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- Tasks: Design advanced armoured vehicle systems and take ownership of full lifecycle product development.
- Company: Join NP Aerospace, a leader in global armour technology with over 40 years of expertise.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, flexible hours, and a half-year discretionary bonus.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by designing protective systems for defence in challenging environments.
- Qualifications: Degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent experience; proficiency in 3D CAD required.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to innovation and performance.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 ÂŁ per year.
Job Title: Design Engineer – Armoured Vehicles L ocation: 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: £3 5,000-£45,000 (subject to experience)
At NP Aerospace, we don’t just design for innovation – we design to protect lives.
We’re looking for a Design Engineer to develop advanced, mission‑critical armoured vehicle systems used across global defence platforms. This role is central to how we protect lives in the field, you won’t be maintaining legacy drawings but creating engineered solutions that are deployed in some of the toughest environments in the world.
You’ll thrive here if you enjoy hands‑on engineering, solving real‑world design challenges, and taking full ownership across the product lifecycle. Working in a fast‑paced and highly technical environment, you’ll influence everything from 3D design and materials selection to manufacturability and integration. If you’re passionate about designing equipment that makes a genuine difference, this could be the perfect role for you.
What’s in it for you?
At NP Aerospace, we know our success comes from our people. That’s why we invest in benefits that support your health, reward your hard work, and help you grow your career:
- 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 Cadet volunteers (including 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 take ownership of designing armoured vehicle systems from concept through to low‑ and medium‑volume production. You’ll create advanced 3D CAD models, ensuring each design meets strict performance, weight, cost, and safety requirements for real‑world deployment.
You’ll work closely with Engineering, R&D, Fabrication, and Manufacturing teams to translate concepts into robust, manufacturable solutions. You’ll manage BOMs and drawings through our PLM system (Windchill), support vehicle integration activities, and contribute to testing, evaluation, and iterative product improvements.
As part of a specialist engineering team, you’ll play a key role in shaping next‑generation defence technology with plenty of variety, hands‑on problem solving, and opportunities to influence final design outcomes.
What you’ll bring
We’re looking for someone who brings strong engineering capability, practical problem‑solving, and a passion for high‑performance design. You’ll ideally have:
- A degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent hands‑on engineering experience
- Experience in defence, aerospace, automotive, or another high‑integrity engineering environment
- Proficiency in 3D CAD – SolidWorks is essential; experience with Creo is a strong advantage
- Practical understanding of fabrication, machining, and composite materials
- A hands‑on mindset with the ability to solve complex technical problems
- Strong communication and collaboration skills when working across engineering teams
- Bonus: Chartered Engineer (CEng) status or actively working towards 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.
Notice
If successful, you will be required to sign the Official Secrets Act before you can begin your employment with NP Aerospace.
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Design Engineer - Armoured Vehicles employer: NP Aerospace, Ltd.
Contact Detail:
NP Aerospace, Ltd. Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Design Engineer - Armoured Vehicles
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the defence and engineering sectors, especially those who work at NP Aerospace. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that a job description just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! If you’ve got a portfolio of your 3D CAD designs or any projects related to armoured vehicles, make sure to have it ready. Visuals can speak louder than words and really showcase what you can bring to the table.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into NP Aerospace’s projects and values. Knowing their mission to protect lives will help you align your answers with what they care about, making you a more attractive candidate.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of the NP Aerospace team.
We think you need these skills to ace Design Engineer - Armoured Vehicles
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Skills: When you're writing your application, make sure to highlight your experience with 3D CAD, especially SolidWorks. We want to see how your skills align with the hands-on design work we do at NP Aerospace.
Tailor Your Application: Don’t just send a generic CV and cover letter. Tailor them to reflect your understanding of our mission to protect lives through innovative design. Show us why you’re the perfect fit for the Design Engineer role!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate straightforward communication, so avoid jargon and focus on what makes you a great candidate for designing armoured vehicles.
Apply Through Our Website: Make sure to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity in Coventry.
How to prepare for a job interview at NP Aerospace, Ltd.
✨Know Your CAD Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in SolidWorks, as it’s a must for this role. Brush up on your 3D design skills and be ready to discuss specific projects where you’ve used CAD to solve complex problems.
✨Understand the Defence Sector
Familiarise yourself with current trends and challenges in the defence industry, especially related to armoured vehicles. This will show your passion for the field and help you connect your experience to their mission of protecting lives.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your hands-on approach to engineering challenges. Be ready to discuss how you’ve balanced weight, cost, and performance in past projects, as this is crucial for real-world deployment.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the team dynamics, project timelines, and the technologies they use. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the company culture aligns with your values.
