System Test IPT Lead

Join the System Test Team based in Bristol as a System Test IPT Lead and help us to achieve our mission of pioneering electric aviation.

What success will look like for you, as a System Test IPT Lead?

As a System Test IPT Lead you will be responsible for delivering a complex, multi-disciplinary whole aircraft integration test rigs and test methods. This role will be varied, with responsibilities including team management and development, process creation, safe operations and technical strategy.  Direct reports will include system test, software engineers and technicians. The role will be crucial in Vertical’s programme delivery, developing critical capabilities to provide crucial data to support the aircraft design, technology development and certification workstreams. 

You will be leading the specification, design, development and operation of a sophisticated system level test assets that will provide invaluable data to the engineering teams and ultimately assist in the certification of our aircraft. You will also be responsible for gathering test requirements around the engineering function and determine the best solution to meet the needs, whilst keeping future flexibility into consideration as well as ensuring close integration of the software and hardware aspects of the integrated testing approach, across the business.

You will be working closely with a variety of engineering teams, as well as engaging and down selecting external partners/suppliers to supply elements of the test solutions. You will be liaising with the Programme function to determine the most effective testing schedule and feature deliveries.

The System Test IPT Lead reports to the Head of Test and will be a key member of the system test team, supporting the continued development of our in-house expertise, specialist knowledge and capabilities.

What would we like you to bring.

We want you to be successful in your role and in order to achieve this, you will need to have proven experience on rapid development programmes, maturing new technologies at an integrated system level as well as team leadership experience, supporting and developing the team, encouraging knowledge sharing in a collaborative working environment.

Additionally you will have a good understanding of vehicle level testing methods, instrumentation/calibration requirements, health and safety considerations, rig control and data acquisition as well as previous exposure to working on an aircraft certification project.

Previous working experience with aircraft/space “iron birds”, automotive “lab cars” or powertrain test facilities and exposure to developing complex test assets to support aircraft certification as well as an understanding of Aerospace standards is desirable. Experience with electric powertrains and/or electric aircraft development as well as Hardware-in-the-Loop exposure, using Speedgoat and Simulink systems is also preferred but not essential.