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Hardware in the Loop Engineer - Graduate Programme 2027

Aerospace, Electrical, Mechanical, Maths, Hardware.

Our company: Peace is not a given, Freedom is not a given, Sovereignty is not a given

MBDA is a leading defence organisation. We are proud of the role we play in supporting the Armed Forces who protect our nations. We partner with governments to work together towards a common goal, defending our freedom.

There's a lot about a career at MBDA you don't know...
...come and find out what you could really be a part of!

The opportunity:

Hardware-in-the-Loop (HWIL) is a sophisticated testing technique that integrates real hardware components with simulated environments. We focus on bringing confidence to MBDA that their missile systems will perform at their maximum capability through novel testing methods.

The Hardware in the Loop (HWIL) department is a unique facility that integrates complex missile subsystems, simulates their dynamic flight to optimise missile performance prior to operational firing trials.

In the labs there are Electro-optic (EO), LASER and Radio Frequency (RF) devices, anechoic chambers and multiple axis hydraulic motion tables. The small, but versatile, team have a mixture of technical expertise that enables them to design and develop the electronics equipment needed for the labs; design the experiments; create custom software and hardware simulations, and to analyse and deliver results to support missile development and evaluation.

In HWIL there are a vast number of opportunities to get ‘hands-on,' and as a graduate you will be involved in testing missile hardware sub-systems (Seeker, Inertial Measurement Unit and Missile Computer), developing and integrating HWIL simulations and using the HWIL facility Infra-red, Radio-Frequency and Flight Motion Simulators.

HWIL supports and develops a broad range of skills, and is suitable for graduates from a wide range of engineering and problem solving backgrounds.

You will have the opportunity to develop many different engineering skills including integration of complex equipment; designing bespoke equipment; problem solving to create, set up and action test procedures. You will also work on a selection of the following:

  • Complex function integration.
  • Developing test software, data analysis scripts and control systems (C++, MATLAB, CAD, Linux).
  • Learning communication protocols (e.g. RS422, Ethernet, MODBUS, 1553).
  • Electronic design and Mechanical design.
  • Workshop skills (design and build of lab equipment and cables using pillar drills, hand tools, soldering etc).
  • Technical report writing to support trials reviews.

HWIL are a very versatile team, at different stages of their career and each member has their own unique set of skills. The key to such a team is consistent demonstration of passion; team work; innovative ideas; commitment, and a lot of communication and support. The team are always looking to discover new solutions and there is always someone to discuss new ideas and concepts with.

What we're looking for from you:

  • Degree qualified in an Engineering (incl. Aeronautical/Aerospace, Electronic/Electrical and Mechanical), Physics, Mathematics, Artificial Intelligence, Computing, Control Theory, Systems discipline to a minimum of 2:2.
  • Basic experience of Matlab/Simulink or software development desirable

What we can offer you

  • 2 year Programme: starting September 2027
  • Annual Salary Review
  • Company bonus: Up to £2,500 (based on company performance and will vary year to year)
  • Pension: Maximum total (employer and employee) contribution of up to 14%
  • Overtime: Opportunity for paid overtime
  • Annual Leave: 25 days plus option to purchase extra holiday
  • Flexi Leave: Up to 15 additional days
  • Excellent career progression & development opportunities
  • Facilities: Fantastic site facilities including subsidised meals, free car parking and much more.
  • Healthcare Cash Plan: The Healthcare Cash Plan benefit provides the option to claim cash back on everyday healthcare expenses such as optical, dental, health and wellbeing and more.

Security Clearance: British Citizen or a Dual UK national with British citizenship.

Restrictions 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 the MBDA Personnel Security Team.

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Job ID Number: R37400
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Add to Shortlist
Shortlisted
  • Deadline
    November 2nd, 2026
  • Hiring Multiple Candidates
    Yes
  • Salary
    £31,900 + a £3,000 joining bonus + benefits
  • Degree required
    2:2 and above
  • Location
    Stevenage (Hertfordshire)
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Disciplines Accepted...
  • AI/Machine Learning
  • Aerodynamics
  • Aeronautics
  • Aerospace
  • Avionics
  • Computer Science
  • Electronic/Electrical
  • Hardware
  • Maths
  • Mechanical
  • Physics
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