Senior Research & Development Engineer

GKN Aerospace is reimagining air travel: going further, faster and greener! With over 16,000 employees globally, across 33 manufacturing sites in 12 countries we serve over 90% of the worlds aircraft and engine manufacturers. Whatever part you play youll be helping us deliver operational excellence to our customers. Established in 1993, GKN Aerospace in Luton is a world leader in commercial and military ice protection systems and transparencies. design, analysis, testing, certification and manufacture of electro-thermal ice protection, military fast jet canopies and flight deck windows to over 20 programmes including: Our Luton site is home to 370+ employees and onsite facilities including onsite parking, food hub and vending machines. As Senior Research Engineer (Process Development) you will draw on your diverse engineering background and product lifecycle awareness to progress a variety of research activity in the TRL1-6 range. You must have sound experience in leading technical work, including budgeting, schedule and risk management. You will be capable of achieving through others internally and externally, and you will be committed to development of your own skills and professional network. Core operational hours at our Luton site are 07:3016:30, Monday to Thursday, and 07:3012:30 on Fridays. The role requires a willingness to undertake occasional national travel for customer meetings. There is also the opportunity to work from home for up to two days per week, subject to business needs. Job Responsibilities Responsible for the technical delivery of allocated project deliverables, or project work packages, ensuring the research objectives have been satisfied. Support or lead any necessary 'hands on' development test work and development trials that are required to meet your Work Package/Work Stream delivery objectives. Support or lead the design of external work packages to be carried out by third parties to meet project research objectives. Responsible for accurately capturing and recording data and results from test work and development trials. Responsible for raising and issuing high quality and detailed technical documentation. Seek to understand the strategic direction of the target products or manufacturing process technologies being developed within your project(s). Contribute to Technology Development Plans and Technology Business Cases within your project(s). Contribute to multi-year planning and internal/external funding proposals as required. You may support project stakeholder management with internal/external customers, and you may lead management of supply chain partners in some cases. Take an active role in creating a personal development plan linked to GKN's TEF and will be responsible for delivering on agreed objectives supported by your line manager. Ensure EHS policy and process adherence for your activities, and you will contribute to a proactive EHS culture in the wider team. Contribute to the development of GKN as a 'Great Place to Work', aligned with the core principles - safe, innovative, open & honest, care & respect, and ownership. What You'll Bring To help us make a difference, youll bring your passion and talent for what you do along with the following skills, experience, qualifications and attributes: A relevant, accredited Engineering or Science based degree OR relevant industry experience Good general engineering/technology knowledge base and can demonstrate strategic thinking. Good working knowledge of general industrial manufacturing processes, and an interest in understanding new and emerging techniques. Good working knowledge of Lean manufacturing philosophies and Six Sigma / Statistical techniques for process control and problem solving. Logical and methodical approach to work package planning and costing. Experience engaging with production teams and you can identify operational requirements and incorporate in to your project(s) as appropriate and as agreed. Good interpersonal and communication skills, and can confidently translate complex information to a variety of audiences and you are able to represent your project(s) and GKN values in internal/external review meetings A higher degree qualification such as a Masters, PhD or EngD Experience in Composite Manufacturing Processes Note: Some GKN programmes are subject to regulatory restrictions which may impact certain nationalities. The position requires UK National Security Vetting (UKNSV) Security clearance (SC) due to the nature and responsibilities of the work carried out. Competitive salary dependent on experience The opportunity to earn up to 15% bonus Industry Leading Pension Scheme = well match your contributions up to 8% on a 1 : 1.5 basis Life Assurance 8 x salary 185 hours holiday + bank holidays Shopping discounts Cycle To Work Scheme Employee Assistance Programme Virtual GP Clinic for you and immediate family Electric Vehicle (EV) salary sacrifice scheme (Insurance, servicing, maintenance, roadside assistance and more included) Free onsite parking Local gym discount Free airport parking Enhanced family friendly leave Well support your career progression by providing you with learning and development opportunities. Through our commitment to diversity, inclusion and belonging and by living our five powerful principles weve created a culture where everyone feels welcome to contribute. Its a culture that won us The Best Workplace Culture Award.