At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to develop and test next-gen military vehicle systems.
- Company: NP Aerospace, a leader in armour technology and vehicle integration.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, flexible hours, generous holiday, and career growth opportunities.
- Other info: Dynamic team culture focused on innovation and collaboration.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by transforming engineering concepts into life-saving solutions.
- Qualifications: Engineering qualification and hands-on problem-solving skills required.
Location: Coventry, UK
Core Hours: 08:00-16:35 (Mon – Thu) 08:00-15:10 (Fri)
Vacancy Type: Permanent, full time and based on-site. Potential hybrid working but subject to operational needs.
Salary: £40,000-£50,000 (subject to experience)
About the role
Help bring the next generation of military vehicle systems from concept to reality. We're looking for a Prototype and Test Engineer to join our growing Armoured Vehicles team, supporting the development, integration and validation of innovative vehicle systems and protection solutions. This is an exciting opportunity to work at the heart of product development, helping transform engineering concepts into proven, tested solutions that protect those operating in the world's most demanding environments.
You'll thrive in this role if you enjoy hands-on engineering, problem-solving and seeing products develop from early concepts through to testing and validation. Working alongside experienced engineers, technicians and project teams, you'll gain exposure to the full product development lifecycle while playing a key role in shaping future vehicle capabilities. If you enjoy variety, practical engineering and working on products that genuinely save lives, this could be the perfect role for you.
What you’ll get in return
- Performance rewards – discretionary bonus opportunities
- Flex your day – flexible start and finish times (subject to manager approval and operational needs)
- Time to recharge – 25 days’ holiday + 8 bank holidays, with the option to buy more through our Holiday Purchase Scheme
- Support for Defence – two weeks’ paid leave for Reservists and Cadets, plus paid leave for Cadet Force Adult Volunteers (CFAVs)
- Future security – competitive pension scheme (9% combined employer/employee contributions)
- Peace of mind – life cover at 3x base salary
- Health & wellbeing first – BHSF Cash Healthcare Plan to support everyday health costs
- Grow with us – career development and advancement opportunities within a global business
- Supportive environment – a team culture built on innovation, collaboration, and purpose
What you’ll be doing
In this role, you'll support the engineering team in delivering vehicle and protection system development projects, helping take products from concept through prototype build and validation. You'll be heavily involved in trial activities, prototype builds and testing programmes, giving you the opportunity to see engineering designs evolve into real-world solutions.
You'll create test plans, coordinate testing activities and work with both internal teams and external suppliers to ensure components, assemblies and systems are evaluated effectively. This will allow you to develop valuable experience in product validation, engineering development and project delivery within a defence environment.
You'll also work with engineering drawings, CAD models and Bills of Materials, helping ensure designs are correctly interpreted and prepared for build and test activities. Exposure to systems such as Creo, SolidWorks, Windchill and QAD will provide excellent opportunities to broaden your technical capability across design, manufacturing and product lifecycle management.
Working closely with engineers, technicians and project teams, you'll contribute to solving technical challenges, supporting product improvements and helping deliver innovative vehicle systems that meet demanding customer requirements.
What we’re looking for
We're looking for someone who combines practical engineering capability with a hands-on, proactive approach to problem solving. You'll ideally have:
- Apprentice-trained and/or Degree, HNC or HND qualified in an engineering discipline
- Experience within manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, defence or similar engineering environments
- Previous experience as a Test Engineer, Test Technician, Mechanical Engineer or Mechanical Technician
- Ability to interpret engineering drawings and technical documentation
- Experience interrogating 3D CAD models and engineering drawings
- Strong understanding of workshop practices and engineering fundamentals
- Excellent communication and teamwork skills
- A practical, hands-on approach with a willingness to support prototype builds and testing activities
Desirable
- Experience using Creo and/or SolidWorks
- Experience using PLM systems such as Windchill or EPDM
- Experience using ERP systems such as QAD
- Experience supporting prototype development, validation or product testing programmes
Our team embraces modern technologies, including AI-assisted tools, to work smarter and deliver better results. Candidates should either have experience using AI tools or demonstrate a willingness to learn and apply them in their role.
What do we do at NP Aerospace?
NP Aerospace is a global leader in armour technology manufacturing and vehicle integration, delivering high-performance, lifesaving solutions for the defence and security industry. Our mission is to improve and protect lives, and our vision is to be a leading provider of innovative solutions that solve our customers’ complex challenges. Our values – Respect, Collaboration, Integrity, and Dedication – form the bedrock of our culture.
Our extensive range of combat-proven body armour – from ballistic helmets, plates, and shields to bomb disposal suits – incorporates some of the most advanced composite materials available. Alongside this, we design and deliver highly engineered vehicle systems and armour platforms used by some of the world’s largest defence organisations.
Founded in 1926, NP Aerospace has served the defence industry for over 40 years and continues to grow across the UK and North America.
Equal Opportunity Employer Statement
NP Aerospace is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
Data Privacy
NP Aerospace respects the privacy of all applicants. Personal information provided during the application process will be treated in accordance with our privacy policy and applicable data protection laws.
Please note: If successful, you will be required to sign the Official Secrets Act and successfully pass the necessary checks before you can begin employment with NP Aerospace.
Locations
Prototype and Test Engineer in Coventry, Longford employer: N P Aerospace Ltd
At NP Aerospace, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and innovative work culture that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. Located in Coventry, our team enjoys flexible working hours, generous holiday allowances, and a commitment to career development within a global leader in defence technology. Join us to make a meaningful impact by developing life-saving solutions while collaborating with experienced professionals in a dynamic environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Prototype and Test Engineer in Coventry, Longford
✨Join Engineering Meetups!
Get yourself along to local engineering meetups or tech conferences. These are great places to connect with like-minded folks and industry leaders who might just have a lead on that full-time Prototype and Test Engineer role you’re after at N P Aerospace Ltd.
✨Show Off Your Projects!
Don’t be shy about showcasing your engineering projects. Whether it’s a funky app, a mechanical design, or a complex algorithm, having a solid portfolio on platforms like GitHub can really make you stand out. Plus, it gives potential employers at N P Aerospace Ltd a taste of what you can bring to the table!
✨Engage with Online Communities
Dive into engineering forums and online communities, like Reddit or specific engineering Discord channels. Sharing your insights, asking questions, and being active can help you build connections that might lead to job opportunities at N P Aerospace Ltd.
✨Apply Through Company Websites
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We think you need these skills to ace Prototype and Test Engineer in Coventry, Longford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Expertise:When applying for an engineering role like Prototype and Test Engineer, 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 N P Aerospace Ltd 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 N P Aerospace Ltd 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!
Include Relevant Certifications:If you have any engineering certifications, especially ones that are recognised in your field, make sure to feature them prominently on your CV. They demonstrate not just your knowledge, but also your commitment to professional development, which is something we at StudySmarter value highly.
How to prepare for a job interview at N P Aerospace Ltd
✨Brush Up on Core Engineering Principles
Before heading into the interview with N P Aerospace Ltd, 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 N P Aerospace Ltd 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.
