
• Experience of working with Pressure Transducers / Electronic Pressure Scanners.
• Ability to interpret wiring lists and schematics.
• Obtain and maintain UK Government Security Clearance.
• Dexterous with attention to detail in quality of work produced.
• Flexible in approach to working hours including shift working.
• Mobility & fitness to allow safe entry, working and egress in those areas of the test facilities which have restricted physical access and necessitate working at heights and in confined spaces.
• Self‑motivated team member willing to inspire others.

Training will be given in all of the specialist activities associated with this position.

Security clearance: The successful candidate must satisfy security clearance requirements – including the last 5 years continual UK residency.

Equal Opportunities: Aircraft Research Association Ltd is proud to be an Equal Opportunities Employer. We recognise the value in an inclusive and diverse workforce and we welcome applications from all suitably qualified people.