Lead Flight Test Engineer – Aerospace Defence

About the role

As a Lead Flight Test Engineer you will shape advanced flight‑test capability for a specialist aerospace organisation delivering complex airborne evaluation and training systems to defence customers. The role combines hands‑on technical ownership with international exposure and leadership of multi‑aircraft test programmes.

Key responsibilities

• Plan, execute and report flight‑test activities across a diverse aerospace fleet.
• Develop test strategies, procedures and certification plans for complex programmes.
• Collaborate with design, engineering and test‑pilot teams to ensure safe integration of modifications and systems.
• Support regulatory engagement and maintain compliance with aviation authorities.
• Oversee flight‑test risk management and ensure safe delivery to required standards.
• Produce clear technical reports to support certification and operational‑readiness decisions.

Required profile

• British citizenship due to security requirements.
• Proven experience as a Lead Flight Test Engineer across multiple air‑vehicle types.
• Qualification as a Flight Test Engineer from a recognised training organisation.
• Experience working on flight‑test programmes in a regulated aviation environment.
• Ability to collaborate with engineering, design and test‑pilot teams under pressure.

Required skills

• Flight test engineering
• Flight test data systems
• Instrumentation for flight testing
• Test strategy development
• Certification planning
• Risk management in aviation

What we offer

• Salary £80,000‑£100,000 per year plus lucrative benefits.
• Standard aerospace sector benefits including holiday allowance, pension contribution and professional development support.
• Hybrid working from Bournemouth with international travel across Europe, the Middle East and the Far East.
• Opportunities to work on advanced aviation systems within a defence‑focused environment.