Job Title: Design Engineer - Armoured Vehicles Job Reports To: Chief Engineer
Department : Composite Armour Systems (CAS)
Vacancy Type: Permanent, full time and based on-site. Potential hybrid working but subject to operational needs.
Design Innovation. Engineer Protection. Drive Performance.
As a Design Engineer (Armoured Vehicles) at NP Aerospace, you’ll play a key role in the development of advanced components and systems that protect lives and perform under pressure.
You’ll be responsible for the design, integration, and development of armour protection and automotive systems across our product range — contributing to world-class engineering in support of military and security applications. From concept to completion, you’ll bring ideas to life through detailed design, technical problem-solving, and cross-functional collaboration.
Discretionary Half Year Bonus
Holidays – 25 days + 8 Bank Holidays + Holiday Purchase Scheme
Two weeks paid leave for Reservists and Cadets to attend yearly training/camp.
Paid leave for employees who are Cadet Force Adult Volunteers (CFAVs)
Pension – ER/EE – 4%/5% = 9% combined
Life Cover – 3 x base salary
BHSF Cash Healthcare Plan
Support the Lead Engineer in delivering project and product line objectives across performance, cost, quality, and timeline targets.
experience with SolidWorks is a plus.
Effectively manage CAD models, engineering drawings, and Bill of Materials (BoM) using PLM systems, ideally Windchill 10.Engineer components and systems to meet key targets including cost, weight, strength, and performance.
Contribute to the development and execution of project timelines, ensuring milestones are met.
Make informed material selections that align with design intent and performance requirements.
Ensure designs are optimised for manufacturability and ease of assembly, taking into account production capabilities.
Collaborate with FEA engineers to ensure structural integrity and performance validation.
Operate in compliance with ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 standards, supporting continuous improvement and best practices in design.
Degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent professional experience.
Experience in automotive, aerospace, or defence engineering environments.
Strong understanding of design and manufacturing techniques for low-to-medium volume production, including welding, fabrication, machining, and composite materials.
Proven ability to create and develop concepts, detailed designs, and engineering drawings for components and assemblies.
Skilled in 3D CAD software for modelling and drawing creation – experience with Creo or SolidWorks preferred.
Knowledge of material selection and its application to performance, weight, and cost targets.
Familiarity with structural performance assessments and collaboration with FEA teams.
WHAT DO WE DO AT NP AEROSPACE?
NP Aerospace is a global armour technology manufacturer and vehicle integrator with high performance, lifesaving solutions for the defence and security industry.
Our mission is to be the best at delivering products and services that bring our loved one's home and this is firmly embedded in our culture.
Our range of combat proven body armour from ballistic helmets, plates and shields to bomb disposal suits contains some of the most advanced composite materials and we have a team of R&D engineers working to develop next generation solutions. Our expertise also extends to highly engineered vehicle systems and armour platforms used by some of the world’s largest defence organisations.
NP Aerospace was originally established in 1926 and has served the defence industry for over 40 years, growing into an agile and diverse company with an expanding Business Development team 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. 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: Personal information provided during the application process will be treated in accordance with our privacy policy and applicable data protection laws.