Design Engineer - Armoured Vehicles - #1672890

Job Title:​ Design Engineer - Armoured Vehicles

Job Reports To:​ Chief Engineer

Department:​ Composite Armour Systems (CAS)

Location:​ Coventry, UK

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

Vacancy Type:​ Permanent, full time and based on-site. Potential hybrid working but subject to operational needs.

Salary: ​£35,000-£45,000 (subject to experience)

Design Innovation. Engineer Protection. Drive Performance.

Are you passionate about creating engineering solutions that truly make a difference? 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.

If you're looking for a role where engineering meets impact, and where your work protects those on the front lines, this could be your next step.

Read on and visit our LinkedIn page to find out more about us!

BENEFITS

• 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

JOB DUTIES

• Support the Lead Engineer in delivering project and product line objectives across performance, cost, quality, and timeline targets.


• Create robust, production-ready solid models and detailed drawings, preferably using Creo 6.0 or higher; experience with SolidWorks is a plus.


• Effectively manage CAD models, engineering drawings, and Bill of Materials (BoM) using PLM systems, ideally Windchill 10.1+; familiarity with EPDM is advantageous.


• 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.

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The above statements are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities required.

EXPERIENCE

Experience & Knowledge

• 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.


• Good understanding of workshop theory and practical engineering practices.


• Chartered Engineer (CEng) status is desirable, or you should be actively working toward accreditation.

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. 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 before you can begin your employment with NP Aerospace.