Hardware in the Loop Engineer – Graduate Programme 2026

Overview: 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 maximum capability through novel testing methods.

Salary: £31,500 plus a £3,000 joining bonus.

Working Arrangement: Dynamic (Hybrid) – 4‑5 days per week on site due to workload classification.

Security Clearance: British Citizen or Dual UK national with British citizenship required. Successful candidates will undergo HMG Basic Personnel Security Standard checks (BPSS) after the offer stage.

Closing Date: Midnight 3rd November 2025 (role closed).

What We Can Offer You

• 2‑year Programme starting September 2026
• Salary reviews throughout the Programme
• Company bonus up to £2,500 (based on performance)
• Pension: maximum total contribution of up to 14%
• Opportunity for paid overtime
\
• Annual Leave: 25 days plus option to purchase extra holiday
• Flexi Leave: up to 15 additional days
• Excellent career progression and development opportunities
• Facilities: subsidised meals, free car parking and more

Opportunity

In the HWIL department we integrate complex missile subsystems, simulate dynamic flight, and optimise missile performance prior to operational firing trials. The lab houses Electro‑optic (EO), Laser and Radio‑Frequency (RF) devices, anechoic chambers and multiple‑axis hydraulic motion tables. The team designs and develops electronics equipment, experiments, custom software and hardware simulations, and delivers analysis to support missile development.

As a graduate you will be involved in testing missile hardware sub‑systems (Seeker, Inertial Measurement Unit, Missile Computer), developing and integrating HWIL simulations, and using Infra‑red, RF and Flight Motion Simulators.

Key Responsibilities

• Integrate complex equipment and design bespoke equipment
• Develop test software, data‑analysis scripts and control systems (C++, MATLAB, CAD, Linux)
• Learn communication protocols (RS‑422, Ethernet, MODBUS, 1553)
• Electronic and mechanical design
• Workshop skills: designing and building lab equipment and cables using pillar drills, hand tools, soldering, etc.
• Prepare technical reports to support trial reviews

Qualifications

• Degree in Engineering (Aeronautical/Aerospace, Electronic/Electrical, Mechanical), Physics, Mathematics, Artificial Intelligence, Computing, Control Theory, Systems – minimum 2:2
• Basic experience of MATLAB/Simulink or software development desirable

What We're Looking For From You

• Degree qualified as above with minimum 2:2
• Basic experience of Matlab/Simulink or software development
• Passion, teamwork, innovative ideas, commitment, and strong communication

Our Company

MBDA is a leading defence organisation supporting the Armed Forces and partners with governments to defend freedom. We value diversity and support employee-led networks, including Gender Equality, Pride, Menopause Matters, Parents and Carers, Armed Forces, Ethnic Diversity, Neurodiversity, Disability and more. We encourage you to speak with us if you require support or adjustments during recruitment.