CFD Mechanical Engineer (KTP Associate)

Job Details

• Employer: Queen’s University Belfast
• Location: Maghera
• Salary: £28,000 - £38,000
• Project duration: 24 months
• Closing date listed: 1 November 2026

About the Role

Lead a project to improve road tanker performance and efficiency at Crossland Tankers in Maghera, County Derry. You will be employed by Queen’s University Belfast and use simulation, design, data analysis and AI to develop practical engineering improvements.

A Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) brings a university and a business together to apply research to a practical business project.

Main Responsibilities

• Set up the project, complete training and build baseline simulation models.
• Improve tanker aerodynamics.
• Analyse and improve the efficiency of vacuum pump systems.
• Integrate and validate improvements and measure the savings.
• Support prototype construction and testing.
• Use computational fluid dynamics (CFD), which models fluid flow, alongside multiphysics modelling and computer-aided design.
• Apply data analysis and AI techniques to support optimisation.
• Introduce the new methods into company processes and support implementation and commercial use.

Essential Requirements

• At least a 2:1 Honours degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering or a related subject.
• CFD experience.
• Python experience for simulation automation and analysis.
• Completion of a relevant research project or placement.
• Strong CAD modelling and design skills.
• Good communication and presentation skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

Read the official person specification for the full appointment criteria.

Desirable Experience

• OpenFOAM experience is preferred for CFD work. Read the Candidate Information Booklet for the full essential and desirable criteria.

Benefits and Support

• £4,000 personal development budget.
• Structured KTP management training.
• Support from academic and commercial supervisors.
• Experience leading an engineering innovation project.

About the Employer

Crossland Tankers designs, manufactures, repairs and services specialist road tankers. It has manufacturing sites in Swatragh, Northern Ireland, and Burnley, Lancashire, and produces tankers for milk, chemicals, water, waste and bitumen transport.