At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead complex trials for explosives and munitions, ensuring safety and efficiency.
- Company: Cranfield University, a leader in technology and management education.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working options, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Join a diverse and inclusive community committed to your growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in defence and commercial sectors while advancing your career.
- Qualifications: Military qualification in ammunition or equivalent experience required.
Organisation: Cranfield University
Faculty or Department: Faculty of Engineering and Applied Sciences
Based at: Off Campus
Hours of work: 37 hours per week, normally worked Monday to Friday. Flexible working will be considered.
Contract type: Permanent
Salary: Full time starting salary is normally in the range of £48,760 to £58,664 per annum with potential progression to £71,050 per annum.
Apply by: 31/07/2026
Role Description: COTEC is an outstation of Cranfield Defence and Security within the Faculty of Engineering and Applied Sciences and is located on Salisbury Plain south of Devizes. The site carries out a large range of tasks primarily based around the testing and evaluation of explosives, ordnance and munitions for defence and commercial customers. The site also carries out research and supports the research projects of Cranfield University students.
About the Role: As a Senior Trials Conducting Officer (STCO) you will lead the planning, delivery and reporting of complex explosives, ordnance and munitions trials for defence and commercial customers. You will be responsible for ensuring trials are conducted safely, efficiently and in accordance with regulatory and COTEC procedures, while producing high-quality technical reports and delivering effective customer solutions. As a senior technical specialist, you will provide guidance to colleagues, deputise for the Operations Manager when required, contribute to training activities, and support quality and business development initiatives. This role requires strong technical expertise, excellent organisational and communication skills, and the ability to manage complex projects and adapt to changing operational requirements.
About You: You will have a recognised military qualification in ammunition and explosives, or equivalent relevant technical experience, with significant demonstrable experience in the firing, testing and evaluation of explosives, ordnance and munitions across a range of environments. You will have proven experience of managing and supervising technical activities, analysing trial data and producing detailed technical reports. You will have an in-depth understanding of ammunition systems, range procedures and health and safety requirements, with the ability to operate effectively in a safety-critical environment. You will demonstrate strong communication, organisational and problem-solving skills, with the confidence to lead complex trials, manage competing requirements and work collaboratively with customers, colleagues and stakeholders. A degree in a relevant science subject, membership of a relevant professional body, and experience working with instrumentation, research facilities or industrial partners would be desirable.
About Us: As a specialist postgraduate university, Cranfield's world-class expertise, large-scale facilities and unrivalled industry partnerships are creating leaders in technology and management globally.
Our Values and Commitments: Our shared, stated values help to define who we are and underpin everything we do: Ambition; Impact; Respect; and Community. We aim to create and maintain a culture in which everyone can work and study together and realise their full potential. We are a Disability Confident Employer and proud members of the Stonewall Diversity Champions Programme. We are committed to actively exploring flexible working options for each role and have been ranked in the Top 30 family friendly employers in the UK by the charity Working Families.
Working Arrangements: Collaborating and connecting are integral to so much of what we do. Our Working Arrangements Framework provides many staff with the opportunity to flexibly combine on-site and remote working, where job roles allow, balancing the needs of our community of staff, students, clients and partners.
How to apply: For an informal discussion about this opportunity, please contact Geoff Bunn, Operations Manager COTEC.
Senior Trials Coordinator in Cranfield employer: Cranfield University
Cranfield University is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that encourages innovation and collaboration within the Faculty of Business and Management. With flexible working arrangements and a strong focus on employee development, staff are empowered to grow their skills while making a meaningful impact on students' entrepreneurial journeys. The university's commitment to fostering a vibrant academic community makes it an attractive place for those passionate about teaching and mentoring the next generation of entrepreneurs.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Trials Coordinator in Cranfield
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We think you need these skills to ace Senior Trials Coordinator in Cranfield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Expertise:When applying for an engineering role like Senior Trials Coordinator, it’s essential to highlight your technical skills. Include any relevant software or tools you're proficient in on your CV—think CAD software, simulation tools, or programming languages. Don't skimp on any engineering projects you've worked on that demonstrate your ability to solve complex problems.
Focus on Results and Impact:In the engineering world, we love numbers and real-world impact. Quantify your achievements wherever possible—like reducing costs by a certain percentage, improving efficiency, or successfully completing a project ahead of schedule. This gives your future employers at Cranfield University a clear picture of the value you can bring.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to express your passion for engineering and explain why you’re drawn to Cranfield University specifically. Share what aspects of their work excite you and how your values align with theirs. This is your chance to show a bit of personality while keeping it professional!
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How to prepare for a job interview at Cranfield University
✨Brush Up on Core Engineering Principles
Before heading into the interview with Cranfield University, make sure you're solid on the fundamental engineering principles relevant to the role. Be ready to discuss concepts such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, or structural analysis, depending on the specifics mentioned in the job description. Don’t skip any hands-on projects or coursework; these can be excellent talking points!
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
Expect technical questions or case studies during your interview—after all, engineering is all about solving problems! Prepare a few examples of how you've tackled engineering challenges in the past, whether at university or in any practical experience. Practising with mock technical interviews can really help you articulate your thought process and solutions.
✨Relate Your Experience to the Role
In a full-time role, employers like Cranfield University want to see that you can adapt and grow within their team. Be ready to discuss how your previous internships, projects, or studies relate directly to the work you'll be doing. Highlight specific experiences that showcase your collaborative skills and how you've successfully worked within a team environment.
✨Know Your Tools and Software
Most engineering roles require familiarity with specific tools and software. Prepare to talk about your proficiency with programmes like AutoCAD, MATLAB, or SolidWorks if they’re relevant to the role. Even better, have examples of projects where you’ve used these tools, as it'll demonstrate your hands-on experience and readiness for the job.
