Materials and Process Engineer

Job Description

Engineer / Technologist – Materials & Process

Location: [Not specified]
Contract Type: Full-Time, Permanent
Salary: Competitive (Grade not specified)
Security Clearance Required: BPSS
Visa Sponsorship: Eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship under UK immigration rules

About the Role

We’re seeking a motivated Engineer or Technologist to join our Materials & Process team, contributing to a diverse range of engineering projects. You’ll play a key role in evaluating materials, optimising manufacturing processes, and supporting defect analysis and cost-reduction initiatives.

This position supports both short- and long-term projects, with a particular focus on materials and processes related to propeller manufacturing. You’ll also collaborate with laboratory teams for material testing and analysis.

Key Responsibilities

Material Selection & Evaluation

• Identify and assess materials based on performance, cost, and safety
• Evaluate material properties including strength, durability, corrosion resistance, and thermal performance

Process Development

• Develop and optimise manufacturing processes
• Collaborate with design and production teams to ensure alignment with technical specifications

Testing & Analysis

• Conduct testing on materials and processes to ensure industry compliance
• Analyse results and recommend design/process improvements

Problem Solving

• Troubleshoot material and process issues during product development or manufacturing
• Implement corrective actions to resolve defects and inefficiencies

Documentation & Reporting

• Prepare technical reports, specifications, and compliance documentation
• Maintain accurate records of tests, evaluations, and certifications

Compliance & Standards

• Ensure all materials and processes comply with environmental, safety, and regulatory standards
• Stay up-to-date with advancements in materials science and industry trends

Collaboration

• Work closely with cross-functional teams (design, manufacturing, suppliers)
• Support decision-making around materials and processes
• Assist lab staff with incoming material testing and blade defect analysis

Continuous Improvement

• Identify opportunities for process improvements and cost reduction
• Participate in lean manufacturing initiatives

Supplier Engagement

• Evaluate, qualify, and liaise with suppliers to ensure material quality and availability

Safety & Quality Focus

• Prioritise safety in all aspects of materials and process decisions
• Ensure manufacturing processes contribute to consistent, high-quality output

Essential Skills & Experience

Materials Science Expertise

• Knowledge of metals, composites, polymers, ceramics and their engineering applications
• Experience in material selection for performance, durability, and cost efficiency

Manufacturing Process Knowledge

• Hands-on experience with manufacturing operations
• Familiarity with process optimisation for efficiency and quality

Testing & Failure Analysis

• Proficient in mechanical and chemical material testing methods
• Strong analytical skills for defect root cause analysis

Regulatory Compliance

• Understanding of industry standards and regulatory frameworks
• Experience ensuring materials meet environmental, safety, and quality requirements

Problem Solving & Troubleshooting

• Demonstrated success in resolving material/process-related production issues

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Experience working alongside design and stress engineers on product alignment

Lean Manufacturing & Continuous Improvement

• Familiarity with lean principles such as waste reduction and standardisation

Project Support

Ability to contribute to or manage materials/process-related projects

Software Proficiency

Strong Microsoft Office and IT skills

Technical Communication

Skilled in writing technical documents and communicating with suppliers and internal teams

Qualifications

A Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or related discipline

OR a relevant HND/diploma with manufacturing or engineering experience

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience with aerospace composite manufacturing (e.g. RTM, hand layup, vacuum bagging)

Tooling design and mold preparation experience

Desired Characteristics

Strong understanding of composites including carbon and glass fibre, resin systems

Knowledge of aerospace manufacturing techniques (AFP, RTM, autoclave, etc.)

Proficiency with simulation and optimisation tools for composite designs

Flexible Working & Benefits

At GE Aviation, we support flexible working arrangements and believe in fostering a healthy work-life balance.

We offer a comprehensive Total Reward package through our FlexChoice benefits programme, which includes:

Non-contributory pension scheme

Life assurance

Group income protection

Private medical insurance

26 days’ annual leave (hourly equivalent), with buy/sell flexibility

Security Clearance

This role requires Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) clearance. For further information, visit:
BPSS Clearance Details

Right to Work

Applications from candidates requiring UK visa sponsorship are welcome and will be considered equally. However, where a qualified UK-based applicant is available, sponsorship may not be offered.
For further details, see:
UK Visas and Immigration – Skilled Worker Visa

Interested in joining a world-class team that drives innovation in materials and processes? Apply now and help shape the future of aerospace engineering.