About this role
As a Mechanical Design Engineer, you will be supporting the development of advanced aerospace and next‑generation aircraft systems. You will work across multidisciplinary CAD design, structural development, propulsion integration, rapid prototyping, and technical work‑package management, contributing to the engineering of future aircraft platforms including electric propulsion and eVTOL systems.
Location: Bedford
On‑site: Typically 3–4 days per week
Seniority: Mid–Senior
Clearance: Candidates must be willing and eligible to obtain SC clearance.
Key Responsibilities
Deliver day‑to‑day CAD design activities using SolidWorks (modelling, surfacing, assemblies, detailing, BoMs).Perform first‑pass FEA/CFD and support structural and mechanical design decisions.Manage and deliver Work Packages, including planning, task allocation, and coordination.Define and support design, integration, and testing across R&D and product development.Lead prototype development using CAE/CAM, selecting manufacturing methods for composites and metallic structures.Produce key engineering documentation (requirements, specs, DFMEAs, risk assessments, CONOPS).Support aircraft‑level integration, including payloads and electric propulsion/eVTOL systems.Liaise with suppliers and project teams, ensuring delivery quality, schedule alignment, and risk management. Required Skills
Strong proficiency with SolidWorks across modelling, surfacing, assemblies, and drawings.Experience performing basic FEA/CFD within CAD/CAE platforms.Background in aerospace, UAVs, propulsion, or mechanical/structural design.Hands‑on understanding of composite and metallic manufacturing methods.Knowledge of aircraft‑level performance impacts and system‑level integration.Experience producing engineering documentation, specifications, DFMEAs, and risk assessments.Soft Skills & Collaboration
Strong communication and stakeholder‑management skills.Ability to lead work packages and coordinate engineering tasks.Excellent problem‑solving abilities and attention to detail.Comfortable working in fast‑paced R&D or prototype‑driven environments.Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Product Development, or a related field.Equivalent military or industry engineering experience also considered.Desirable Skills
Experience with CAE/CAM workflows.Familiarity with rapid prototyping, composites, and manufacturing engineering.Knowledge of aircraft structures, propulsion systems, or eVTOL integration.Experience working with suppliers, certification bodies, or external engineering partners. Why join us?
We bring together entrepreneurial, tech-driven people to deliver innovative solutions for leading companies.
At ALTEN, you’ll work on exciting projects, supported by ongoing learning, mentoring, and clear career development tailored to your goals.
Join a passionate team and help build tomorrow, today.
In short you get:
A personalised career path and a rewarding management style A huge diversity of engineering projects and industriesPrivate Medical InsuranceCycle & Tech Scheme Employee assistance programmeLife insurance & Pension SchemeSocial atmosphere, regular gatherings & team buildingsFlexible way of working (role dependent)We are proud to support the Armed Forces Covenant & actively encourage applications from members of the Armed Forces community, including veterans, reservists, service leavers, and military spouses/partners. We recognise the value of military skills and experience and are committed to ensuring that no applicant is unfairly disadvantaged during our recruitment and selection processes.
ALTEN is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace and values the strength that comes from a global mix of backgrounds and perspectives. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates, regardless of background or protected characteristics under the Equality Act 2010. If you require any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know.
This role may require you to have or be willing to go through Security Clearance. As part of the onboarding process candidates will be asked to complete a Baseline Personnel Security Standard; details of the evidence required to apply may be found on the government website Gov.UK. If you are unable to meet this and any associated criteria, then your employment may be delayed, or rejected . Details of this will be discussed with you at interview.