At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead technology development for innovative aerospace projects and shape the future of manufacturing.
- Company: Join NCC, a pioneering organisation bridging academia and industry in aerospace innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, competitive salary, private medical insurance, and generous pension contributions.
- Other info: Be part of a thriving R&D facility with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in aerospace technology while collaborating with top experts in the field.
- Qualifications: Engineering degree or equivalent experience, with strong project management and technical knowledge.
The predicted salary is between 64122 - 77183 £ per year.
Join to apply for the Technology Development Lead - Aerospace role at NCC – Innovating for Industry.
Location: Bristol based with Hybrid working
Salary: £64,122 - £77,183 Depending on Experience + Benefits
Closing Date: 25th January 2026 – We reserve the right to close this advert early if required.
About the role:
As demand grows, we are expanding our Technology Team and recruiting a Technology Development Lead who will be accountable for the development of strategic technologies in support of the overall business strategic priorities. This specific role will be to take responsibility for the technology development needed to support the growing Aerospace portfolio at the NCC. This pivotal role will help shape, specify and deliver the next generation of manufacturing technologies needed to support future aircraft programmes. Reporting to the Head of Technology Development, your role will support the strategic relationships with key partners and stakeholders, both nationally and internationally, to ensure the NCC is well positioned at the creation stage of large, influential strategic initiatives. You will also be accountable for the delivery of identified projects and programmes in line with the defined strategic objectives to time, cost and quality in line with processes.
What you’ll be doing:
- Head technology development programme/s (region and/or technology focused) utilising all relevant process and tools
- Help create technology roadmaps, in support of the NCC technology strategy
- Actively support the internal and external communication of technology activities and achievements
- Provide technical oversight, directly or in partnership with the relevant Chief Engineer or Technologist
- Support the NCC Technology Team in horizon scanning to identify strategic development prospects and/or partnership that can enable the NCC to mature existing, and/or foster nascent, market opportunities
- Support the NCC Strategy Team to ensure the wider NCC strategy and business planning is effective and reflective of changing landscapes and arising opportunities
So, what are we looking for?
- Significant technical knowledge of composites technology, its development and application across multiple sectors
- Engineering Degree or equivalent industrial experience
- Strong Technical project management experience
- Experience of complex, industry-led multi-partner programmes involving private and public sector organisations
- Significant experience of collaborative R&D programmes in an interdisciplinary environment (academia and industry)
- Management experience in a strategy & delivery role within an innovation-intensive industrial sector, consultancy, or public sector body
What do we offer in return?
Hybrid and flexible working patterns 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.
Who are NCC?
We bridge the gap between academia and industry, helping companies of all sizes to capitalise on cutting-edge innovations to deliver more. We do this at every stage of their journey and across the entire product lifecycle, from the earliest concept to end-of-life. Part of the High Value Manufacturing (HVM) Catapult and the University of Bristol, we’ve evolved from our origins as the National Centre of Excellence in composite technology. We provide a gateway to world-class expertise, advanced facilities, and industrial collaboration. A not-for-profit organisation, we leverage these assets to complement our customers’ capabilities, helping them to develop their people, grow, compete, and succeed through technology and product leadership. As well as working with industrial partners, we help create the conditions that enable UK innovators and industry to thrive. This includes providing national and local decision-makers with insight and evidence to inform strategy, policy, and investment decisions.
Seniority level: Mid-Senior level
Employment type: Full-time
Job function: Engineering and Project Management
Industries: Research Services
Technology Development Lead - Aerospace in Bristol employer: NCC – Innovating for Industry
NCC – Innovating for Industry is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Bristol with hybrid working options that promote a healthy work-life balance. Employees benefit from competitive salaries, comprehensive health insurance, and generous pension contributions, alongside a strong commitment to professional development and wellbeing. As part of a leading R&D facility linked to the University of Bristol, team members have unique opportunities to engage in cutting-edge projects that shape the future of aerospace technology while collaborating with industry leaders and academic experts.
Contact Details:
NCC – Innovating for Industry Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Technology Development Lead - Aerospace in Bristol
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the aerospace industry, attend events, and connect on LinkedIn. The more connections we have, the better our chances of landing that Technology Development Lead role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching NCC and their projects. We should know their technology strategies inside out so we can show how our skills align with their goals. Confidence is key!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase our experience with collaborative R&D programmes. We need to highlight any past projects that involved multiple partners, as this will resonate well with NCC's focus on interdisciplinary work.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure our application gets seen. Plus, we can tailor our submission to match the specific requirements of the Technology Development Lead position.
We think you need these skills to ace Technology Development Lead - Aerospace in Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Technology Development Lead role. Highlight your experience with composites technology and any relevant project management skills. We want to see how your background aligns 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 aerospace technology and how you can contribute to our team. Be sure to mention any collaborative R&D experience you've had.
Showcase Your Achievements:When filling out your application, don’t just list your responsibilities—show us what you’ve achieved! Use specific examples of projects you've led or technologies you've developed that relate to our strategic objectives.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for the best chance of getting noticed. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it reaches the right people!
How to prepare for a job interview at NCC – Innovating for Industry
✨Know Your Tech Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of composites technology and its applications across various sectors. Be ready to discuss specific projects you've worked on and how they relate to the role at NCC.
✨Showcase Your Project Management Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your technical project management experience, especially in complex, multi-partner programmes. Think about how you can demonstrate your ability to deliver projects on time, within budget, and to quality standards.
✨Understand the Bigger Picture
Familiarise yourself with NCC's strategic objectives and how the Technology Development Lead role fits into their overall mission. Be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to their technology roadmaps and support their innovation goals.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Since this role involves collaboration with key partners and stakeholders, think about how you can effectively communicate your ideas and experiences. Prepare to discuss how you've successfully managed relationships in previous roles, particularly in interdisciplinary environments.
