NDE Research and Development Engineer (NDT) - Submarines

Job Description

NDE Research and Development Engineer (NDT) - Submarines

Full Time

Derby

NDE Research and Development Engineer opportunity with Rolls Royce Submarines. The NDE R&D Engineer will focus on research and integration of future technologies across the Non-Destructive Examination (NDE) sector. 

As part of the team, you will support current research programs as well as investigate and develop new capability, tools, and methods.  This allows for the opportunity to work with industrial and academic partners, national and internationally, directly as well as through conferences and research communities.  The importance of this role hinges around how we can change the ways of working within the NDE / NDT sector.

What you will be doing

With the opportunity to work within the NDE R&T team you will join us in:

• The development of NDE modelling capability, utilising scripting languages (MATLAB, Python), and commercial modelling tools (CIVA, Ansys, Pogo and Abaqus).
• Deployment of fully automated NDE systems, with the use of 2-7 axis robotics and the development and application of Artificial Intelligence (AI), utilising internal capability (MATLAB and Python) or industrial partners.
• Investigating Structural Health Monitoring (SHM), utilising a suite of novel techniques and new technologies.
• Scoping of new and novel NDE Techniques, through academic and industrial contacts as well as the completion of literature and technology reviews.
• Design and support of high integrity inspection development and qualification.

Position Qualifications:  

To succeed in the NDE R&T team you will need to :

• Experience with at least one scripting language ( MATLAB, Python, C, etc.).
• The ability to produce clear, concise, and accurate technical reports.
• The ability to work in a highly technical environment, in multidisciplinary teams and to tight deadlines.
• Be willing to take technical leadership and accountability of one or more projects, including planning and budgeting ensuring the delivery of projects are to time, cost and quality
• Show curiosity for how NDE techniques are currently completed and how they may change and improve in the future.
• A degree in physics, mechanical engineering, or another relevant STEM discipline.

For more than 60 years Rolls-Royce Submarines has designed, supplied and supported the nuclear propulsion plant, providing power for all UK Royal Navy nuclear submarines. 

 To work for Rolls-Royce Submarines an individual must hold a Security Check clearance. We will support the application for Security Clearance if you don’t already have it. Due to the nature of work we conduct, we can only progress applications from individuals who are a UK national or, in MoD approved cases, a dual national.

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 the salary of the position will be dependent on the skills and experience of the successful candidate. 

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

Grade 7-9

Job Category

Engineering Materials

Posting Date

14 Jan 2026; 00:01

Posting End Date

21 Jan 2026