R&D Engineer

Located in Wimborne, Dorset, Eaton's Aerospace division is a global leader in aerospace fuel systems, renowned for delivering fully integrated solutions for both fixed and rotary-wing aircraft. Our Wimborne facility specialises in cutting‑edge air‑to‑air refuelling systems, advanced refuelling probes, air‑to‑air and air‑to‑ground launch systems utilising both pneumatic and pyrotechnic ejection technologies, as well as a range of Defensive Aids Sub‑Systems. With over 80 years of industry experience, we are recognised as the world’s leading provider of air‑to‑air refuelling systems, offering fifth‑generation solutions to Air Forces worldwide.

Our legacy of innovation and technical excellence sets us apart as the most advanced air‑to‑air refuelling supplier on the global stage.

Eaton’s Wimborne site, part of Eaton’s Mission System Division, offers an exciting opportunity for a Senior Project Engineer to work in the Research & Development team. As a Senior Project Engineer you will report into the IPT Engineering Manager and be responsible for technically leading and coordinating engineering projects up to TRL
6. You will develop new technologies and concepts that shape the future products of the business. This role is ideal for an engineer who enjoys a broad spectrum of engineering topics or who is looking to progress into a lead engineer role.

• Technically lead small/medium sized projects
• Provide technical input to a Lead Engineer/Engineering Manager on large projects or lead sections of a large project
• Plan engineering tasks, manage internal functions and generate engineering management plans
• Engage with stakeholders to ensure solutions meet expectations and communicate these expectations internally
• Plan and present engineering design reviews; engage with internal functions (e.g., stress, safety) to ensure project delivery milestones are fully met
• Manage technical risks and opportunities
• Execute all stages of technology development up to TRL6 in accordance with Eaton processes to meet stakeholder needs
• Manage engineering change to maintain system integrity throughout the lifecycle and ensure traceability of all key design decisions
• Provide support and guidance in all areas of the product lifecycle
• Liaise with engineering leadership and programme management teams to ensure the project is adequately resourced and identify potential capability shortfalls

Hold a degree in a relevant subject. Alternative education such as HNC or apprenticeship with sufficient experience will be considered. You should have 5 years’ experience in an engineering role.

• Enthusiasm, initiative and a willingness to develop
• Strong verbal and written communication skills to interface with customers and internal stakeholders
• Self‑motivated and proactive, using technical skills and teamwork to resolve issues
• Experience of engineering lifecycle and design reviews
• Good foundation in technical report writing
• Comfortable presenting technical content at all levels across the business
• Ability to deal with ambiguities and uncertainties
• Advantageous if previously held engineering sign‑off for documents
• Experience with project management in generating schedules beneficial

The successful applicant will be in contact with US ITAR‑controlled technology, goods and information. As a condition of employment, employees with access to US ITAR‑controlled technology and goods may be required to undergo an additional screening process as part of the recruitment process.

We are committed to ensuring equal employment opportunities for job applicants and employees. Our recruitment processes use balanced selection criteria and avoid unlawful discrimination against applicants on the basis of their age, colour, disability, marital status, national origin, gender, gender identity, genetic information, race or racial origin, religion, sexual orientation or any other status protected or required by law.