About The Role
Bristol | Full Time | Hybrid Working
Shape the future of advanced composites and automation at the National Composites Centre (NCC).
We’re looking for a driven and technically curious Research Engineer to join our Automated Layup team at NCC in Bristol. This is an opportunity to be part of a cutting-edge group at the forefront of manufacturing innovation in the UK, pushing the boundaries of Automated Fibre Placement (AFP), Automated Pick and Place, and Automated Tape Laying (ATL).
Key Role Responsibilities:
- Act as project engineer on automation and composite manufacturing projects.
- Liaise closely with industrial customers to understand and deliver on technical challenges.
- Contribute to the development of the next generation of large-scale automated composite processing technology.
- Play a key role in mentoring and developing early-career engineers.
- Work within a highly collaborative, agile team environment.
What we are looking for in candidates:
- A degree-level qualification in a relevant engineering subject.
- Experience in aerospace or composite manufacturing environments.
- Previous experience of automated composite processing (AFP, ATL, textile handling)
- Knowledge of automation systems and working in agile R&D settings.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
- Fluent English (written and spoken).
Desirable:
- Scripting or simulation experience.
- Background in textile processing and/or digital manufacturing.
- Understanding of robotics.
- Appreciation for NC programming for robotic applications (composites preferred).
You’ll report to the Engineering Capability Lead for Automated Layup and work within our cross-functional Manufacturing Process group.
About The NCC
At NCC, we work at the leading edge of advanced composites research and innovation. Our mission is to help UK industry unlock the power of composites and high-value manufacturing — delivering real-world impact through collaboration, teamwork, and technical excellence. We're proud to foster an environment where innovation thrives and engineers are empowered to make a difference.
What we offer:
- Hybrid working options with a standard 37-hour working week.
- Generous pension and private healthcare.
- Access to cutting-edge facilities and professional development support.
Notes/Brief for Recruitment Team:
About The Company
Not sure you meet all the requirements? Let us decide! Research shows that women and members of other underrepresented groups tend not to apply for jobs if they think they may not meet every qualification, when in fact they often do. At NCC we are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment and strongly encourage you to apply.
We ensure that all hiring decisions are made without regard to age, race, national origin, sex, disability, gender, gender identity, religion, or any other protected characteristics, and will treat all applications with the strictest confidence. We’re always open to hearing how we can support flexible working in different ways, including part-time work. Please don’t be afraid to ask about what we can do to support your needs. All requests will be carefully and fairly considered. We wish you every success in your job search.
Why NCC?
We see our success in yours. The future of composites manufacturing relies on NCC, and we rely on the right individuals to make it happen, whether they’re engineers or not!
Diverse challenges – NCC isn’t just about aerospace. We’re working with over 16 sectors and a variety of customers, from private ventures to the global tier 1 companies, providing variety to your experience.
Innovation – a world-leading research and development centre, the work we do brings novel and innovative solutions to industry, with the future firmly in mind. So we need innovating thinking not just in Engineering, but across all support functions.
Development in composites, and you – if the scope of exciting work isn’t enough to sway you, our ethos of continued learning and development and flexible working patterns will.
We look forward to hearing from you.
