Materials Engineer (Non-Metallics) in Bristol

We have an exciting opportunity for a Materials Engineer (Non-Metallic) to join our Bristol team, supporting a next generation engine programme for the Defence sector. This role sits within the Defence Strategy and Future Programmes organisation and will be part of a dynamic integrated product team, working closely with design, materials and manufacturing engineers with functional alignment to Materials Engineering.

This is a key role where you will lead the identification, testing and qualification of candidate non-metallic materials for new engine hardware, with a specific focus on ceramics and ceramic matrix composites (CMCs). You will drive structured test and qualification plans, build strong relationships with suppliers and partners, and help mature materials and processes from development through to application.

Why Rolls-Royce? Rolls-Royce is one of the most enduring and iconic brands in the world and has been at the forefront of innovation for over a century. We design, build and service systems that provide critical power to customers where safety and reliability are paramount. We are proud to be a force for progress, powering, protecting and connecting people everywhere. We want to ensure that the excellence and ingenuity that has shaped our history continues into our future and we need people like you to come and join us on this journey.

This role sits within our Bristol site, supporting technology delivery and materials capability for Defence Strategy and Future Programmes. We'll provide an environment of caring and belonging where you can be yourself. An inclusive, innovative culture that invests in you, gives you access to an incredible breadth and depth of opportunities where you can grow your career and make a difference.

You’ll be joining a collaborative, forward-thinking team where your insight and expertise will be valued. You’ll have opportunities to influence technical decisions, shape materials and process strategies for future engine technologies, and progress your career with training and development support in one of the UK’s most respected engineering businesses.

What we offer: We offer excellent development opportunities, a competitive salary, and exceptional benefits. These include bonus, employee support assistance and employee discounts. Your needs are as unique as you are. Hybrid working is a way in which our people can balance their time between the office, home, or another remote location. It’s a locally managed and flexed informal discretionary arrangement. Due to the nature of work you will be expected to be on site a minimum of 4 days per week in this role.

What you will be doing: With this attractive opportunity you will get a chance to:

• Design and execute test plans for screening and qualification of non-metallic materials and processes.
• Test, evaluate and down-select candidate materials for next generation engine applications, focusing on high-temperature solutions.
• Assess the impact of manufacturing processes on material performance and repeatability.
• Coordinate external partners, including suppliers, universities and specialist test houses.
• Develop and maintain materials and process specifications and supporting technical documentation.
• Analyse data, characterise materials, and produce clear technical reports to support engineering decisions.
• Work within an integrated product team to support introduction and standardisation of materials and manufacturing routes.

Who we’re looking for: At Rolls-Royce we put safety first, do the right thing, keep it simple and make a difference. These principles form the behaviours that guide us and are an essential component of our assessment process. They are the fundamental qualities that we seek for all roles.

To be successful in this role you will need to:

• Be qualified to degree level (or equivalent) in Materials, Mechanical Engineering, Chemistry, or a related discipline (a Master’s or PhD is welcome).
• Demonstrate strong technical judgement and a structured, evidence-based approach to materials evaluation and selection.
• Be able to plan and execute technical work packages, managing priorities, risks and stakeholders.
• Have strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present technical information clearly.
• Be comfortable working with external organisations such as suppliers, universities and research partners.
• Enjoy working collaboratively in a multi-disciplinary environment with design, manufacturing and materials stakeholders.

Preferred / nice to have:

• Exposure to non-metallic materials used in aerospace or high-temperature applications, including composites and advanced material systems.
• Experience linking process, structure and properties, and using data to drive technical decisions.
• Familiarity with relevant processing and evaluation methods (for example surface preparation, machining, NDE, chemical processing and cleaning).
• Understanding of design and stress considerations for non-metallic materials.
• Ability to take technical ownership and support wider capability growth through knowledge sharing and continuous improvement.

To apply for this role, you must be able to obtain SC clearance without any caveats to that clearance. Rolls-Royce will support the application for Security Clearance if you don’t currently already have this in place. Due to the nature of work the business conducts and the protection of certain assets, you must hold a UK nationality. Any dual nationals will require additional scrutiny and background checks prior to commencing work.

We are an equal opportunities employer. We’re committed to developing a diverse workforce and an inclusive working environment. We believe that people from different backgrounds and cultures give us different perspectives which are crucial to innovation and problem solving. We believe the more diverse perspectives we have, the more successful we’ll be. By building a culture of caring and belonging, we give everyone who works here the opportunity to realise their full potential.

As part of our selection process, candidates in certain locations may be asked to complete an online assessment, which can include cognitive and behavioural aptitude testing relevant to the role. If required, full instructions for the next steps will be provided.