Materials Engineer (Non-Metallics)

About the Role

You will design and execute test plans for screening and qualifying non‑metallic materials, evaluate and down‑select candidates for high‑temperature engine applications, and assess how manufacturing processes affect material performance. Additionally, you will coordinate external partners, develop specifications and supporting documentation, analyse data to produce clear technical reports, and support the introduction and standardisation of materials within the product team. • Lead testing and qualification of non‑metallic materials, focusing on ceramics and CMCs. • Design and execute screening test plans for next‑generation engine hardware. • Evaluate material performance, assess manufacturing impact, and select optimal candidates. • Coordinate activities with suppliers, universities and specialist test houses. • Develop and maintain material specifications and supporting technical documentation. • Analyse data, characterise materials, and produce clear technical reports for engineering decisions. • Support integration, standardisation and knowledge sharing within the product team.

Key Responsibilities

• ▸material testing
• ▸test planning
• ▸data analysis
• ▸specification development
• ▸supplier coordination
• ▸knowledge sharing

What You Bring

Candidates must hold a degree in Materials, Mechanical Engineering, Chemistry or a related discipline, with a Master’s or PhD regarded as favourable. Strong technical judgement, an evidence‑based approach to material evaluation, and the ability to plan and execute work packages while managing priorities, risks and stakeholders are essential. Excellent written and verbal communication skills and comfort working with external organisations such as suppliers and research institutions are required. Experience with non‑metallic aerospace or high‑temperature materials, including composites and advanced material systems, is desired. Familiarity with linking process, structure and properties, as well as processing and evaluation methods such as surface preparation, machining, NDE and chemical cleaning, is advantageous. Understanding design and stress considerations for non‑metallic materials and a willingness to take technical ownership and share knowledge are also valued. The role requires the ability to obtain Security Clearance (SC) without caveats; Rolls‑Royce will support the application if needed. Candidates must hold UK nationality, with dual nationals subject to additional scrutiny and background checks. • Hold a degree in Materials, Mechanical Engineering, Chemistry or a related field (Masters/PhD advantageous). • Demonstrate strong technical judgement, planning skills and stakeholder management. • Communicate technical information effectively in written and verbal forms. • Prefer experience with high‑temperature aerospace composites and related processing methods. • Obtain SC clearance and meet UK nationality requirements.

Requirements

• ▸materials degree
• ▸high‑temp composites
• ▸technical judgement
• ▸sc clearance
• ▸uk nationality
• ▸communication

Benefits

Based at the Bristol site, the role contributes to technology delivery and materials capability for Defence Strategy and Future Programmes. You will join a collaborative, forward‑thinking team where your insight and expertise are valued, and you will have the chance to influence technical decisions and shape materials and process strategies for future engine technologies. Training and development support are provided to help you progress in one of the UK’s most respected engineering businesses. Rolls‑Royce offers a competitive salary, bonus, employee support assistance and attractive discounts. Hybrid working is available, allowing a balance between office, home or other remote locations, but the role requires a minimum of four days on‑site each week. The company also provides excellent development opportunities and a comprehensive benefits package.

Work Environment

Hybrid