How your CV stacks up
Upload your CV to see how well it fits this job role
?%
Principal Engineer in Flight Physics (Rotary Wing) – Bristol/Southampton
Package: Competitive Salary + Benefits
Role ID: SF20236
About the Role
Are you ready to be part of the future? At QinetiQ, we’re not just imagining tomorrow—we’re creating it. From cutting-edge defence technology to ground-breaking innovations, our mission is to empower and protect lives.
Join us as a Principal Engineer at our Bristol, Farnborough, or Boscombe Down site, where you’ll work with cutting-edge technology and collaborate with some of the most brilliant minds. This role offers the chance to shape the future of rotary wing aerospace, providing expert technical input into multi-disciplinary defence projects.
Key Responsibilities
As a Principal Engineer, your day-to-day work will include:
- Providing Flight Physics Rotary Wing technical input across projects, aligned with customer requirements
- Conducting analysis of Flight Physics data in the rotary wing domain
- Making sound engineering and technical judgments based on data analysis
- Evaluating and testing:
- Aircraft performance and flying qualities
- Aircraft handling
- Flight Control Systems, Engine Control, and Air Data Systems
- Applying Flight Physics principles to various aspects of rotary wing engineering
- Mentoring junior team members within the department
Essential Experience & Qualifications
To excel in this role, you’ll bring:
Experience:
- Deep understanding of Rotary Wing Flight Physics principles
- Proven track record in delivering high-performance aerospace projects
- Expertise in military aerospace rotary wing platforms
- Knowledge of MAA (Military Aviation Authority) and Civil regulations
- Ideally, 5–10 years of post-graduation experience, preferably in advisory, research, or consultancy roles
- Experience working with UK military, aerospace, and defence customers
Reasons to use Rodeo
Start with a chat, not a search bar
Grad scheme, placement, apprenticeship? Not sure what you want yet — that's fine. Your agent talks it through with you and turns "I have no idea" into a shortlist.
It searches the market for you
Every day your agent scans the market matching roles against what actually matters to you, not just keywords on a CV.
Only hits
No noise. No "maybe this fits." Just roles with a clear explanation of why they're right — and where to focus when applying.
Qualifications:
- First degree in Science or Engineering, or an equivalent nationally recognised professional qualification
- Chartered Engineer (CEng) or Incorporated Engineer (IEng)
Note: While qualifications matter, QinetiQ values diversity and adaptability. If you have the required experience and enthusiasm—regardless of background—we’d love to hear from you.
Location & Working Arrangement
- Base: Bristol (with a minimum 3 days/week attendance)
- Flexible options: Role can be based at Farnborough or Boscombe Down upon mutual agreement
Security Clearance Requirement: Applicants must be eligible for a minimum of SC (Security Check) clearance. Information about UKSV National Security Vetting is available for reference.
** About Our Workplace**
Our Bristol site is part of QinetiQ’s broader defence and technology innovation network. You’ll join a diverse team of engineers, scientists, and professionals, contributing to high-impact projects in aerospace and defence.
Our Commitment to Inclusion
At QinetiQ, we build an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and supported. We encourage applications from all backgrounds and are a disability-confident employer. If you need any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please email internal_recruitment@qinetiq.com.
Get help with your application
Your very own career expert that helps elevate your application to the next level.
Note: Some QinetiQ roles require national security vetting. If you already hold relevant clearance, it may be transferable. Additional restrictions (e.g., nationality) may apply due to sector requirements.
Why Join QinetiQ?
- Innovation & Impact: Be part of an organisation driving defence and technology transformation.
- Collaborative Culture: Join teams spanning disciplines and backgrounds, solving complex challenges together.
- ** Growth Opportunities:** Our diverse environment fuels learning, creativity, and development.
- Diverse Workplace Culture: Authenticity, inclusion, and shared perspectives define our success.
Explore more about life at QinetiQ: www.qinetiq.com/en/careers/life-at-qinetiq
Benefits Package
QinetiQ offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:
- Matched contribution pension scheme (with life assurance)
- Generous holiday allowance (with options for paid extra days)
- Health & Wellbeing: Access to Health Cash Plan, Private Medical Insurance, and Dental Insurance
- Employee Discount Portal (Personal Accident Insurance, Travel Insurance, discounts on dining, cinema etc.)
- Support for the Armed Forces: As a Gold Award DERS employer, we honour the Armed Forces Covenant
- Community Impact: Volunteer opportunities supporting local charities
Ready to shape the future? Apply today for an opportunity at the forefront of aerospace innovation.
“It took my CV and asked me questions relevant to understanding what kind of jobs to suggest for me. Suggestions were almost perfect. Jobs were exactly what I’ve been looking for.”
Jessica, London
Skills
Location