Missile Test Architect Test Equipment & Systems (Defence)Location: Bolton, Greater ManchesterSector: Defence / Advanced ManufacturingAs a trusted partner to the UK Ministry of Defence, our client is seeking an experienced Missile Test Architect to support the delivery of advanced missile systems. This role is ideal for accomplished test equipment engineers ready to progress into system and sub-system leadership, influencing complex programmes from concept through in-service support.You will own the end-to-end test equipment strategy, shaping test architectures, managing requirements, and overseeing development through delivery and operational use. Reporting to the Chief Design Engineer, you will act as the technical authority within multidisciplinary engineering teams, helping define built-in test capability, production testing requirements, and the specification and delivery of missile test equipment.Key ResponsibilitiesDefine and implement the overall project test strategyDefine and implement Built-In Test (BIT) architecture, including coverage requirements, timings, and system-level routinesSpecify missile factory pass-out testing to ensure correct build and support manufacturing with effective test stagesDefine in-service test routines for missile systemsGenerate and manage compliance to lower-level test requirements for design teams, including:Test access requirementsBIT coverage and timingsFactory test functionalityAnalyse and model systems to understand test coverage and generate diagnostic instructionsPropose and recommend cost versus test-coverage trade-offs in collaboration with the Chief Design EngineerProduce, maintain, and deliver plans for activities within your area of responsibilityProvide technical leadership across internal teams and sub-contracted activitiesSkills & ExperienceEssentialDegree qualified in Electrical, Electronic, or Test Engineering or equivalent industry experienceSubstantial experience in test equipment, test systems, or test architectureStrong technical background in:Digital electronics and microprocessor-based systemsAnalogue electronicsPower electronicsProven experience in test equipment designExperience using DOORS for requirements managementAbility to operate as a technical authority within complex engineering programmesDesirableExperience within defence, aerospace, or other highly regulated engineering environmentsExposure to system-level or sub-system leadership rolesUnderstanding of production and in-service test strategiesKey CompetenciesGood understanding of project management, planning, cost, and budget controlAbility to manage diverse and sometimes conflicting stakeholder requirementsStrong influencing skills with engineers, managers, and senior stakeholdersCapability to technically manage internal teams and external suppliersDetermination, resilience, and a strong drive to deliverExcellent written and verbal communication skillsSecurity Clearance: British Citizen or a Dual UK national with British citizenshipRestrictions and/or limitations relating to nationality and/or rights to work may apply. As a minimum and after offer stage, all successful candidates will need to undergo HMG Basic Personnel Security Standard checks (BPSS), which are managed by our clients Security Team.More about the role:For more than 70 years, our client has been in a strong partnership with the UK military. They have accomplished numerous milestones in defence engineering and have provided essential defence capabilities to meet the requirements of the armed forces across land, sea, and air.This job is at our client's site in Bolton facility, one of the North West's leading manufacturing sites for at least 25 years. The facility offers showers and bike racks and is near the motorway, with a petrol station outside. Amenities like an onsite canteen.JBRP1_UKTJ