Senior Test Facility Engineer (Senior Technical Officer)

Fixed Term Contract for 24 months

Full time starting salary is £38,655 to £42,942 per annum

Location: Cranfield, Bedfordshire

We welcome applications from experienced engineers who enjoy combining technical problem-solving with the delivery of real engineering solutions, to join our team and help shape the future of aerospace thermal management technologies through the development and operation of Cranfield University’s Thermal Management Systems Facility.

About the Role

The Thermal Management Systems Facility is one of Cranfield University’s flagship experimental facilities, supporting the development of next-generation aerospace thermal management, fuel and lubrication systems. As a Senior Test Facility Engineer, you will play a key role in its ongoing development and operation, collaborating with academics, researchers and industrial partners on advanced engineering programmes.

You will lead the design, integration, commissioning and operation of complex experimental systems and test rigs, translating research requirements into safe, reliable engineering solutions that deliver high-quality experimental data. The role spans engineering design, system integration, troubleshooting and facility operations across mechanical, electrical, instrumentation and control disciplines.

This is a unique opportunity to take technical ownership of a specialist facility that supports nationally significant aerospace research and technology development.

About You

You will be an experienced engineer with a proven track record in operating, commissioning, modifying or developing complex engineering systems, test facilities or industrial equipment. Educated to degree level, or holding an HNC/HND with significant industry experience, you will possess broad knowledge of mechanical, electrical and instrumentation systems. Professional registration (RSci, IEng or equivalent) is essential.

You will be confident interpreting technical drawings, developing safe systems of work and leading technical activities from concept to implementation. Experience of instrumentation, control systems, hazardous fluids, pressurised systems or R&D facilities is desirable.

A proactive, collaborative approach and strong problem-solving skills are essential.

About Us

As a specialist postgraduate university, Cranfield’s world-class expertise, large-scale facilities and unrivalled industry partnerships are creating leaders in technology and management globally. Learn more about Cranfield and our unique impact here.

Our Values and Commitments

Our shared, stated values help to define who we are and underpin everything we do: Ambition; Impact; Respect; and Community. Find out more here.

We aim to create and maintain a culture in which everyone can work and study together and realise their full potential. We are a Disability Confident Employer. We are committed to actively exploring flexible working options for each role and have been ranked in the Top 30 family friendly employers in the UK by the charity Working Families. Find out more about our key commitments to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion and Flexible Working here.

As part of our commitment to support and develop Technical staff across the University, we are a founding signatory of the Science Council's Technician Commitment. Find out more here.

Working Arrangements

Collaborating and connecting are integral to so much of what we do. Our Working Arrangements Framework provides many staff with the opportunity to flexibly combine on-site and remote working, where job roles allow, balancing the needs of our community of staff, students, clients and partners.

How to apply                                    

For an informal discussion please contact (E): e.a.anselmipalma@cranfield.ac.uk

Apply by clicking the 'Apply' button above. For further details please contact peoplerecruitment@cranfield.ac.uk quoting 5401.

Closing date: 11 October 2026

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