LDEW Systems Engineer – High-Power Naval Laser Deployable

MBDA UK Limited; West of England; Hybrid; GBP 45,000 - 61,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Company bonus

Pension 14%

Overtime

Flexi Leave

Flexible working

Enhanced parental leave

Facilities

Healthcare plan

Job summary

MBDA is seeking LDEW engineers to help deploy the first Laser Directed Energy Weapon onto Royal Navy ships under the DragonFire program. You will work at the intersection of laser physics and systems engineering, turning advanced science into a rugged, certified weapon system.

The role requires a PhD or equivalent experience, strong communication, and a drive to solve hard problems. Hybrid work with on-site days, BPSS clearance, and a competitive package are offered.

Qualifications

• PhD or significant industry experience in laser technology at a system level, ideally with high power lasers.
• Profound understanding of laser physics and optics and ability to influence design of new tech.
• Ability to explain complex laser/optics concepts to stakeholders at all levels.
• Persistent, problem-solving mindset and capability to trade system capabilities for quality products.
• Background in defence or development of complex, mission-critical systems is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Translate cutting-edge laser science into a rugged, deployable weapon system for naval use.
• Oversee design certification and final system integration across the lifecycle.
• Refine requirements and perform performance analysis for integration with combat platforms.
• Collaborate within a dedicated LDEW team to deliver a world-class defense capability.

Skills

Laser tech

System engineering

Strong communication

Problem solving

Team collaboration

Defence sector experience

Education

PhD or equivalent in laser technology (system level)

Job description

MBDA is seeking LDEW engineers to help deploy the first Laser Directed Energy Weapon onto Royal Navy ships under the DragonFire program. You will work at the intersection of laser physics and systems engineering, turning advanced science into a rugged, certified weapon system.

The role requires a PhD or equivalent experience, strong communication, and a drive to solve hard problems. Hybrid work with on-site days, BPSS clearance, and a competitive package are offered.