At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative projects in composite technology and solve complex engineering challenges.
- Company: Join Rolls-Royce, a leader in cutting-edge technology and innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, hybrid work options, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse and inclusive workplace that values your individuality.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the aerospace industry with your expertise in composites.
- Qualifications: Must have a relevant engineering degree and experience in composite materials.
The predicted salary is between 51750 - 63250 £ per year.
An exciting opportunity has arisen for the Composite Specialist recognised as an authoritative source of technical expertise and advice within a business area and as a functional expert by senior management across the business. May be a specialist with depth and/or breadth of knowledge in their own discipline or field or may be a specialist in Rolls-Royce’s products and solutions and how they are differentiated from the competition. Generates business benefits through the application of specialist technical knowledge beyond their immediate area of expertise, for example within a project or the wider industry. Represents a critical source of added value in their business, identifying opportunities to apply new capabilities and technologies in novel ways to current problems. Advances knowledge in their capability area in innovative ways.
Key Responsibilities
- Strategy: Supports the development and execution of the strategy with respect to their area of specialism; is regarded as a thought leader.
- Project Definition: Leads the definition of capability projects including capturing requirements, creating proposals, achieving stakeholder approval, acquiring funding and aligning partner support.
- Capability Development: Leads the development and application of new capabilities; leads capability development projects.
- Problem Solving: Leads the resolution of new and emerging technical, compliance and business problems using analytical processes and professional judgement.
- Collaboration: Proactively accesses internal and external networks of fellow specialists to further the understanding of the specialist subject; supports the implementation of strategic collaborative relationships.
- Leadership: Provides technical direction to peers and more junior professionals, and technical leadership to teams and projects within their specialism.
- People Capability: Supports the definition of skill and professional knowledge within their area of specialism; identifies, co-ordinates and delivers training; supports the development of other specialists; provides active mentoring.
- Standards Definition: Ensures appropriate policies, standards and best practices are defined, shared and adopted.
- Knowledge Sharing: Leads the sharing of Best Practice; represents the business area as an authority in their defined subject; provides concise justification for decisions; records and captures salient information in reports and systems.
- Foundation Capability: Follow the accountabilities contained within the Level D Test Facility, Systems & Equipment Job Profile with sufficient competency depth in area of specialism.
The specialist should improve the composite knowledge of RR and explore opportunities for composite applications in future Civil and Defence Engines, for example, in Fanblade technology.
Position Qualifications
- Professionally qualified Engineer (UK minimum BEng degree or other national equivalent, higher degree preferred).
- UK CEng (Chartered Engineer) or other national equivalent relevant to specialist subject area.
- Member of a relevant professional body/institute, typically working towards Fellow status (or equivalent).
- A deep understanding of specialist subject and proven ability to influence key decisions.
- Understanding of Intellectual Property and Export Control requirements.
Our vision is to ensure that the excellence and ingenuity that shaped our history continues into our future. Our multi-year transformation programme aims to turn Rolls-Royce into a high-performing, competitive, resilient and growing company. Join us, and it can be your future vision too.
Rolls-Royce is committed to being a respectful, inclusive, and non-discriminatory workplace where individuality is valued, diverse perspectives fuel innovation, and everyone can thrive.
Please be aware that priority will be given to employees identified as being at high risk. This job is advertised at the grades shown, and this is the desired operating level for this role. We encourage applications from candidates with relevant experience from any grade. It is advised that you inform your current manager of your application for this role.
Other Information
- Grade: Level C
- Closing Date: 20th August 2026
- People Leader: Robert Frank
- For further information, please contact: Jaspreet Bagga
- Job Category: Mechanical Systems
Rolls-Royce pioneers cutting-edge technologies that deliver the cleanest, safest and most competitive solutions to our planet’s vital power needs.
Composite Specialist employer: Rolls-Royce plc
Rolls-Royce plc is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where innovation and excellence are at the forefront. With a strong commitment to employee development, you will have access to extensive training opportunities and the chance to work on cutting-edge technology in the power generation sector. The supportive culture and focus on work-life balance make this role not only rewarding but also a great place to grow your career while travelling across the UK.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Composite Specialist
✨Get Your Hands Dirty at Engineering Events
Join local engineering meetups or industry conferences related to mechanical engineering. Whether it's a workshop or a career fair, these events are goldmines for networking and getting a foot in the door. Plus, you can showcase your passion and enthusiasm directly to potential employers like Rolls-Royce plc.
✨Connect with Professors & Peers
Tap into your university’s resources—professors often have connections in the industry. Don’t be shy to ask about potential openings or recommendations. Your classmates might also know of companies hiring. Often, it’s who you know that gets you in front of the right people!
✨Highlight Your Projects and Practical Experience
When you land those interviews, make sure to talk about your hands-on projects or internships. Whether it's a design project or hands-on experience with CAD software, specific examples will make you stand out. Companies like Rolls-Royce plc love to hear about practical applications of your skills.
✨Apply Directly on Company Websites
Check out the careers page of Rolls-Royce plc and apply directly through there. It shows initiative and interest in their specific values. Plus, you'll often find openings that aren't advertised on job boards, giving you a better chance to land that full-time gig!
We think you need these skills to ace Composite Specialist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Technical Expertise:In mechanical engineering, it’s vital to highlight your technical skills and projects. Make sure to include relevant software proficiency (like CAD tools) in your CV. If you've worked on specific engineering projects, detail your key contributions — we want to see how you’ve applied your skills in a practical setting!
Focus on Problem-Solving Examples:Employers in mechanical engineering love to see how you handle challenges. Use your cover letter to share specific instances where you’ve solved a complex problem or improved a design. This will show us you're not just knowledgeable but also capable of applying that knowledge effectively.
Highlight Relevant Certifications:Include any relevant certifications or training that can set you apart from the competition. Whether it's coursework from your degree, a recognised certification, or extra training in new technologies, we love to see candidates who continuously improve their skill set. This tells us you're serious about your career in engineering!
Tailor Your CV for the Role:Don’t forget to customise your CV for Rolls-Royce plc and the Composite Specialist role specifically. Pull examples from your experience that align with the job description — it shows us you've done your research and are genuinely interested in becoming part of the team. We recommend applying through our website to ensure your application gets to the right people!
How to prepare for a job interview at Rolls-Royce plc
✨Brush Up on Your CAD Skills
Since mechanical engineering often involves design processes, be ready to showcase your proficiency in CAD software like SolidWorks or AutoCAD. Bring along a digital portfolio or even some sketches that demonstrate your design capabilities — it’s a great way to show what you can bring to the table at Rolls-Royce plc.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions that test your understanding of engineering principles and problem-solving skills. You might get hypothetical scenarios where you need to design a component or troubleshoot a mechanical system. Practising these types of questions will give you the confidence to tackle whatever comes your way!
✨Show Your Team Spirit
As a full-time mechanical engineer, collaboration is key! Be ready to share examples of past team projects or any experiences where you contributed to solving a complex problem with others. Demonstrating your ability to work in a team will resonate well with the interviewers at Rolls-Royce plc.
✨Discuss Your Future Goals
Since this is a full-time position, your long-term vision is important. Be open about your career aspirations, whether it’s mastering a specific tool or leading projects. This shows that you're committed not just to learning but also to growing with Rolls-Royce plc, making you a more appealing candidate.
