Principal Research Engineer (Cryogenic Systems Design) - GKN Aerospace

Location: Bristol (Hybrid working, 3 days on-site)

Overview

Join GKN Aerospace and reshape the future of air travel. We’re pioneering zero-emission flights with cutting-edge technology, from Liquid Hydrogen propulsion to Cryogenically cooled networks and motors. With over 16,000 dedicated employees and a global reach, we serve 90% of the world's aircraft and engine manufacturers. Our innovation not only pushes boundaries but also propels sustainability at the heart of our mission.

Job Summary

We are in search of a Principal Research Engineer – Cryogenic Systems Design. This role is pivotal in generating models and engineering drawings for cryogenic systems ready for manufacturing. Your tasks will include supervising the procurement, manufacture, and assembly of these components and systems for aircraft and ground-based facilities.

Key Responsibilities

• Generate models of cryogenic and vacuum systems from engineering information.
• Contribute to engineering analysis and validation processes.
• Create detailed engineering drawings from system models.
• Select appropriate manufacturing and assembly techniques for cryogenic systems.
• Generate and detail process instructions for system assembly.
• Identify, select, and audit suppliers, ensuring seamless integration into the supply chain.
• Source and select materials and components, and contribute to material specifications.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to develop cost-effective designs.
• Participate in reviews and workshops to influence standards and ensure compliance.

Qualifications

Essential:

• HNC/HND, degree, or equivalent qualification in an engineering discipline.
• Experience in designing cryogenic and high vacuum systems.
• Knowledge of leak tightness and leak detection in cryogenic systems.
• Understanding of material behavior at cryogenic temperatures.
• Proficiency in good design practices, including manufacturing techniques suitable for cryogenic systems.

Desirable:

• Experience with hydrogen systems.
• Experience with high or ultra-high vacuum systems.
• Selection and specification of equipment for cryogenic or high vacuum systems manufacturing.
• Development of test rigs for engineering validation.
• Design of manufacturing tooling for cryogenic systems.
• Detailing instrumentation schemes and wiring to support tests and commissioning measurements.

What We Offer

At GKN Aerospace, you’ll enjoy a competitive salary and benefits package, including:

• Opportunity to earn up to a 15% bonus
• Hybrid working model
• Industry-leading pension scheme with up to 8% matching
• Life Assurance at 8x your salary
• 25 days holiday plus bank holidays
• Income protection
• Shopping discounts
• Cycle To Work Scheme
• Employee Assistance Programme
• A collaborative, dynamic working environment

Beyond these benefits, we offer a world of opportunities. We’re committed to your career progression through continuous learning and development. Join us and see how far your professional journey can take you.

Why Work Here?

At GKN Aerospace, we cherish diversity and inclusion. We’ve built a culture of collaboration and innovation where everyone is welcome. Our dedication to these values won us ‘The Best Workplace Culture Award’. We embrace every unique individual to join our workforce and innovate the future of aerospace technology.

If you require reasonable adjustments during our recruitment process, please get in touch. Together, we can shape the future of aerospace innovation.

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