AE Operations Team Leader (Mechanical)
Aircraft Research Association (ARA) is a unique SME and the UK’s leading independent transonic wind tunnel with a passionate workforce of engineering and aerodynamic professionals. We are a leading specialist in aerodynamic research providing complementary services and solutions to international aerospace and defence clients. Our clients include Saab, Bombardier, Boeing, Turkish Aerospace, Lockheed Martin, Airbus, Comac and BAE Systems.
Typical projects include producing scaled-down military and civilian aircraft models, comprising multiple parts, which are assembled together and used as highly accurate forces/pressures measuring devices within the on-site high-speed (transonic) wind tunnel.
We are looking to recruit an experienced AE Operations Team Leader (Mechanical) to lead and manage a team of wind tunnel technicians, research engineers, and operators within our Aerodynamics Department. The role is crucial to the successful delivery of aerodynamic test programmes across ARA’s facilities.
You will be responsible for the mechanical assembly, preparation, and maintenance of models, rigs, and test equipment, as well as the coordination and development of a skilled and effective team. Working closely with key stakeholders across the business, you will ensure high standards of safety, quality, and efficiency are met, while also fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
This is an excellent opportunity for someone ready to take the next step into a technical leadership position or further develop their management career in a unique, hands-on engineering environment. If you are passionate about precision engineering, developing people, and delivering high-quality testing, we would love to hear from you.
Typical hours: Full-time, 40-hour per week (shift work may be required)
Salary range: £47,000 to £55,000 (depending on experience)
Grade: 5
This is a varied and leadership-focused role with the following key responsibilities:
- Leading a team of approx. 11, including line management, performance reviews, training and development planning.
- Planning and coordinating the team’s work across facilities to meet programme schedules and budgets.
- Mechanical assembly and rig preparation for aerodynamic test campaigns.
- Maintenance of test rigs, equipment, and workspaces to ensure safe and consistent operation.
- Ensuring the availability of tools, spares, and consumables.
- Liaising with Project Managers and Technical Leads to prioritise and allocate resource effectively.
- Developing and maintaining a skills matrix for the team and supporting their technical growth.
- Promoting a clean, safe and high-performing working environment.
- Leading the documentation of processes, risk assessments, and method statements.
- Collaborating with the Design and Instrumentation teams to support hardware development and improvements.
What we are looking for in you:
- Qualified to degree, HND, or NVQ Level 5 (or equivalent experience) in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
- Minimum 3 years’ experience in a wind tunnel or relevant test environment, with hands-on experience assembling and maintaining mechanical and electro-mechanical test equipment.
- Experience with high-pressure air systems and hydraulics is highly desirable.
- Strong communication and organisational skills, with the ability to coach and support others.
- A proactive and collaborative approach, with a drive to deliver results and continuously improve.
- Competent in planning tools and Microsoft Office (or equivalent).
- Flexible attitude towards shift work and evolving business needs.
The successful candidate must satisfy security clearance requirements – including the last 5 years continual UK residency.
Aircraft Research Association Ltd is proud to be an Equal Opportunities Employer. We recognise the value in an inclusive and diverse workforce and we welcome applications from all suitably qualified people.
If you think you are the person we are looking for, please complete the form below.
