At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the development of automated test systems for cutting-edge unmanned target products.
- Company: Join QinetiQ Target Systems, a leader in innovative defence technology.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, generous holidays, and flexible working hours.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace culture with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic environment with advanced technology.
- Qualifications: Degree in Electronics Engineering and experience with TestStand and LabVIEW.
The predicted salary is between 52200 - 63800 £ per year.
We are recruiting for a Principal Test Development Engineer to join QinetiQ Target Systems (QTS) within our Engineering Team. QTS is a wholly owned subsidiary of QinetiQ Group PLC, specialising in the design and manufacture of a range of state-of-the-art Unmanned Aerial and Surface Target systems, including the world-leading Banshee target. QTS targets are used to enable realistic weapons test and evaluation and operator training in over 40 countries worldwide, with QTS providing a complete managed service in over 15 of these countries.
The Role
As a Principal Test Development Engineer, you will play a critical role in ensuring the reliability, performance and future development of automated test capability supporting QinetiQ Target Systems' world-leading unmanned aerial and surface target products. Day-to-day, you'll lead the development and evolution of automated test systems, support production-critical test equipment, work closely with design and manufacturing teams, and provide technical leadership within a specialist engineering discipline. You'll have the opportunity to shape future test strategy while remaining hands-on with complex electronic and software-based test solutions.
- Maintaining and enhancing existing NI-based Automated Test Equipment (ATE) systems
- Leading the design, development and verification of automated test solutions using TestStand, LabVIEW and FlexStand
- Designing test fixtures and commissioning new test capability for products and subsystems
- Working with engineering teams to embed Design for Test (DFT) principles into new product development
- Mentoring and supporting engineers while providing technical leadership within the test function
- Developing documentation, processes and future test strategies to support production and new product introduction
Essential experience of the Principal Test Development Engineer:
- Strong hands-on experience with TestStand and automated functional test systems
- Experience developing solutions using LabVIEW
- Proven background in Automated Test Equipment (ATE) design, support or test development
- Electronics engineering knowledge including the ability to understand schematics
- Experience within a production or manufacturing environment
- Experience using instrumentation such as oscilloscopes, DMMs, signal generators and data acquisition equipment
Essential qualifications for the Principal Test Development Engineer:
- Degree in Electronics Engineering or a related engineering discipline
- Demonstrable experience working with TestStand-based test environments
- Certified Teststand Developer or Certified Teststand Architect status is desirable
We value difference and we don't have a fixed idea when it comes to background or education, provided you can show the required level of experience and willingness to learn then we would like to hear from you.
This role is 37 hours per week based at our Ashford site with a minimum average site attendance of five days per week. We offer flexible working hours to fit alongside your personal situation and you'll benefit from a 13:30PM finish on Fridays.
At QinetiQ we are committed to building an inclusive, accessible and welcoming workplace where everyone feels valued and supported. We believe that a diverse mix of backgrounds, perspectives and experiences drives innovation and leads to better outcomes for our people, customers and communities. We encourage applications from all candidates and are a disability confident committed employer. If you have a disability or need any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know by emailing internal_recruitment@qinetiq.
Our Benefits
- Matched contribution pension scheme, with life assurance
- Generous holiday allowance, with the option to purchase additional days
- Options to join Health Cash Plan, Private Medical Insurance and Dental Insurance
- Employee discount portal: Personal Accident Insurance, Travel Insurance, Restaurants, Cinema Tickets and much more
- We are proud to support the Armed Forces community by honouring the Armed Forces Covenant and maintaining our Gold Award standard in the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme
- Volunteering Opportunities - helping charities and local community
Locations
Principal Development & Test Engineer in Ashford, Kent employer: QinetiQ
At QinetiQ, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment at our Boscombe Down facility, where innovation meets defence technology. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through our inclusive culture, competitive benefits, and opportunities for professional development, ensuring that every team member feels valued and empowered to contribute to meaningful projects that protect lives. Join us and be part of a diverse team that thrives on collaboration and creativity, all while enjoying the unique advantages of working at a site renowned for its aviation and aerospace capabilities.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Development & Test Engineer in Ashford, Kent
✨Join Engineering Meetups!
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✨Engage with Online Communities
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✨Apply Through Company Websites
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We think you need these skills to ace Principal Development & Test Engineer in Ashford, Kent
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Expertise:When applying for an engineering role like Principal Development & Test Engineer, it’s essential to highlight your technical skills. Include any relevant software or tools you're proficient in on your CV—think CAD software, simulation tools, or programming languages. Don't skimp on any engineering projects you've worked on that demonstrate your ability to solve complex problems.
Focus on Results and Impact:In the engineering world, we love numbers and real-world impact. Quantify your achievements wherever possible—like reducing costs by a certain percentage, improving efficiency, or successfully completing a project ahead of schedule. This gives your future employers at QinetiQ a clear picture of the value you can bring.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to express your passion for engineering and explain why you’re drawn to QinetiQ specifically. Share what aspects of their work excite you and how your values align with theirs. This is your chance to show a bit of personality while keeping it professional!
Include Relevant Certifications:If you have any engineering certifications, especially ones that are recognised in your field, make sure to feature them prominently on your CV. They demonstrate not just your knowledge, but also your commitment to professional development, which is something we at StudySmarter value highly.
How to prepare for a job interview at QinetiQ
✨Brush Up on Core Engineering Principles
Before heading into the interview with QinetiQ, make sure you're solid on the fundamental engineering principles relevant to the role. Be ready to discuss concepts such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, or structural analysis, depending on the specifics mentioned in the job description. Don’t skip any hands-on projects or coursework; these can be excellent talking points!
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
Expect technical questions or case studies during your interview—after all, engineering is all about solving problems! Prepare a few examples of how you've tackled engineering challenges in the past, whether at university or in any practical experience. Practising with mock technical interviews can really help you articulate your thought process and solutions.
✨Relate Your Experience to the Role
In a full-time role, employers like QinetiQ want to see that you can adapt and grow within their team. Be ready to discuss how your previous internships, projects, or studies relate directly to the work you'll be doing. Highlight specific experiences that showcase your collaborative skills and how you've successfully worked within a team environment.
✨Know Your Tools and Software
Most engineering roles require familiarity with specific tools and software. Prepare to talk about your proficiency with programmes like AutoCAD, MATLAB, or SolidWorks if they’re relevant to the role. Even better, have examples of projects where you’ve used these tools, as it'll demonstrate your hands-on experience and readiness for the job.
