Job Details Guidance, Control and Navigation Engineer - Graduate Programme 2026 R29415

MBDA S.A.S.; Bristol; Hybrid; GBP 31,000 - 37,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading defense systems company in the UK is seeking to fill a role focused on developing algorithms for Guidance, Control, and Navigation in missile systems. Candidates should have a degree in Physics, Engineering, or a related field, along with strong programming skills using tools like MATLAB. The position offers a competitive salary with additional benefits and opportunities for career progression in a hybrid working environment.

Benefits

Pension contributions up to 14%

Annual leave (25 days) plus options

Subsidised meals and free parking

Gym membership discounts

Healthcare and wellbeing programs

Qualifications

• Strong coding skills necessary for algorithm development.
• Solid understanding of flight dynamics and control theory required.
• Degree qualified in a related field is essential.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to algorithm design in Guidance, Control and Navigation.
• Collaborate with engineers across various departments.
• Participate in the development of autonomous decision-making systems.

Skills

Coding

Mathematics

Flight dynamics

Control theory

AI techniques

Education

Degree in Physics, Mathematical Sciences, Engineering or Computing (min 2:2)

Tools

MATLAB

SIMULINK

Job description

Role and responsibilities

The algorithms we design in Guidance, Control and Navigation (GCN) lie at the heart of MBDA missile and weapon systems. You will contribute to a range of activities across the product life cycle, from concept through to service, including:

• Guidance – determining a suitable trajectory, providing an effective route to target interception and improving the probability of defeating the target.
• Control – designing and tuning autopilot algorithms for various control surfaces to maintain stable flight dynamics and meet guidance demands.
• Navigation – estimating the current missile state (position, velocity and altitude/orientation) using measurements from onboard sensors.
• Command and Control (C2) – designing weapon-system level algorithms to track and evaluate threats, plan engagements, and provide mission context to the operator.
• Integrated navigation initiatives such as Terrain Reference Navigation, GPS integration, and Image Based Navigation.
• Autopilot and control system design and analysis, including dual-mode control and thrust vector control.
• Mid-course guidance, terminal guidance, target tracking and selectivity algorithms.
• Data fusion to combine data from multiple sensors (radars, seekers, IMUs, etc.).
• Implementing AI techniques including neural networks and deep learning to enhance GCN algorithms and address new challenges.
• Designing autonomous decision-making systems for use in complex collective missions.

You will work with a supportive team of engineers, developing skills in coding, modelling, mathematics, flight dynamics and control theory, using tools such as MATLAB/SIMULINK daily. You will collaborate with other departments to deepen knowledge of missile systems, including propulsion, aerodynamics, seekers, sensors and actuators. You can expect involvement across a broad spectrum of work, from researching & developing futuristic technologies to contributing to current high-profile projects. There is potential to work with international teams in MBDA, including the GCN function in Paris and Rome, with travel opportunities offered where available.

Additionally, the role may involve:

• Learning opportunities and participation in management or team leadership development paths.

Qualifications

• Degree qualified in Physics, Mathematical Sciences, Engineering or Computing with a minimum grade of 2:2.

What we offer and requirements

• Salary: £31,500 plus a £3,000 joining bonus.
• Dynamic (Hybrid) Working: 5 days per week on-site due to workload classification.
• Security Clearance: British Citizen or a Dual UK national with British citizenship. All successful candidates will need to undergo BPSS checks after offer stage.
• Closing date: Midnight on 3 November 2025.

Benefits and development

• 2-year programme with salary reviews and potential company bonus (up to £2,500, varies year to year).
• Pension: up to 14% total contribution; option to increase contributions.
• Overtime, annual leave (25 days) with option to purchase extra holiday; flexi leave up to 15 additional days.
• Excellent career progression and development opportunities.
• On-site facilities, subsidised meals, free parking, and additional lifestyle benefits (discounts, gym membership, healthcare and wellbeing programs, and family-friendly leave provisions).

Note: This description reflects the information provided and is subject to change. The role is part of MBDA’s Guidance, Control and Navigation (GCN) teams that support MBDA missile and weapon systems.