At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the safe operation of a cutting-edge aerospace research test facility focused on hydrogen systems.
- Company: Join a prestigious university committed to diversity and innovation in aerospace research.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, inclusive culture, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: We value diversity and encourage applications from under-represented groups.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in aerospace research while ensuring safety and efficiency.
- Qualifications: Hands-on technical experience in engineering or research/test facilities is essential.
The predicted salary is between 49500 - 60500 £ per year.
We are seeking an experienced and safety-focused Test Facility Manager. Reporting to Professor Peter Ireland, you will take responsibility for the safe, reliable and efficient operation of a specialist aerospace research test facility, with a particular focus on hydrogen systems and associated experimental infrastructure. This is a hands-on technical and operational leadership role supporting cutting-edge aerospace research.
The postholder will manage complex facility systems, coordinate maintenance and improvement activities, lead local technical staff, and play a key role in ensuring that hydrogen testing can be undertaken safely and effectively.
You will have a strong hands-on technical background in the operation, maintenance or management of engineering, research/test facilities. You will be comfortable taking responsibility for safety-critical infrastructure and working collaboratively with a team of engineers, researchers and contractors. Experience of hydrogen or aviation fuel facilities would be particularly valuable. We also welcome candidates with transferable experience from sectors such as aerospace, energy, process engineering, gas systems, automotive testing, chemical engineering, industrial R&D, or other safety-critical engineering environments.
The position is a full-time permanent post. The closing date for applications is 12:00 noon on Wednesday 2nd September 2026. Applications are particularly welcome from women and black and minority ethnic candidates who are under-represented in academic posts in Oxford.
The Department is committed to equality and valuing diversity and holds an Athena Swan Bronze award, highlighting its commitment to promoting gender equality in academia. The University is a Living Wage Employer, holds an Athena Swan Silver Award, an HR Excellence in Research and a Race Equality Charter Bronze Award and is a Stonewall Diversity Champion. Our staff and students come from all over the world, and we seek to create a friendly and inclusive culture. Diversity is positively encouraged, through our EDI Committee, working groups and networks, as well as a number of family friendly policies.
Outdoor Test Facility Manager for Aerospace Research in Oxford employer: UK Space Jobs
As an Outdoor Test Facility Manager at our esteemed aerospace research institution, you will be part of a vibrant and inclusive work culture that prioritises safety and innovation. We offer competitive benefits, opportunities for professional growth, and a commitment to diversity, making it an excellent place for individuals passionate about advancing aerospace technology. Located in Oxford, you will enjoy a collaborative environment with access to cutting-edge research and a supportive community dedicated to fostering your career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Outdoor Test Facility Manager for Aerospace Research in Oxford
✨Join Aerospace Forums and Groups
Get involved in aerospace engineering forums and online communities, like the AIAA (American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics). It's a great way to meet industry peers and stay updated on job openings and trends in the field.
✨Attend Industry Conferences
Keep an eye on upcoming aerospace conferences and events where you can network with professionals and showcase your interest. Events like the Farnborough International Airshow are not just about flying machines; they're a goldmine for connections and potential job leads.
✨Spotlight Your Projects
Make sure to highlight any hands-on experience or projects on your portfolio that showcase your skills in aerospace engineering. Employers love seeing practical applications of theoretical knowledge. Show us what you've got!
✨Apply Directly on Company Websites
When you find companies you want to work for, head straight to their careers page to apply for full-time roles, like the one with UK Space Jobs for a Outdoor Test Facility Manager for Aerospace Research. This often puts your application in front of the right people faster than just waiting for job boards!
We think you need these skills to ace Outdoor Test Facility Manager for Aerospace Research in Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Technical Skills:When applying for the aerospace engineering role at UK Space Jobs, make sure to highlight your technical expertise. Include specific software skills, like CAD tools or simulation software, and any relevant engineering projects you’ve worked on. This is your chance to really shine and showcase your engineering toolkit!
Don't Skip Your Projects!:Include a section in your CV dedicated to projects that demonstrate your problem-solving abilities in aerospace engineering. Whether it's a university project, an internship, or personal work, we love seeing how you’ve applied your skills in real-world scenarios. Make it clear what your role was and the impact of the project.
Show Your Passion in Your Cover Letter:At UK Space Jobs, we're not just looking for skills – we want to know why you’re passionate about aerospace engineering. Use your cover letter to express what excites you about aviation technology and your career goals. Share any relevant experiences or inspirations that have led you to apply for this full-time position.
Tailor Your CV for Aerospace:Make sure your CV is specifically tailored to aerospace engineering. Focus on your education, any certifications, and your work experience, ensuring you highlight aspects that relate directly to the role. Don’t forget to mention any internships or apprenticeships that have given you hands-on experience.
How to prepare for a job interview at UK Space Jobs
✨Brush Up on Your Technical Knowledge
Aerospace engineering is all about technical precision, so make sure you’re comfortable with key concepts like aerodynamics, propulsion, and materials science. We recommend going through any relevant coursework or projects you’ve worked on – these real-world examples can illustrate your understanding during the interview with UK Space Jobs.
✨Showcase Your Projects with Confidence
Make sure to have a portfolio ready that details any significant projects you've worked on, whether it’s a group assignment or a personal endeavour. Be prepared to discuss the challenges you faced, the tools you used, like CAD software, and what you learned from the experience, as this will show your problem-solving skills in action.
✨Prepare for Technical Interviews
Expect some technical questions or even problem-solving exercises during your interview with UK Space Jobs. Get familiar with design challenges or theoretical problems related to aerospace; this can range from calculating lift and drag forces to materials selection under stress. Practising these can help you feel more at ease when faced with tricky questions.
✨Emphasise Your Passion and Teamwork Skills
As a full-time candidate, it’s crucial to convey your passion for aerospace engineering and your ability to work in teams. Highlight any group projects or internships you've done, focusing on how you collaborated with others to achieve a goal. Companies like UK Space Jobs love seeing candidates who not only have technical skills but also fit well within their team culture.
