Assistant Chief Design Engineer - UltraFan Demonstrator

Job Description

Assistant Chief Design Engineer - UltraFan Demonstrator

Derby

37 hours per week

We have an exciting opportunity for an Assistant Chief Design Engineer to join the Civil Demonstrator Programmes team.

Why join Rolls-Royce?

At Rolls-Royce we are proud to be a business that has truly helped to shape the modern world and are committed to always being a force for progress; powering, protecting and connecting people everywhere.

By joining Rolls-Royce, you'll have the opportunity to work on world-class solutions, supported by a culture that believes individuality is our greatest strength, and all perspectives, experiences and backgrounds help us innovate and enable our high-performance culture.

What you will be doing:

As ACDE for the UltraFan Demonstrator programme you will manage the Systems Design and Integration activity through the test phase of the Large Engine Demonstrator, whilst also leading the design activity for a Small Engine Demonstrator as we seek to gain entry to the single aisle market.  The demonstrator environment is an opportunity to work on cutting edge technology, whilst also defining and enacting new, leaner, simpler ways of working.

Responsibilities

In this role you will act as a delegate for the CDE as required and assist CDE in flow down of sub-system and product system requirements. You will also;

• Assist the CDE in the generation and creation of a robust whole product integrated design plan by managing the Design Iteration and Approval process on behalf of the CDE
• Task and manage the allocated systems design teams including budget and planning requirements.
• To capture, manage and maintain all critical data created within their team (e.g. technical reports, models, design data or validation & verification data) in line with the processes and guidelines defined by their capability.
• Assess and sentence non-conformance at a whole product or system level.
• Manage the Product Introduction Lifecycle Management (PILM) process on behalf of the CDE.
• To ensure appropriate buy-off of key project decisions within their capability’s accountability, including consultation of relevant experts and initiation of peer reviews.

Basic and preferred qualifications:

• Qualified to at least degree level
• Understanding of Product Change control including APQP and Product Introduction Lifecycle Management experience
• Project Management experience in planning, controlling budgets and driving to schedules
• Engineering and technical competence, demonstrated within and NPI or Demonstrator environment.
• Experience applying Systems approach or equivalent (Robust Design lead, Black belt, etc.)
• Experience in leading an Engineering team

Regional Benefits

Our People are our power, so when join Rolls-Royce you are offered more than a salary. You are given a choice of flexible benefits from life insurance to gym discounts and tax free cycling.

• Generous Annual Leave
• Retirement Savings through the Rolls-Royce Retirement Savings Trust
• Group Life Assurance provides for a lump sum benefit if you die whilst employed by Rolls-Royce
• Group Income Protection provides an income in the event that you are unable to work due to illness or injury
• Your Shares: Matched is a simple way to own Rolls-Royce shares and invest in our future, together. Buy one share, get one free!
• Digital GP provides a convenient way for you to access GP consultations
• Employee Assistance (EAP) and Live Well programmes

Our vision is to ensure that the excellence and ingenuity that shaped our history continues into our future. Our multi-year transformation programme aims to turn Rolls-Royce into a high-performing, competitive, resilient and growing company. Join us, and it can be your future vision too.

Rolls-Royce are committed to being a respectful, inclusive, and non-discriminatory workplace where individuality is valued, diverse perspectives fuel innovation, and everyone can thrive.

Please be aware that the priority will be given to employees identified as being at high risk. The professional level and salary of the position will be dependent on the skills and experience of the successful candidate but is anticipated to be Level C

This job is advertised at the grades shown, and this is the desired operating level for this role. We encourage applications from candidates with relevant experience from any grade. 

It is advised that you inform your current manager of your application for this role.   

Closing date: 25th June 2026

People Leader: Andrew Shorney

Recruiter: Ashley Ellis-Beeston

Job Category

Mechanical Systems

Posting Date

11 Jun 2026; 00:06

Posting End Date

24 Jun 2026