Research Engineer - Automated Layup (AFP/ATL/Pick & Place)
Research Engineer - Automated Layup (AFP/ATL/Pick & Place)

Research Engineer - Automated Layup (AFP/ATL/Pick & Place)

Bristol Full-Time 28800 - 43200 £ / year (est.) Home office (partial)
N

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Join our Automated Layup team to innovate in composite manufacturing and automation.
  • Company: NCC is a leader in advanced composites research, driving innovation across multiple sectors.
  • Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, generous pension, private healthcare, and access to cutting-edge facilities.
  • Why this job: Be part of a collaborative team pushing the boundaries of technology with real-world impact.
  • Qualifications: Degree in engineering, experience in aerospace or composites, and knowledge of automation systems required.
  • Other info: We encourage diverse applicants and support flexible working arrangements.

The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.

About The Role

Bristol | Full Time | Hybrid Working

Shape the future of advanced composites and automation at the National Composites Centre (NCC).

We\’re looking for a driven and technically curious Research Engineer to join our Automated Layup team at NCC in Bristol. This is an opportunity to be part of a cutting-edge group at the forefront of manufacturing innovation in the UK, pushing the boundaries of Automated Fibre Placement (AFP), Automated Pick and Place, and Automated Tape Laying (ATL).

Key Role Responsibilities:

  • Act as project engineer on automation and composite manufacturing projects.
  • Liaise closely with industrial customers to understand and deliver on technical challenges.
  • Contribute to the development of the next generation of large-scale automated composite processing technology.
  • Play a key role in mentoring and developing early-career engineers.
  • Work within a highly collaborative, agile team environment.

What we are looking for in candidates:

  • A degree-level qualification in a relevant engineering subject.
  • Experience in aerospace or composite manufacturing environments.
  • Previous experience of automated composite processing (AFP, ATL, textile handling)
  • Knowledge of automation systems and working in agile R&D settings.
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
  • Fluent English (written and spoken).

Desirable:

  • Scripting or simulation experience.
  • Background in textile processing and/or digital manufacturing.
  • Understanding of robotics.
  • Appreciation for NC programming for robotic applications (composites preferred).

You\’ll report to the Engineering Capability Lead for Automated Layup and work within our cross-functional Manufacturing Process group.

About the NCC

At NCC, we work at the leading edge of advanced composites research and innovation. Our mission is to help UK industry unlock the power of composites and high-value manufacturing – delivering real-world impact through collaboration, teamwork, and technical excellence. We\’re proud to foster an environment where innovation thrives and engineers are empowered to make a difference.

What we offer:

  • Hybrid working options with a standard 37-hour working week.
  • Generous pension and private healthcare.
  • Access to cutting-edge facilities and professional development support.

About The Company

Not sure you meet all the requirements? Let us decide! Research shows that women and members of other underrepresented groups tend not to apply for jobs if they think they may not meet every qualification, when in fact they often do. At NCC we are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment and strongly encourage you to apply.

We ensure that all hiring decisions are made without regard to age, race, national origin, sex, disability, gender, gender identity, religion, or any other protected characteristics, and will treat all applications with the strictest confidence. We\’re always open to hearing how we can support flexible working in different ways, including part-time work. Please don\’t be afraid to ask about what we can do to support your needs. All requests will be carefully and fairly considered. We wish you every success in your job search.

Why NCC?

We see our success in yours. The future of composites manufacturing relies on NCC, and we rely on the right individuals to make it happen, whether they\’re engineers or not!

Diverse challenges – NCC isn\’t just about aerospace. We\’re working with over 16 sectors and a variety of customers, from private ventures to the global tier 1 companies, providing variety to your experience.

Innovation – a world-leading research and development centre, the work we do brings novel and innovative solutions to industry, with the future firmly in mind. So we need innovating thinking not just in Engineering, but across all support functions.

Development in composites, and you – if the scope of exciting work isn\’t enough to sway you, our ethos of continued learning and development and flexible working patterns will.

