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- Tasks: Design and develop innovative test rigs for aerospace certification and technology development.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking aerospace company with a focus on collaboration and innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy 26 days holiday, performance bonuses, and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in aerospace engineering while developing your skills in a hands-on role.
- Qualifications: Degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering and strong CAD skills required.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with excellent growth opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
We’re looking for a Test Rig Design Engineer to play a key role in delivering the physical test infrastructure that underpins our certification and technology development. This is a hands‑on, delivery-focused engineering role – owning test rigs from initial concept through to build, commissioning, and execution. You will take end-to-end ownership of rig development – capturing requirements, designing solutions, coordinating build and procurement, and ensuring successful delivery into operation.
What you’ll do
- Define structural test requirements in collaboration with Structures and Product teams
- Design and develop structural test rigs and fixtures from concept through to detailed design
- Produce high-quality 3D models and 2D drawings to support manufacturing and assembly
- Apply sound engineering judgement to ensure designs are practical, robust, and fit for purpose
- Ensure designs are manufacturable and aligned to GD&T and tolerance requirements
- Coordinate with internal teams and external suppliers to deliver rig hardware, actuators, and instrumentation
- Own make vs. buy decisions across rig components and assemblies
- Plan and drive rig build, assembly, and commissioning activities
- Provide hands‑on technical support during build, installation, and test phases
What you’ll bring
- Degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering (or similar)
- Experience in structural, aerospace, or tooling/fixture design
- Strong CAD capability (CATIA V5 / 3DEXPERIENCE or similar)
- Ability to produce and interpret 2D engineering drawings
- Experience designing metallic parts and assemblies in 3D environments
- Good understanding of GD&T and tolerance application
- Understanding of mechanical systems, joints, and kinematics
Nice to have
- Experience designing structural test rigs or fixtures
- Familiarity with aerospace testing methods and instrumentation
- Knowledge of tolerance stack‑up in assemblies
- Experience working with external suppliers or manufacturing partners
Our benefits
- 26 days holiday, plus bank holiday
- 5 extra days per year to buy (or sell)
- 5 extra days holiday when you get married or enter a civil partnership
- Additional 4% of your salary to spend on extra benefits
- Award‑winning digital health and wellbeing service (Help@Hand)
- Company performance based bonus - rewarding company and individual performance
- Company Share Scheme – open to every Vertical employee
- Company Pension Scheme – 5% and we match it
- Breakfast on us, every day
We encourage you to apply even if you may not have all the experience listed in the advert. We recognise that talent comes in various forms and we’re committed to creating an environment of growth, diversity, and inclusion for everyone. As part of our desire to review and make our processes fair, we may ask you questions related to these aspects during the application process. For more information on how we will use your data, see our Legal section.
Advanced Test Rig Design Engineer in Bristol employer: Vertical Aerospace Group Ltd
Contact Detail:
Vertical Aerospace Group Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Advanced Test Rig Design Engineer in Bristol
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your best work, especially any CAD designs or test rig projects you've completed. This will give potential employers a tangible sense of what you can bring to the table.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to test rig design and engineering principles. Be ready to discuss your past experiences and how they relate to the role you're applying for.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Advanced Test Rig Design Engineer in Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Skills: Make sure to highlight your experience in structural and aerospace design. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your CAD capabilities and any relevant projects you've worked on.
Tailor Your Application: Take a moment to customise your application for us. Use keywords from the job description to demonstrate that you understand what we’re looking for. This shows us you’re genuinely interested in the position and have done your homework!
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and get straight to the point about your qualifications and experiences. This makes it easier for us to see why you’d be a great fit!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Vertical Aerospace Group Ltd
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your mechanical and aerospace engineering principles. Be ready to discuss your experience with structural test rig design, CAD software like CATIA V5, and how you've applied GD&T in your previous projects.
✨Showcase Your Projects
Prepare to talk about specific projects where you took ownership of rig development. Highlight your role in defining requirements, designing solutions, and coordinating with teams. Use examples that demonstrate your hands-on experience and problem-solving skills.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Come prepared with questions that show your interest in the company and the role. Inquire about their current projects, the team dynamics, or how they approach make vs. buy decisions. This shows you're engaged and thinking critically about the position.
✨Be Ready for Technical Challenges
Expect some technical questions or scenarios during the interview. Practice explaining your design process, how you ensure manufacturability, and your understanding of mechanical systems. Being able to articulate your thought process will impress the interviewers.