Graduate Hardware Engineer

Leonardo UK Ltd; England; Hybrid; GBP 34,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading aerospace and defense firm based in Luton is looking for graduates to join their innovative Graduate Programme in hardware design. The role involves developing cutting-edge systems for various platforms and offers a competitive salary along with a comprehensive benefits package that includes flexible perks. Ideal candidates should have a minimum 2:2 degree in relevant fields and a strong passion for hardware design.

Benefits

Generous leave with up to 12 additional flexi-days

Pension scheme with up to 15% employer contribution

Free access to mental health support

Bonus scheme for all employees

Employee Stock Ownership Plan

£500 flexible benefits annually

Qualifications

• Graduates eager to learn and contribute to hardware design.
• A strong interest and basic understanding of hardware development.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop hardware systems from concept to testing.
• Collaborate with teams to integrate hardware with software.
• Test and debug hardware in laboratory settings.
• Document designs and technical reports.
• Support technical reviews and improvement initiatives.

Skills

Passion for hardware design

Familiarity with circuit design and simulation tools

Education

Minimum 2:2 Bachelor's or higher in relevant subjects

Job description

Job Description

At Leonardo, we’re seeking graduates eager to make an impact—driving innovation, advancing technology, and contributing to global safety.

You’ll play a key role in developing cutting‑edge hardware systems that power fast jets, UAVs, and naval and land platforms.

Our 18-month Graduate Programme gives you the opportunity to work on exciting and challenging projects alongside subject‑matter experts.

On joining, you will receive a starting salary of £34,000 per annum, plus a £1,000 welcome bonus. You’ll also be eligible for a £1,000 exit bonus upon successful completion of the programme. In addition, you may be eligible for a Temporary Accommodation Allowance (TAA), subject to specific criteria.

We encourage you to spend at least three days each week on site to integrate with your team and maximise your learning experience.

During the Programme, you will

Join a team of expert engineers designing and testing high‑performance analogue, digital, and mixed‑signal circuits for electronic warfare systems.

Key Responsibilities

• Designing and developing hardware systems across the full lifecycle — from concept to testing
• Collaborating with cross‑functional teams to integrate hardware with software and system designs
• Testing and debugging hardware in laboratory environments
• Documenting designs, specifications, and technical reports
• Supporting technical reviews and continuous improvement initiatives

What You’ll Bring

We’re looking for graduates who are passionate about hardware design and eager to learn. You’ll need:

• A minimum 2:2 Bachelor’s, Integrated Master’s, or higher degree (MSc/PhD) in a relevant subject such as:
• Electrical/Electronic Engineering.
• Robotics, AI & Cybernetics.
• Physics, Engineering Physics, Applied Physics.
• Mathematics, Communications, Space, or Information Engineering.
• Computer Communication and Networks, Cyber Security.
• A strong interest in hardware design and development.
• Familiarity with circuit design and simulation tools is desirable but not essential — training will be provided.

Security Clearance

This role is subject to pre‑employment screening in line with the UK Government’s Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS). An additional range of Personnel Security Controls referred to as National Security Vetting (NSV) will apply, including eligibility for the Security Check (SC) or Developed Vetting (DV). For more information and guidance please visit: https://careers.uk.leonardo.com/gb/en/security-and-vetting

Why Join Us

At Leonardo, our people are at the heart of everything we do, key contributors in shaping innovation, advancing technology, and enhancing global safety.

We offer a comprehensive, company‑funded benefits package that supports your wellbeing, career development, and work‑life balance. Whether you’re looking to grow professionally, care for your health, or plan for the future, we’re here to help you thrive.

Tailored Perks

• Time to recharge: Enjoy generous leave with the opportunity to accrue up to 12 additional flexi‑days each year.
• Secure your future: Benefit from our award‑winning pension scheme with up to 15% employer contribution.
• Your wellbeing matters: Free access to mental health support, financial advice, and employee‑led networks championing inclusion and diversity (Enable, Pride, Equalise, Armed Forces, Carers, Wellbeing and Ethnicity).
• Rewarding performance: All employees are eligible for our bonus scheme.
• Join in our success: Our Employee Stock Ownership Plan provides you the opportunity to own shares in Leonardo.
• Tailored perks: Spend up to £500 annually on flexible benefits including private healthcare, dental, family cover, tech & lifestyle discounts, gym memberships and more.

For a full list of our company benefits please visit: https://careers.uk.leonardo.com/gb/en/company-benefits

We are committed to building an inclusive, accessible, and welcoming workplace. If you have any accessibility requirements to support you during the recruitment process, just let us know.

Be part of something bigger - apply now!

Primary Location: GB - Luton - Cap. Green 300

Contract Type: Permanent

Hybrid Working: Hybrid