Lead Engineer

Job Title: Lead Engineer

Location: Coventry, UK

Core Hours: 08:00-16:35 (Mon–Thu) 08:00-15:10 (Fri).

Vacancy Type: Full-time, 6 month Contract and onsite

Salary: £45,000 - £55,000 per annum FTC OR £350 - £375 per day contract (subject to experience)

About the role

We’re looking for immediately available Lead Engineers to play a critical role in delivering the next generation of military vehicle systems. This is an exciting opportunity to join NP Aerospace at a time of significant growth, supporting global vehicle programmes, and future mobility developments with international defence partners. You’ll thrive in this role if you’re passionate about innovative engineering, technically credible across electro-mechanical systems, and motivated by delivering solutions that directly protect those who protect us. If you’re ready to shape the future of protected mobility and make a genuine real-world impact, this could be the perfect role for you.

Contract Options

We’re offering two engagement routes, depending on how you want to work:

• £45,000 - £55,000 per annum on a Fixed-Term Contract (FTC) with NP Aerospace – including full employee benefits (see below)
• £350 - £375 per day if you join as a Ltd Company Contractor (outside IR35)

What you’ll get in return

At NP Aerospace, we know our success comes from our people. That’s why we invest in benefits that support your health, reward your hard work, and help you grow your career:

• Performance rewards – discretionary bonus opportunities
• Flex your day – flexible start and finish times (subject to manager approval and operational needs)
• Time to recharge – 25 days’ holiday + 8 bank holidays, with the option to buy more through our Holiday Purchase Scheme
• Support for Defence – two weeks’ paid leave for Reservists and Cadets, plus paid leave for Cadet Force Adult Volunteers (CFAVs)
• Future security – competitive pension scheme (9% combined employer/employee contributions
• Peace of mind – life cover at 3x base salary
• Health & wellbeing first – BHSF Cash Healthcare Plan to support everyday health costs
• Grow with us – career development and advancement opportunities within a global business
• Supportive environment – a team culture built on innovation, collaboration, and purpose

What you’ll be doing

In this role, you’ll take overall technical ownership of assigned vehicle system projects ensuring designs meet customer specifications, regulatory requirements, and the highest standards of quality, safety, and performance. You’ll guide engineering solutions from concept through validation, balancing performance, manufacturability, reliability, and long-term supportability. You’ll collaborate closely with the Chief Engineer, Project Managers, Design Office, and cross-functional teams to resolve technical challenges, manage engineering change, and support prototype build, testing, and qualification activities. Your leadership will ensure robust validation, effective root-cause resolution, and continuous improvement across production and in-service platforms. You’ll also engage directly with customers supporting technical reviews, prototype evaluations, and bid activity while producing high-quality engineering documentation and manufacturing data packs that enable successful delivery across complex defence programmes.

What we’re looking for

We’re looking for someone who combines strong technical engineering expertise with leadership capability, systems thinking, and a collaborative mindset. You’ll ideally have:

• Degree (or equivalent) in an engineering or related discipline
• Experience within defence, aerospace or automotive engineering
• Strong understanding of electro-mechanical and/or mechanical system architecture
• Knowledge of fabrication, machining and composite materials
• Hands-on, practical problem-solving mindset with a focus on manufacturability and quality
• Experience with configuration management, change control, and systems engineering principles
• 3D CAD modelling, CAE, or simulation experience
• Knowledge of UK MoD processes, AESPs, or defence contracting environments
• Experience supporting bids, proposals, or complex programme delivery

What do we do at NP Aerospace?

NP Aerospace is a global leader in armour technology manufacturing and vehicle integration, delivering high-performance, lifesaving solutions for the defence and security industry. Our mission is to improve and protect lives, and our vision is to be a leading provider of innovative solutions that solve our customers' complex challenges. Our values - Respect, Collaboration, Integrity, and Dedication form the bedrock of our culture. Our extensive range of combat-proven body armour, from ballistic helmets, plates, and shields to bomb disposal suits, highlights some of the most advanced composite materials. With a team of R&D engineers working on next-generation solutions, we also excel in highly engineered vehicle systems and armour platforms used by some of the world’s largest defence organisations. Founded in 1926, NP Aerospace has served the defence industry for over 40 years, evolving into an agile and diverse company. Our Business Development team is expanding both in the UK and North America.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement : NP Aerospace is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We welcome applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of race, colour, national origin, gender, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, or any other legally protected status. All employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs. We are also fully committed to supporting the Defence Community and actively advertise roles on Defence specific platforms such as CTP, Force Families, Forces Employment Charity, and Veterans Job Board.

Data Privacy: NP Aerospace respects the privacy of all applicants. Personal information provided during the application process will be treated in accordance with our privacy policy and applicable data protection laws. Please note: If successful, you will be required to sign the Official Secrets Act and successfully pass the necessary checks before you can begin your employment with NP Aerospace.