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- Tasks: Design and develop protective vehicle systems using 3D CAD, collaborating with teams for optimal performance.
- Company: Join NP Aerospace, a leader in global armour technology with over 40 years of defence expertise.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, bonus, generous holiday, pension contributions, and healthcare plan.
- Why this job: Make a real-world impact by solving complex design challenges that protect lives on the front line.
- Qualifications: Degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent experience; CAD proficiency and defence sector experience preferred.
- Other info: Equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and supporting the Defence Community.
The predicted salary is between 28000 - 36000 £ per year.
Design protection that saves lives. Looking for a role where your engineering skills directly protect those on the front line? At NP Aerospace, this is your chance to work on advanced systems that deliver real-world impact.
As our next Design Engineer, you’ll play a hands-on role in the design, development and integration of protective components and vehicle systems used in some of the world’s most demanding military and security environments. This isn’t about maintaining legacy parts – it’s about solving complex design challenges from concept to production, in a team that values precision, innovation and mission-critical performance.
We work fast, support each other, and deliver engineering that matters. If you want to grow your career on real-life-saving projects, keep reading.
What’s in it for you?
- Join a growing business with serious purpose
- Work on high-impact defence engineering projects
- Salary of £35,000–£45,000, based on experience
- Half-year discretionary bonus
- 25 days’ holiday + bank holidays + holiday purchase scheme
- Two weeks’ paid leave for Reservists and Cadet volunteers
- 9% combined pension contributions
- Life cover (3x salary) and BHSF cash healthcare plan
What you’ll be doing:
- Designing and developing vehicle protection systems using 3D CAD (we use Creo – SolidWorks is a bonus).
- Collaborating with cross-functional teams to ensure structural integrity, performance and ease of manufacture.
- Managing BOMs and drawings via PLM (Windchill preferred).
- Balancing cost, weight and strength targets to deliver practical, field-ready systems.
- Taking designs from concept to production in low- to medium-volume manufacturing.
What we’re looking for:
- A degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent practical experience.
- Engineering experience in defence, aerospace or automotive sectors.
- Proficiency in CAD and drawing creation (Creo preferred).
- A practical understanding of fabrication, machining and composite materials.
- Someone who can balance technical design with real-world performance.
- Chartered status (CEng) is a bonus – or be on the path to it.
About NP Aerospace
We’re a global armour technology company with over 40 years of defence expertise. From ballistic plates and bomb suits to armoured vehicles and helmets, our products are trusted by some of the world’s most respected defence organisations. Innovation, protection and performance are at the heart of everything we do.
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. We welcome applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of race, colour, national origin, gender, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, or any other legally protected status. All employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs. We are also fully committed to supporting the Defence Community and actively advertise roles on Defence specific platforms such as CTP, Force Families, Forces Employment Charity, and Veterans Job Board.
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 before you can begin your employment with NP Aerospace.
Locations
Design Engineer employer: N P Aerospace Ltd
Contact Detail:
N P Aerospace Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Design Engineer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific software mentioned in the job description, particularly Creo. If you haven't used it before, consider taking an online course or tutorial to get a basic understanding of its functionalities.
✨Tip Number 2
Research NP Aerospace and their projects in the defence sector. Understanding their mission and recent developments can help you tailor your conversations during interviews and show your genuine interest in their work.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with professionals in the defence engineering field. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with current employees or others in similar roles, which could provide insights and potentially lead to referrals.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss real-world applications of your design experience. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've tackled complex design challenges in previous roles, especially those related to vehicle systems or protective components.
We think you need these skills to ace Design Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in mechanical engineering, particularly in defence, aerospace, or automotive sectors. Emphasise your proficiency in CAD software, especially Creo, and any experience with composite materials.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for engineering and how your skills align with the role of Design Engineer at NP Aerospace. Mention specific projects or experiences that demonstrate your ability to solve complex design challenges.
Highlight Team Collaboration Skills: Since the role involves working with cross-functional teams, include examples in your application that illustrate your ability to collaborate effectively. Discuss any past experiences where teamwork led to successful project outcomes.
Showcase Problem-Solving Abilities: In your application, provide examples of how you've tackled design challenges in previous roles. Highlight your approach to balancing cost, weight, and strength targets in your designs, as this is crucial for the position.
How to prepare for a job interview at N P Aerospace Ltd
✨Showcase Your CAD Skills
Since the role requires proficiency in 3D CAD, particularly Creo, be prepared to discuss your experience with CAD software. Bring examples of your previous work or projects where you used CAD to solve design challenges.
✨Understand the Defence Sector
Familiarise yourself with current trends and challenges in the defence, aerospace, and automotive sectors. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your understanding of the industry and how your skills can contribute to the company's mission.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions related to mechanical engineering principles, materials, and manufacturing processes. Brush up on your knowledge of fabrication, machining, and composite materials to confidently answer these queries.
✨Emphasise Team Collaboration
The job involves working with cross-functional teams, so be ready to share examples of how you've successfully collaborated with others in past projects. Highlight your communication skills and ability to balance technical requirements with team dynamics.
