Senior Mechanical Design Engineer (Team Lead)

Apply for the Senior Mechanical Design Engineer (Team Lead) role at Nova Systems International.

Nova Systems is a leading supplier of turnkey bespoke aircraft modification solutions, aerospace engineering and test & evaluation services to governments and industry. Special Mission and Commercial aircraft modifications place certification at the heart of our work. As a niche EASA 21J DOA, we foster an employee‑focused culture and highly professional work ethic, offering opportunities within a global and dynamic team environment both locally and abroad.

The Role

As Senior / Lead Mechanical Design Engineer you will be accountable for delivering all mechanical discipline artefacts within the Nova DOA, including drawing sets, compliance reports and test plans. You will oversee the mechanical design team to meet business and regulatory requirements, provide technical and certification advice, and manage mechanical design activities across the Special Missions arm of the DOA.

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• Supervise and develop mechanical designs and artefacts in line with EASA Design Handbook, scope, schedule and budget across the project portfolio.
  
• Drive and influence designs to ensure compliance with customer specifications, functional requirements, certification and manufacturing requirements.
  
• Lead resolution of technical issues within assigned projects, liaising with design, production, maintenance and supplier teams.
  
• Coordinate closely with the Project Manager to deliver design, certification, manufacture and installation elements within budget and schedule, providing proactive status feedback.
  
• Act as Project Lead across the discipline portfolio, responsible for project plans, kick‑off briefs, budget performance, progress reporting, quality service delivery and technical coordination.
  
• Comply with Nova WHS policies, Safety Management System procedures and all other applicable safety requirements.
  
• Perform additional duties as required by your team lead or supervisor.
  

What we are looking for

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• Current or previous Panel 3 (Structures) CVE in Small/Large Rotorcraft and Aeroplanes.
  
• Experience with CAD tools (SolidWorks 3D, AutoCAD 2D) and MS Office Suite.
  
• Knowledge of applicable EASA law, regulations and design codes (Part 21, CS 23, CS 25, CS 27, CS 29).
  
• Strong understanding of aerospace/aviation manufacturing and production processes involving metallic and composite materials.
  
• Academic qualification(s) (or equivalent experience) supporting role execution.
  
• Excellent communication skills at all organizational levels.
  
• Willingness to educate and develop future aerospace engineers.
  
• Self‑starter with drive, curiosity and a commitment to continuous improvement.
  

Desirable Skills, Knowledge and Attributes

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• Experience in a hangar environment from a design perspective.
  
• Practical application of mechanical engineering skills.
  
• Member of a relevant institution and Chartered Engineer status (or working towards).
  
• Experience supervising a small, high‑performing team of engineers.
  

Security and Eligibility

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• Right to work in the UK without sponsorship.
  

Why Join Us

We offer a mission‑driven, supportive environment that values innovation, trust and collaboration. Benefits include:

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• Up to 8.5% matched contributory pension
  
• £300 towards professional membership subscriptions
  
• Study leave – 5 days/yr
  
• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays
  
• Flexible working conditions
  
• Private medical insurance
  
• Life insurance
  
• Great discounts at leading retailers
  
• Enhanced parental leave
  
• Employee assistance program
  
• An inclusive and supportive culture
  
• Reward & recognition programme
  
• Cycle to Work scheme
  

This role requires pre‑employment screening in line with the Government Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS). Checks include verification of identity and right to work, employment history and criminal record. Appointment is subject to successful completion of these checks.

We are committed to increasing diversity and embrace equal opportunity, equal treatment and respect for all.

Nova Systems International proudly supports the Armed Forces Covenant and values the contributions of service personnel, reservists, veterans and military families.

We also emphasize flexible working and mental health awareness, and we are ready to support any special access requirements.