Design Engineer

Job Title:​ Design Engineer - Armoured Vehicles 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) At NP Aerospace, we don’t just design for innovation – we design to protect lives. We’re looking for a Design Engineer to develop advanced, mission-critical armoured vehicle systems used across global defence platforms. This role is central to how we protect lives in the field, you won’t be maintaining legacy drawings but creating engineered solutions that are deployed in some of the toughest environments in the world. You’ll thrive here if you enjoy hands-on engineering, solving real-world design challenges, and taking full ownership across the product lifecycle. Working in a fast-paced and highly technical environment, you’ll influence everything from 3D design and materials selection to manufacturability and integration. If you’re passionate about designing equipment that makes a genuine difference, this could be the perfect role for you. ​ What’s in it for you? ​ At NP Aerospace, we know our success comes from our people. That’s why we invest in benefits that support your health, reward your hard work, and help you grow your career: * Performance rewards – discretionary bonus opportunities * Flex your day – flexible start and finish times (subject to manager approval and operational needs) * Time to recharge – 25 days’ holiday + 8 bank holidays, with the option to buy more through our Holiday Purchase Scheme * Support for Defence – two weeks’ paid leave for Reservists and Cadet volunteers (including CFAVs) * Future security – competitive pension scheme (9% combined employer/employee contributions) * Peace of mind – life cover at 3x base salary * Health & wellbeing first – BHSF Cash Healthcare Plan to support everyday health costs * Grow with us – career development and advancement opportunities within a global business * Supportive environment – a team culture built on innovation, collaboration, and purpose What you’ll be doing: In this role, you’ll take ownership of designing armoured vehicle systems from concept through to low- and medium-volume production. You’ll create advanced 3D CAD models, ensuring each design meets strict performance, weight, cost, and safety requirements for real-world deployment. You’ll work closely with Engineering, R&D, Fabrication, and Manufacturing teams to translate concepts into robust, manufacturable solutions. You’ll manage BOMs and drawings through our PLM system (Windchill), support vehicle integration activities, and contribute to testing, evaluation, and iterative product improvements. As part of a specialist engineering team, you’ll play a key role in shaping next-generation defence technology with plenty of variety, hands-on problem solving, and opportunities to influence final design outcomes. What we’re looking for: We’re looking for someone who brings strong engineering capability, practical problem-solving, and a passion for high-performance design. You’ll ideally have: * A degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent hands-on engineering experience * Experience in defence, aerospace, automotive, or another high-integrity engineering environment * Proficiency in 3D CAD — SolidWorks is essential; experience with Creo is a strong advantage * Practical understanding of fabrication, machining, and composite materials * A hands-on mindset with the ability to solve complex technical problems * Strong communication and collaboration skills when working across engineering teams * Bonus: Chartered Engineer (CEng) status or actively working towards it About NP Aerospace We’re a global armour technology company with over 40 years of defence expertise. From ballistic plates and bomb suits to armoured vehicles and helmets, our products are trusted by some of the world’s most respected defence organisations. Innovation, protection and performance are at the heart of everything we do. 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