Principal Structural Engineer

Our client, a key partner of the UK Ministry of Defence, is seeking a Principal Structural Engineer to join their Stevenage team. You’ll help ensure the structural integrity of advanced defence systems while working alongside over 30 engineers in the Mechanical Analysis Group—part of a 50+ strong team developing cutting-edge military technologies.

Key Responsibilities:
As part of an internationally recognised organisation, you will play a key role in ensuring products meet critical structural performance standards.

What do you need?:

• Degree qualified in a STEM subject.
• Proficiency in structural analysis using hand calculations and Finite Element methods (e.g., Optistruct, NASTRAN, etc.) demonstrated.

Experience in one or more of the following areas:

• Static, dynamic, fatigue analysis; metallic/composite analysis
• Finite Element optimisation & Design of Experiments
• Assessment of mechanisms and multi-body dynamics; crash analysis.
• Ability to quickly and efficiently assess designs to progress design activities.
• Self-motivated individuals with strong problem-solving skills and the ability to take on complex structural analysis tasks.
• Capable of working as part of a multi-disciplinary team or independently.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to network and influence internal and external customers.
• Relevant experience in a similar industry is advantageous.

What happens now?

Upon submission of your application, should it meet our selection criteria, you will be contacted via e-mail by one of our talent acquisition specialists to arrange a screening call. This telephone chat is structured to explore a series of questions aimed at matching your competencies and capabilities to the specific demands of the position. Please note, this screening is contingent upon the initial success of your application.

Security Clearance: British Citizen or a Dual UK national with British citizenship
Restrictions and/or limitations relating to nationality and/or rights to work may apply. As a minimum and after offer stage, all successful candidates will need to undergo HMG Basic Personnel Security Standard checks (BPSS), which are managed by our clients Security Team.

More about the role:
For more than 70 years, our client has been in a strong partnership with the UK military. They have accomplished numerous milestones in defence engineering and have provided essential defence capabilities to meet the requirements of the armed forces across land, sea, and air.

This role is based at our client’s headquarters in Stevenage, a key location for missile operations. The site offers excellent transportation links, an onsite gym, and a coffee shop. Training and development opportunities are available to all employees.