We look forward to hearing from you. #fulltime #J-18808-Ljbffr

Research Engineer - Automated Layup (AFP/ATL/Pick & Place) employer: National Composites Centre

At the National Composites Centre (NCC) in Bristol, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that champions innovation and collaboration in advanced composites research. Our hybrid working model, generous benefits including private healthcare and a robust pension scheme, alongside a strong commitment to employee development, create a supportive environment where engineers can thrive and make a meaningful impact across diverse sectors. Join us to be part of a forward-thinking team dedicated to pushing the boundaries of manufacturing technology while fostering a culture of inclusivity and continuous learning.
N

Contact Detail:

National Composites Centre Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Research Engineer - Automated Layup (AFP/ATL/Pick & Place)

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with the latest advancements in Automated Fibre Placement (AFP) and Automated Tape Laying (ATL) technologies. This knowledge will not only help you during interviews but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the field.

✨Tip Number 2

Network with professionals in the aerospace and composite manufacturing sectors. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with potential colleagues and gain insights into the challenges they face, which can be useful for your application.

✨Tip Number 3

Showcase your experience with automation systems and agile R&D settings by preparing specific examples of past projects. Be ready to discuss how you contributed to team success and overcame technical challenges.

✨Tip Number 4

Highlight any mentoring or leadership experiences you have had, as this role involves developing early-career engineers. Being able to articulate your approach to mentoring can set you apart from other candidates.

We think you need these skills to ace Research Engineer - Automated Layup (AFP/ATL/Pick & Place)

Degree-level qualification in engineering
Experience in aerospace or composite manufacturing
Knowledge of Automated Fibre Placement (AFP)
Knowledge of Automated Tape Laying (ATL)
Experience with automated composite processing
Understanding of automation systems
Experience in agile R&D environments
Strong interpersonal skills
Excellent communication skills
Scripting or simulation experience
Background in textile processing
Understanding of robotics
Appreciation for NC programming for robotic applications

Some tips for your application 🫡

Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the key responsibilities and required qualifications. Tailor your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role of Research Engineer in Automated Layup.

Highlight Relevant Experience: Emphasise your experience in aerospace or composite manufacturing, particularly any work with automated composite processing like AFP, ATL, or textile handling. Use specific examples to demonstrate your expertise.

Showcase Communication Skills: Since strong interpersonal and communication skills are essential for this role, include examples of how you've effectively communicated technical information or collaborated with teams in previous positions.

Express Your Passion for Innovation: Convey your enthusiasm for advanced composites and automation. Discuss any relevant projects or research that showcase your curiosity and drive for innovation in the field.

How to prepare for a job interview at National Composites Centre

✨Understand the Role

Make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Research Engineer in Automated Layup. Familiarise yourself with terms like AFP, ATL, and Pick & Place, as well as the specific technologies and processes involved in composite manufacturing.

✨Showcase Relevant Experience

Prepare to discuss your previous experience in aerospace or composite manufacturing environments. Highlight any projects where you've worked with automated composite processing and how your skills can contribute to the NCC's goals.

✨Demonstrate Communication Skills

Since the role involves liaising with industrial customers, practice articulating complex technical concepts clearly and concisely. Be ready to provide examples of how you've successfully communicated with team members or clients in the past.

✨Emphasise Team Collaboration

The NCC values a collaborative environment, so be prepared to discuss your experience working in agile teams. Share examples of how you've contributed to team success and supported the development of early-career engineers.

Research Engineer - Automated Layup (AFP/ATL/Pick & Place)
National Composites Centre
N
  • Research Engineer - Automated Layup (AFP/ATL/Pick & Place)

    Bristol
    Full-Time
    28800 - 43200 £ / year (est.)

    Application deadline: 2027-07-30

  • N

    National Composites Centre

Similar positions in other companies
UK’s top job board for Gen Z
discover-jobs-cta
Discover now
>