Lead FEM Engineer

Lead FEM Engineer Location: Filton (hybrid) Contract: 12‑Month Contract (Inside IR35) A fantastic opportunity has arisen for an experienced FEM & Digital Engineer to join a dynamic Wing Engineering environment on a 12‑month contract. The successful candidate will play a key role in developing FE loads strategy, delivering structural enablement, and driving innovative digital and simulation projects within a highly collaborative multifunctional setting. This position operates at Wing level across multiple major programmes, contributing directly to current and future aircraft wing development. Why This Contract? Work at the centre of Wing engineering strategy and development Apply and develop cutting‑edge numerical simulation techniques Contribute to the evolution of existing Wing programmes and the Wing of the Future Influence the development of new digital ways of working within a modern engineering framework Key Responsibilities Structural & FE Analysis Support the development of GFEM and DFEM models across various programmes Run, analyse, and interpret FE results, validating stress data and offering design solutions optimised for weight, cost, performance, and manufacturability Deliver static and fatigue analysis enablement in line with required quality standards Produce and enhance new GFEM and DFEM modelling approachesDigital & Process Innovation Deliver digital solutions that optimise structural analysis and enablement processes Contribute to new, modernised ways of work aligned with advanced digital engineering strategies Challenge existing methods and propose innovative, efficient approachesLeadership & Collaboration Act as a focal point for FE and digital activities at Wing level, defining priorities, identifying risks, and proposing mitigations Engage with internal stakeholders across functions and support a collaborative engineering culture Report operationally to the Engineering Team Leader and functionally to senior engineers and subject matter experts Skills & Experience Required Essential Degree in Aerospace Engineering or related discipline Significant professional experience in FEM and aerospace structures Strong knowledge of Hyperworks, HyperMesh, and MSC Nastran Experience with idealisation of Wing structural components using FEM Understanding of engineering policies, processes, and airworthiness‑aligned analysis standardsDesirable FEM Signature delegation Competence with ISAMI Experience working with UNIX-based platforms Strong communication skills with the confidence to challenge technical requirements and propose improvement A collaborative team player with a dynamic, proactive attitude Fluent English at negotiation level (written and verbal) Ready to Take the Next Step? This is a unique opportunity to contribute to major aerospace wing development while shaping future digital engineering approaches. If you are an experienced FEM specialist ready for a challenging and rewarding contract, we\’d love to hear from you. This vacancy is being advertised by Belcan