Mission Systems Engineer

QinetiQ Group plc; Lincoln; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading defence technology firm in Lincoln is seeking a Mission Systems Engineer to develop, model, and integrate mission systems contributing to UK defence. Responsibilities include enhancing simulations, developing algorithms, and mentoring junior engineers. The ideal candidate should have a relevant STEM degree and extensive experience in systems engineering, along with proficiency in programming languages such as MATLAB and Python. This full-time position offers a hybrid work model and the chance to work with cutting-edge technology.

Benefits

Matched contribution pension scheme

Generous holiday allowance

Health Cash Plan options

Private medical insurance

Employee discount portal

Support for the Armed Forces community

Volunteering opportunities

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in modelling, simulation, or systems engineering.
• Proficiency in coding in one or more major programming languages (MATLAB, Python, C++, C, C#).
• Experience with digital modelling, digital twins, and algorithm development.
• Ability to lead, mentor, and collaborate within multi-disciplinary teams.
• Enthusiasm to grow, take ownership, and deliver complex technical solutions.
• Demonstrable technical experience in modelling, coding, and algorithm development.
• Experience applying AI or ML techniques in an engineering or operational context.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and enhancement of digital models and simulations of mission systems.
• Develop and oversee software and algorithm implementation in MATLAB, Python, or C++.
• Drive data fusion and algorithm development for operational mission systems.
• Mentor and support junior engineers and analysts.
• Support test, evaluation, and integration of complex mission systems.
• Apply AI and machine learning techniques to influence next-generation system design.

Skills

Modelling

Simulation

Systems engineering

Coding in MATLAB

Coding in Python

Coding in C++

Algorithm development

AI techniques

Machine learning techniques

Education

STEM degree in Physics, Applied Mathematics, or Engineering

Job description

As a Mission Systems Engineer, you will lead and influence the development, modelling, and integration of mission systems, helping to improve the operational effectiveness and performance of UK defence platforms. Day‑to‑day, you’ll work across the sensor‑to‑effect chain, taking responsibility for digital modelling, algorithm development, data fusion, and software development. You will mentor junior engineers, provide technical leadership, and collaborate with cross‑functional teams to deliver integrated solutions, including AI and machine learning applications for next‑generation systems.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and enhancement of digital models and simulations of mission systems
• Develop and oversee software and algorithm implementation in MATLAB, Python, or C++
• Drive data fusion and algorithm development for operational mission systems
• Mentor and support junior engineers and analysts
• Support test, evaluation, and integration of complex mission systems
• Apply AI and machine learning techniques to influence next‑generation system design

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in modelling, simulation, or systems engineering
• Proficiency in coding in one or more major programming languages (MATLAB, Python, C++, C, C#)
• Experience with digital modelling, digital twins, and algorithm development
• Ability to lead, mentor, and collaborate within multi‑disciplinary teams
• Enthusiasm to grow, take ownership, and deliver complex technical solutions
• STEM degree in Physics, Applied Mathematics, or Engineering
• Demonstrable technical experience in modelling, coding, and algorithm development
• Experience applying AI or ML techniques in an engineering or operational context

We value difference and we don’t have a fixed idea when it comes to background or education. Provided you can show the required level of experience and willingness to learn, we would like to hear from you.

What We Offer

Are you ready to be part of the future? At QinetiQ, we’re not just imagining tomorrow, we are creating it. From cutting‑edge defence technology to ground‑breaking innovations, our mission is to empower and protect lives. Join us as a Mission Systems Engineer at our Alpha Court in Lincoln site, where you will have the opportunity to work with cutting‑edge technology in partnership with some of the most brilliant minds.

• Matched contribution pension scheme with life assurance
• Generous holiday allowance with the option to purchase additional days
• Options to join Health Cash Plan, Private Medical Insurance, and Dental Insurance
• Employee discount portal: Personal Accident Insurance, Travel Insurance, Restaurants, Cinema Tickets, and more
• Support for the Armed Forces community through the Armed Forces Covenant
• Volunteering opportunities helping charities and local communities

Why Join QinetiQ?

QinetiQ operates state‑of‑the‑art facilities across the UK that focus on defence, security and technology innovation. This role is full‑time, permanent, based at our Alpha Court in Lincoln. Hybrid working patterns are available. Travel to other QinetiQ and customer sites will be expected. As we continue to grow into new markets around the world, there’s never been a more exciting time to join QinetiQ. The formula for success is our appetite for innovation and the courage to take on complex challenges. As a QinetiQ employee, you’ll experience a unique working environment where teams from different backgrounds and disciplines collaborate openly. You’ll discover new ways of solving complex problems in a diverse and inclusive environment where you can be authentic, feel valued, and realize your full potential. Read more about our workplace culture at www.qinetiq.com/en/careers/life-at-qinetiq

Recruitment Process

We want to make sure that our recruitment process is as inclusive as possible and we aspire to bring out the best in our candidates by creating an environment where everyone feels valued, heard, and supported. If you have a disability or health condition that may affect your performance in certain assessment types, please speak to your Recruiter about potential reasonable adjustments. Many roles in QinetiQ are subject to national security vetting being completed, applicants who already hold the appropriate level of vetting may be able to transfer it upon appointment. A number of roles are also subject to additional restrictions, which means factors such as nationality or previous nationalities may affect the roles that you can be employed in.

Please note that all applicants for this role must be eligible for SC clearance, as a minimum.