Job Details Mechanical Engineer - Graduate Programme 2026 R29131

MBDA S.A.S.; Stevenage; Hybrid; GBP 32,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading defence organization in the UK is seeking graduates in Mechanical Engineering for varied placements within their Mechanical Engineering department. The role involves engaging in design, analysis, and practical assessments in a collaborative environment. The position offers a competitive salary of £31,500 with a £3,000 joining bonus and flexible working options. Ideal candidates should possess a relevant degree and a willingness to perform multidisciplinary tasks.

Benefits

25 days annual leave

Retirement Savings Plan

Health and wellbeing benefits

Online learning platforms

Qualifications

• Minimum 2:2 degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field is required.
• Hands-on experience with hardware is encouraged.
• Ability to contribute to multidisciplinary design efforts.

Responsibilities

• Engage in mechanical design from concept to manufacture.
• Participate in research and development studies.
• Conduct stress and thermal analysis on mechanical systems.

Skills

Mechanical Engineering

Mechanical Design

Finite Element Analysis (FEA)

Education

Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aeronautical Engineering or comparable

Tools

CAD software

Job description

Overview

Our team is at the forefront of defence, working alongside highly qualified engineers and technical specialists, to deliver key multinational defence projects. The nature of complex weapons and the environments they operate in present an extensive scope of unique and interesting mechanical engineering challenges. You could be working across Internal Research or Design and Analysis, through to Integration, Tooling and Testing. As a graduate joining our team you'll be working in a supportive and collaborative working environment and benefit from a range of support networks.

We’re MBDA, a leading defence organisation. We partner with governments to work together towards a common goal, defending our freedom. We are proud of our employee-led networks, and we encourage you to speak to us should you require any advice, support or adjustments throughout our recruitment process.

The Mechanical Engineering department develops physical solutions from concept through development and certification to production on missiles and weapon systems. The nature of complex weapons and the environments they operate in present an extensive scope of unique and interesting mechanical engineering challenges. You could be part of this exciting team!

Salary: £31,500 plus a £3000 joining bonus. Dynamic (Hybrid) Working: 3/4 days per week on-site due to workload classification. 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.

Placements and responsibilities

You could be working across a variety of mechanical engineering placements, with hands-on experience and interaction with hardware actively encouraged to deepen understanding of the product. You may experience placements in some of the following areas:

• Mechanical Design - involvement in all stages of design from concept development through to manufacture, typically CAD-driven, with opportunity to participate in laboratory test programs.
• Mechanical Future Concepts - early-stage product lifecycle work from concept generation to R&D studies in missile technology.
• Mechanical Analysis - develop specialist technical solutions with Finite Element Analysis (FEA) tools and laboratory testing to conduct detailed stress and thermal analysis on structures and mechanical systems.
• Actuation Systems - multidisciplinary electro-mechanical design of fin, wing and seeker actuation systems.
• Materials and Processes Group - advise design teams on materials science principles and evaluate ideas for material compatibility, with involvement in top-tier research and practical lab-based assessments.

You will be contributing to meaningful work from the outset; all work is relevant to a project. You can experience placements in a broad set of areas aligned with the department’s focus.

Qualifications

Degree qualified in Mechanical Engineering, Aeronautical Engineering or a comparable subject to a minimum of 2:2.

Benefits and additional information

• 25 days of paid annual leave per calendar year, plus statutory and public holidays. After 5, 10 and 15 years of service, an additional day of annual leave is added at each milestone. You can purchase up to five additional holiday days.
• Dynamic Working policies offering flexibility around hours and where you work, with options for paid overtime and time in lieu depending on role.
• Retirement Savings Plan: Defined Contribution through Mercer Master Trust (SCG/Scottish Widows), with standard employer and employee contributions. Potential to increase contributions.
• Financial wellbeing: access to free financial webinars and a financial education website.
• Share Incentive Plan: acquire shares in MBDA/related group.
• Mortgage advice, season ticket loan, and other financial wellbeing benefits.
• Health and wellbeing: Critical Illness cover, Employee Assistance Programme, Private Medical Insurance options (including funded and standard plans), Dental Insurance, Healthcare Cash Plan, and Healthcare and Leisure benefit.
• Online learning platforms: Percipio, YouLearn, Career Builder and Video Gateway, with learning support and up to £150 per year for further study if pursued in your own time.
• Management and leadership training opportunities for those interested in leading teams.
• On-site facilities and lifestyle benefits including gym memberships and social/club activities.
• Enhanced family leave provisions and parental leave enhancements to support employees during life events.
• Security and eligibility requirements: must meet BPSS checks; British citizenship or dual UK nationality with British citizenship required as applicable.