Job Summary

GKN’s Global Technology Centre (GTC) in Filton, Bristol is a £32m state of the art technology research and manufacturing process development facility which is a hub for world-class innovative technology for the next generation of fuel-efficient aircraft. It includes a collaborative space for research and development with universities, the UK’s CATAPULT network and GKN Aerospace’s UK supply chain, to help strengthen aerospace technology and support the UK’s Industrial strategy. We are seeking to recruit a Principal Research Specialist to develop Cryogenic fuel systems and components for hydrogen-fuelled aircraft whilst providing technical leadership in this field. You will generate system, sub-system and component level designs for the transfer and control of hydrogen (as both liquid and gas) from storage (cryogenic tank) to where it is consumed (e.g. fuel cell).

As a key part of its sustainability agenda GKN Aerospace is making significant investments in the development of hydrogen based electrical propulsion systems. In delivering an important element of that agenda, GKN has partnered with a series or Tier 1 aerospace companies to deliver a Liquid Hydrogen Fuel System. The programme is part funded by the UK government, through the ATI and delivered within the UK ecosystem more widely. GKN is therefore seeking an experienced Programme Manager to establish, position and deliver the GKN work statement within the Fuel Systems Programme, namely HYFIVE

Reporting to the Programme Function of the Horizon 3 Technology Team, the role will lead a multi-disciplinary team in delivering a collaborative hydrogen based fuel system for Ground Based demonstration. The overall programme is led by a major aerospace Tier in Marshalls Aerospace and engaging multiple technical partners within the UK. This is a full time role, GKN fully embraced the principles of Hybrid working. Recognising the team leadership requirements of the role, it is expected that we require presence in the UK GTC 2-3 days per week. It is likely that further time would be based at a partner or others premises, so mobility is a requirement - travel expected within the UK (predominantly) and overseas (occasionally) on a planned basis.

Job Responsibilities

• Create and deliver Programme Plan
• Manage all key relationships within the programme
• Budget accountability
• Ensure all programme governance protocols are met (ie Gate Reviews/PRM’s/TRA’s/Manufacturing Readiness Reviews/Flight Readiness Reviews)
• Funding body management, through chairing quarterly review meetings, presenting programme summary to the assigned monitoring officer(s)
• Prepare quarterly grant claim submissions and forecasts
• Lead and support the technical team in developing and progressing partner level collaboration opportunities and integrating across GKN R&D centres and business lines
• Lead and support all manufacturing and procurement based activities to enable flight trial, via programme and business support functions
• Lead and support the flight certification activities with chosen OEM’s and Airworthiness bodies via the programme technical organisation
• Prepare and submit all GKN reports required during project closure
• Identify and actively manage contingency plans for escalated or high risk items throughout the programme
• Communicate key programme information across GKN
• Develop appropriate partnerships to establish, develop and exploit the eco-system globally and regionally
• Position GKN to access the required strategic capability (equipment, resources, facilities, .. ) to meet the programme flight requirements
• Where and if required secure the required level of government, regional or customer funding to adequately leverage the portfolio financially
  

How You'll Contribute

To help us make a difference, you’ll bring your passion and talent for what you do along with the following skills, experience, qualifications and attributes:

Essential:

• Degree or higher qualification in Engineering or Science based subjects
• Experience in Project Management, acting as the Programme interface with customers both internal and external
• Proven track record of delivering complex, R&D programmes
• Strong track record of leadership role in the Aerospace industry
• Experience of delivering government funded programmes
• Experience working in a multi-national environment
• Previous experience building a high performing engineering team in a complex environment

Desirable:

• Hydrogen experience
• Fuel Systems Experience
• Direct experience of the Aerospace development and certification process for new product introduction
• Project Management qualifications
• Proven track record of delivering complex, R&D programmes in a multinational environment
• Previous experience in acting as the Programme interface with customers both internal and external
• Experience operating with external governing and regulatory bodies

We are looking for people who want to make a difference, talented members with the skills and passions to become the best of the future in what they do. To be successful in this role you must be comfortable presenting technical information to both technical and nontechnical audiences. You will have experience influencing key stakeholders at all levels up to board level so excellent communication skills are also essential for this role.

What We'll Offer

Once you’re on board you’ll get the following perks and benefits:

• Competitive salary dependant on experience
• £5,500 car allowance per annum
• Opportunity to earn up to 22.5% bonus
• Hybrid working – giving you the opportunity to balance home and office working
• Industry Leading Pension Scheme = we’ll match your contributions up to 8% on a 1 : 1.5 basis
• Life Assurance 8 x salary
• 25 days holiday + bank holidays
• Income protection
• Shopping discounts
• Cycle To Work Scheme
• Employee Assistance Programme
• A collaborative, dynamic working environment

As well as a competitive package we’ll offer you a world of opportunity. We want to see your career fly! We’ll support your career progression by providing you with learning and development opportunities. That’s the beauty of being part of a global business, once you’re on board you never know where you career journey may take you!