At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead flight test activities and develop innovative test strategies for advanced airborne training.
- Company: Join Draken, a leader in Electronic Warfare training at Bournemouth International Airport.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, global opportunities, and a culture of integrity and excellence.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to fairness and respect.
- Why this job: Make a direct impact on military readiness while working with cutting-edge technology.
- Qualifications: Experience in flight testing and strong collaboration skills required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 € per year.
Be at the forefront of airborne Electronic Warfare training with Draken. Draken is seeking an exceptional Lead Flight Test Engineer to join our growing team at Bournemouth International Airport. This is a rare opportunity to play a critical role at the cutting edge of Electronic Warfare (EW) and Operational Readiness Training, supporting the UK Ministry of Defence and NATO allies worldwide. At Draken, we don’t just operate aircraft — we deliver mission‑critical capability.
Our work directly enables military aircrew and ground radar operators to train as they will fight, using some of the most advanced and representative airborne EW effects available today.
Your work will directly support the continued evolution of next‑generation EW training systems, ensuring Draken remains the partner of choice for complex, high‑end defence training. Working hand‑in‑hand with our Design Office, maintenance teams, and test pilots, you will lead flight test programmes from concept through to delivery, both in the UK and across global deployment locations. You will also play a key role in navigating regulatory and certification landscapes, securing the approvals required to conduct safe, effective, and compliant flight testing.
The Lead Flight Test Engineer role is a flying role. When not conducting flight test duties and depending on previous qualifications, opportunities to conduct Operational Readiness Training as a rear crew may be available in a variety of aircraft and roles.
Draken Europe combines advanced technology, a highly capable fleet, and exceptional people to deliver aviation solutions that matter. Our teams operate at the intersection of engineering excellence, operational realism, and global defence collaboration.
- Direct impact on front‑line military readiness
- Exposure to complex flight test programmes
- Opportunities to work across a wide range of aircraft platforms
- A culture built on Integrity, Service, Excellence, and Team Work
- Working alongside some of the most experienced EW and aviation specialists in the industry
- A genuinely global aviation career
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the safe and effective delivery of flight test activities in the UK and at deployed locations worldwide
- Plan and conduct airborne and ground flight testing as a Lead Flight Test Engineer
- Develop and own test strategies, test plans, and test procedures
- Maintain close collaboration with the Design Office, including participation in design and technical safety reviews
- Develop and manage certification plans in support of flight test requirements
- Produce clear, high‑quality flight test reports
- Actively manage flight test risk to ALARP and tolerable levels
- Ensure full regulatory compliance, cultivating trusted relationships with the UK CAA and other regulatory authorities
Essential Experience
Inclusion means having a voice - and equality means that your voice is heard. At all our sites internationally, every member of the Draken team is accountable to ensure that we are all treated fairly and with respect. Intolerance has no place in our Company. We condemn it outright. Instead, we strive to create a culture where each person who joins our team feels they have the opportunity to succeed, to grow, and to work within an environment where they can be themselves.
We are also an Armed Forces friendly organisation, and as part of our commitment to the Armed Forces Covenant, welcome applications from veterans and services spouses and partners who meet the criteria in our job specifications. In line with our Disability Confident Commitments, we provide reasonable adjustments to facilitate our interview process; please liaise with us if any reasonable adjustments are required.
About Us
Whether it is adversarial support, electronic attack or customised rotary-wing training, we offer the most accurate and advanced readiness training in the industry. Our vast, differentiated fleet, cutting edge hardware and experienced instructors are engaged to help your mission take off. Being ready is not only a matter of when, but where. We provide services in the UK, US and across the NATO countries, making sure that our allies can manoeuvre around defeat and prepare to prevail.
Lead Flight Test Engineer employer: Draken Europe
Draken is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity for the Lead Flight Test Engineer to work at the forefront of Electronic Warfare training at Bournemouth International Airport. With a culture built on integrity, service, excellence, and teamwork, employees benefit from exposure to complex flight test programmes, opportunities for global deployment, and a commitment to personal growth and inclusivity. Join a team of experienced aviation specialists dedicated to delivering mission-critical capabilities that directly impact military readiness.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Flight Test Engineer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at Draken through LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral, which can really boost your chances.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your technical knowledge related to flight testing and Electronic Warfare. We want to see your passion and expertise shine through, so be ready to discuss your previous experiences in detail.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! As a Lead Flight Test Engineer, you'll need to demonstrate how you've successfully led teams or projects in the past. Share specific examples that highlight your ability to manage risk and ensure safety.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining the Draken team.
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Flight Test Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Lead Flight Test Engineer role. Highlight your relevant experience in flight testing, engineering, and any specific projects that align with our work at Draken. We want to see how your skills can contribute to our mission!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about Electronic Warfare and how your background makes you a perfect fit for our team. We love hearing personal stories that connect to our mission.
Showcase Your Team Spirit:At Draken, teamwork is key! In your application, mention experiences where you've collaborated with others, especially in high-pressure environments. We want to know how you can contribute to our culture of integrity and excellence.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our company there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Draken Europe
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Electronic Warfare and flight testing. Familiarise yourself with Draken's fleet and the specific aircraft you'll be working with. Being able to discuss technical details confidently will show that you're serious about the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Lead Flight Test Engineer, you'll need to demonstrate strong leadership abilities. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully led teams or projects, especially in high-pressure environments. This will help illustrate your capability to manage flight test activities effectively.
✨Understand Regulatory Compliance
Since navigating regulatory landscapes is crucial for this role, make sure you understand the basics of UK CAA regulations and any other relevant authorities. Be ready to discuss how you've ensured compliance in previous roles, as this will highlight your attention to detail and commitment to safety.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street, so prepare some thoughtful questions about Draken's operations, team culture, and future projects. This not only shows your interest in the company but also helps you gauge if it's the right fit for you. Plus, it gives you a chance to engage with the interviewers on a deeper level.
