Electrical Systems Design Engineer

Electrical Systems Design Engineer

Location: Frimley, Surrey, South East England

Job Type: Contract (Full-Time hours)

Primary Industry: Aerospace and Aviation

Secondary Industry: Engineering

Job Description

The Electrical Systems Design Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and testing electrical systems within aerospace and aviation projects. This role requires the application of engineering principles to ensure that all electrical systems meet stringent safety, reliability, and performance standards. The engineer collaborates with cross-functional teams to produce detailed designs, specifications, and documentation in compliance with industry regulations and client requirements. Continuous improvement and innovation in design processes are essential to support the advancement of aerospace electrical systems.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Develop and produce detailed electrical system designs, schematics, and layouts in accordance with project specifications and regulatory standards.
• Conduct system-level and component-level analysis to verify design integrity, functionality, and compliance with safety and performance criteria.
• Participate in design reviews, providing technical expertise and ensuring adherence to best engineering practises.
• Collaborate with mechanical, software, and systems engineers to integrate electrical systems seamlessly within the overall aircraft design.
• Create and maintain comprehensive technical documentation, including design reports, test plans, and certification packages.
• Support testing and validation activities, analysing results and implementing necessary design modifications.
• Ensure compliance with aerospace industry standards, company procedures, and relevant statutory regulations.
• Identify and mitigate potential electrical system risks throughout the design lifecycle.
• Utilise specialised engineering software and tools for simulation, design, and documentation purposes.
• Maintain awareness of emerging technologies and industry trends to recommend design improvements.

Required Qualifications

• A bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or a closely related discipline.
• Proven experience in electrical systems design within the aerospace or aviation sector.
• Strong understanding of electrical engineering principles, circuit design, and system integration.
• Familiarity with aerospace standards such as RTCA DO-160, MIL-STD-810, or equivalent.
• Proficiency in computer-aided design (CAD) software and electrical simulation tools.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to interpret and produce technical documentation to a high standard.
• Effective communication skills, both written and verbal, suitable for technical and non-technical audiences.
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks within tight deadlines.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering or related field.
• Knowledge of aircraft electrical power distribution systems and avionics.
• Experience with certification processes and regulatory bodies such as the Civil Aviation Authority or European Aviation Safety Agency.
• Familiarity with systems engineering methodologies and tools.
• Membership of a recognised professional engineering institution.
• Experience working within multidisciplinary project teams in a fast-paced environment.

Experience

• A minimum of three years’ experience designing electrical systems within aerospace, aviation, or a related engineering sector.
• Proven track record of delivering complex electrical system designs from concept through to certification support.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively within engineering teams and liaise effectively with suppliers and clients.

Knowledge and Skills

• Advanced knowledge of electrical systems design principles and aerospace industry requirements.
• Competency in using electrical CAD tools and simulation software.
• Understanding of electromagnetic compatibility, wiring standards, and environmental testing requirements.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex technical data.
• Effective time management and prioritisation abilities.
• Clear and concise technical writing skills.

Working Conditions

• Primarily office-based with occasional visits to test facilities and manufacturing sites.
• Full-time hours, typically Monday to Friday, with flexibility as required by project demands.
• Contract role with duration aligned to project timelines.
• May require adherence to security clearance procedures due to the nature of aerospace projects.
• Use of specialised computer hardware and software within a collaborative team environment.