At a Glance
- Tasks: Develop an innovative demolition robotic system with teleoperation and autonomous control.
- Company: Leonard, a leading company in the refractory industry with over 30 years of experience.
- Benefits: Generous training budget, free management training, and postgraduate study opportunities.
- Other info: 26-month fixed-term role with potential for permanent position upon successful completion.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in robotics while gaining valuable skills and career acceleration.
- Qualifications: Honours degree in relevant engineering or computer science fields with project management experience.
The predicted salary is between 27000 - 34000 £ per year.
Ulster University and Leonard
School: School of Computing, Engineering and Intelligent Systems
Business Location: Leonard, 11 Tullyveagh Road, Cookstown, Co. Tyrone, BT80 8RY
Salary: £27,000 - £34,000 per annum
Closing Date: Monday 21st September 2026 at 23:00
Reference Number: 043646 (Full-time / Fixed-term for 26 Months)
THE BUSINESS
Leonard is a UK and Ireland-based company established for over 30 years that specialises in, but is not limited to, the refractory industry. Innovating the market with tailor-made solutions per client and improving the industry with safety-driven installations.
Operating within:
- Cement & Lime Industry
- Power Plants
- Biomass
- Waste to Energy
- Aluminium
- Civil Industries
THE ROLE
Leonard, in partnership with Ulster University, has established a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) Project and is offering an exciting opportunity for an ambitious and highly motivated Engineering or Computer Science graduate to work as a KTP Associate to oversee the development of a new autonomous system.
KTP PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The KTP Associate will undertake the task of developing a demolition robotic system with both teleoperation and autonomous control based on 3D scanning and data-centric technologies. The role involves utilising skills in mechanical design, prototyping, and electrical/electronic hardware integration. It also involves working with stakeholders (academics and industry) and managing the project to create a robust system to support the growth of Leonard. The Associate will need to advocate for the project's importance and convince stakeholders of its value, thus highlighting the potential benefits it brings to the business, targeted development partners and clients.
BENEFITS
This KTP project provides a unique opportunity to apply your knowledge and skills to a real industry challenge whilst benefitting from industrial and academic supervision and mentoring from Ulster University’s experts Dr Justin Quinn, Dr Dermot Kerr and Prof Sonya Coleman who will enhance your technical expertise in robotics, autonomous control, and data science. As a KTP Associate, you will also acquire new skills in strategic leadership that can help to supercharge your career.
Additional benefits include:
- Generous £13k Training, Development, equipment & Travel Budget dedicated to project delivery, which includes but is not limited to training and courses to enhance research skills as well as for critical networking with key players in the field, specific project equipment, etc.
- FREE formal management training and development.
- FREE University postgraduate part-time study opportunities at Ulster University (where appropriate).
- 10% Associate development time built into work plan.
- Opportunity to work with academics to develop scientific articles to be published in peer-reviewed, world-class academic journals.
- Competitive salary.
- Enhanced skills and experience that are marketable and highly transferable.
- KTPs accelerate careers.
ABOUT YOU
Applicants should hold an honours degree in Computer Engineering, Automation Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical/Electronic Engineering, Mechatronic Engineering or a closely related discipline at 2:1 or above. The Associate should have good skills and experience in three or more of the following areas:
- Product development and use of design software development tools/technologies
- Application systems development and programming
- Data processing and analysis
- Managing and delivering projects in a professional environment
- Knowledge and experience of using research methods (and understanding of qualitative and quantitative research) and/or being involved in research
Further information can be found in the Candidate Briefing Document. The appointment will be for a period of 26 Months and although the post is administratively linked to the University, the Associate will be based at the Company’s premises in Cookstown. Successful completion of the KTP may lead to a new position within the company partner at the end of the project period. Both Leonard and Ulster University are Equal Opportunities employers. The University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applicants from all sections of the community, particularly from those with disabilities. Appointment will be made on merit.
Development Engineer (KTP Associate) in Cookstown employer: Ulster University
As a leading University in Belfast, we pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative and inclusive work culture that prioritises employee growth and innovation. Our commitment to advancing gender equality and supporting a family-friendly environment, alongside competitive salaries and flexible working options, makes us an exceptional employer for those passionate about making a meaningful impact in the Digital Healthcare sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Development Engineer (KTP Associate) in Cookstown
✨Join Engineering Meetups!
Get yourself along to local engineering meetups or tech conferences. These are great places to connect with like-minded folks and industry leaders who might just have a lead on that full-time Development Engineer (KTP Associate) role you’re after at Ulster University.
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✨Engage with Online Communities
Dive into engineering forums and online communities, like Reddit or specific engineering Discord channels. Sharing your insights, asking questions, and being active can help you build connections that might lead to job opportunities at Ulster University.
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We think you need these skills to ace Development Engineer (KTP Associate) in Cookstown
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Expertise:When applying for an engineering role like Development Engineer (KTP Associate), 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 Ulster University 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 Ulster University 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 Ulster University
✨Brush Up on Core Engineering Principles
Before heading into the interview with Ulster University, 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 Ulster University 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.
