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Manufacturing Research Engineer – Automated Layup (AFP/ATL/Pick & Place)

About The Role
Bristol | Full Time | Hybrid Working

Drive the future of advanced composites and automation at NCC.

Are you ready to take automation to the next level? We’re looking for a practical, innovative Research Engineer to join our Automated Layup team in Bristol. This is your chance to work with state-of-the-art robotic systems and large-scale automation cells, delivering solutions that will transform UK manufacturing.

What you’ll do:
- Lead automation projects that push the boundaries of composite manufacturing.
- Operate & optimise advanced automated/robotic equipment, including programming, calibration, and troubleshooting.
- Partner with industry leaders to solve real-world engineering challenges and deliver measurable impact.
- Develop next-generation automated composite processing technology, including hardware integration, control systems, requirements capture, and machine specification writing — shaping the future of large-scale manufacturing.
- Mentor and inspire early-career engineers, sharing your expertise in automation and robotics.
- Thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment where your ideas drive progress.
What we’re looking for:
- Degree-level qualification in a relevant engineering discipline.
- Hands-on experience with robotic systems and automation cells (Preferred but not limited to AFP, ATL, textile handling).
- Ability to write manufacturing documentation and work troubleshoot hardware (e.g., sensor setup, Instruction writing and data capture).
- Knowledge of automation systems and experience in agile R&D settings.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
- Fluent English (written and spoken).
Desirable:
- Scripting or simulation experience (Python preferred).
- Background in robotics, digital manufacturing, or textile processing.
- Appreciation for NC programming for robotic applications (composites preferred).
- Understanding of control systems, sensors, and integration of automation hardware.
See full job description for an outline of the role at Research Engineer and Advanced Research Engineer level.

Closing date for applications: 23:59 Sunday 4th January 2026

Why join us?

At NCC, we don’t just research — we deliver innovation at scale. Our mission is to help UK industry unlock the full potential of advanced composites through collaboration, technical leadership, and cutting-edge automation. You’ll work with world-class facilities, tackle complex engineering challenges, and make a tangible impact on sectors from aerospace to renewable energy.

What we offer:
- Flexible hybrid working with a standard 37-hour workweek.
- Generous pension and private healthcare.
- Access to cutting-edge technology and continuous professional development.
We see your future in ours. Apply now.
Notes/Brief for Recruitment Team:
About The Company
NCC is a world-leading innovation organisation that turns cutting-edge research and technology into industrial impact. We bridge the gap between academia and industry, helping companies of all sizes to capitalise on cutting-edge innovation to deliver more. We do this at every stage of their journey from the earliest concept to end-of-life.

The future of composites manufacturing relies on NCC, and we rely on the right individuals to make it happen, whether they’re engineers or not!

Why NCC?

We see our success in yours. Not sure you meet all the requirements? Let us decide! Research shows that women and members of other underrepresented groups tend not to apply for jobs if they think they may not meet every qualification, when in fact they often do. At NCC we are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment and strongly encourage you to apply.

We ensure that all hiring decisions are made without regard to age, race, national origin, sex, disability, gender, gender identity, religion, or any other protected characteristics, and will treat all applications with the strictest confidence. We’re always open to hearing how we can support flexible working in different ways, including part-time work. Please don’t be afraid to ask about what we can do to support your needs. All requests will be carefully and fairly considered. We wish you every success in your job search.

Diverse challenges – NCC isn’t just about aerospace. We’re working with over 16 sectors and a variety of customers, from private ventures to the global tier 1 companies, providing variety to your experience.

Innovation – a world-leading research and development centre, the work we do brings novel and innovative solutions to industry, with the future firmly in mind. So we need innovating thinking not just in Engineering, but across all support functions.

Development in composites, and you – if the scope of exciting work isn’t enough to sway you, our ethos of continued learning and development and flexible working patterns will.

We look forward to hearing from you. #fulltime