At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative defence engineering projects and tackle complex technical challenges.
- Company: Join a leading R&D facility with a focus on defence and aerospace.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, competitive salary, private medical insurance, and generous pension contributions.
- Other info: Great career growth opportunities and a supportive, collaborative work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in defence technology while shaping the future of engineering.
- Qualifications: Degree in Engineering or related field; experience in defence or aerospace preferred.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 € per year.
Security Clearance: Eligibility for UK Security Clearance required
Contract Type: Permanent, Full-Time
About the Role
NCC is seeking an experienced Principal Research Engineer to provide senior technical leadership within its Defence portfolio. The role spans delivery of complex, cutting‑edge research and development, addressing a diverse range of highly technical challenges with accountability for technical outcomes across the full engineering lifecycle. Operating as a senior technical authority and trusted advisor, you will shape engineering strategy, provide technical assurance, and support programmes spanning all defence domains, including air, land, maritime, space and digital. The role demands strong professional judgement, a high degree of autonomy, and the ability to integrate multidisciplinary engineering activity within highly regulated, safety and security critical environments.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide senior technical leadership across complex, multi‑disciplinary defence engineering programmes, taking accountability for technical direction, coherence, and quality of outputs.
- Operate as a technical authority across the full engineering lifecycle, including early concept development, trade studies, requirements flow-down, detailed design, verification, validation, and certification activities.
- Contribute to defence‑related innovation, ensuring alignment with UK strategic priorities and secure technology development.
- Collaborate with industry partners, government stakeholders, and academia to accelerate technology readiness and industrial adoption.
- Review, challenge, and assure engineering data packs, design substantiation, test evidence, and technical documentation.
- Mentor junior engineers and researchers, fostering technical excellence and collaborative growth.
- Represent NCC credibly as a Principal Research Engineer within defence and aerospace forums, forming part of the organisation’s technical leadership community.
- Uphold stringent security, export control, and information assurance requirements across all activities.
So, what are we looking for?
- Degree (or Higher qualification) in Engineering, Materials Science, or a related discipline.
- Experience delivering complex engineering work within defence, aerospace, or similarly regulated industrial sectors.
- UK National with eligibility to obtain and maintain Security Clearance (SC).
- Strong understanding and practical application of systems engineering principles, including requirements management, trade studies, interface definition, and design assurance.
- Strong understanding of composite materials, their design, processing, and performance characteristics.
- Proven capability in engaging and influencing senior technical and non‑technical stakeholders, including customers and programme leadership.
- Excellent communication, stakeholder engagement, and project leadership skills.
Desirable but Non-essential Attributes
- Chartered Engineer status or working towards it.
- Background in defence programmes.
- Experience in thermal protection systems and high temperature materials.
- Understanding of 3D textile technologies such as weaving, braiding, or embroidery for composite applications.
- Experience working across industry and with government bodies.
- Knowledge of digital design tools, simulation software, and automated manufacturing systems.
- Aware of emerging defence technologies, digital engineering, or advanced manufacturing approaches.
What do we offer in return?
Hybrid and flexible working as standard, annual salary reviews, company paid private medical insurance, up to 12.5% employer pension contribution, great people, honorary staff status at the University of Bristol. With a genuine focus on wellbeing, EDI and learning and development this is a chance to build your career in a thriving R&D facility with a bright future.
Closing date for applications 23:59 Sunday 24th May 2026 - If you are interested please don't wait for the closing date to apply as we retain the right to close applications early depending on the quality and volume of candidates.
Principal Research Engineer - Defence in Bristol employer: NCC – Innovating for Industry
NCC is an exceptional employer for those seeking to make a significant impact in the Defence sector. With a commitment to employee wellbeing, flexible working arrangements, and robust professional development opportunities, you will thrive in a collaborative environment that values innovation and technical excellence. Located in a thriving R&D facility, you will have the chance to work on cutting-edge projects while enjoying benefits such as private medical insurance and generous pension contributions.
Contact Detail:
NCC – Innovating for Industry Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Research Engineer - Defence in Bristol
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with folks in the defence sector. Attend industry events, join relevant online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your expertise! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to highlight your experience with complex engineering projects. Share specific examples of how you've tackled challenges in the past, especially those that align with the role of Principal Research Engineer.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your technical knowledge and current trends in defence technology. Be ready to discuss systems engineering principles and how they apply to real-world scenarios. This will show that you're not just a candidate, but a thought leader in the field.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged. So, hit that apply button and let’s get you one step closer to landing that dream job!
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Research Engineer - Defence in Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Principal Research Engineer role. Highlight your experience in defence engineering and any relevant projects you've worked on. We want to see how your skills align with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this role and how your background makes you the perfect fit. Don’t forget to mention your eligibility for UK Security Clearance!
Showcase Your Technical Expertise:In your application, be sure to showcase your understanding of systems engineering principles and any experience with composite materials. We’re looking for someone who can lead complex engineering programmes, so let us know how you’ve done that before!
Apply Early!:Don’t wait until the closing date to apply! We might close applications early if we find the right candidates. Head over to our website and submit your application as soon as you can – we can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at NCC – Innovating for Industry
✨Know Your Engineering Fundamentals
Brush up on your systems engineering principles and be ready to discuss how you've applied them in past projects. This role demands a strong understanding of requirements management and design assurance, so be prepared to share specific examples that highlight your expertise.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Principal Research Engineer, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to lead multidisciplinary teams. Think of instances where you've taken charge of complex projects or mentored junior engineers. Highlight your communication skills and how you've influenced stakeholders in previous roles.
✨Stay Current with Defence Innovations
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends and technologies in defence and aerospace. Be ready to discuss how these innovations align with UK strategic priorities. Showing that you’re engaged with emerging technologies will set you apart as a candidate who is forward-thinking and proactive.
✨Prepare for Technical Challenges
Expect to face technical questions that assess your problem-solving abilities. Review case studies or scenarios related to composite materials and thermal protection systems. Practising how to articulate your thought process will help you convey your technical authority effectively during the interview.
