Research Engineer - Wireless Networks & Algorithms

Leonardo UK Ltd; England; Hybrid; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading defence technology firm is seeking a Systems Engineer to contribute to innovative design for airborne mesh networks in the UK’s Defence Industry. The ideal candidate will have a relevant degree and skills in algorithm design, statistical analysis, and strong interpersonal skills. This role includes responsibilities in analyzing simulations and proposing improvements, while also offering a comprehensive benefits package, including hybrid working options and professional development support.

Benefits

Generous leave with flexi-days

Up to 15% employer contribution to pension

Free mental health support

Access to online courses

Flexible working hours

Annual budget for flexible benefits

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field.
• Ability to design experiments to solve complex problems.
• Good communication skills to convey ideas.

Responsibilities

• Investigate design approaches for airborne mesh networks.
• Analyze simulations and propose design improvements.
• Assist in standardization efforts.

Skills

Algorithm Design

Graph Theory

Statistical Analysis

Interpersonal Skills

Problem-solving

Education

Degree in Mathematics, Engineering, or Physics

Tools

Python

C++

Matlab

Job description

Job Description:

Your impact

Are you a Systems Engineer who loves contributing to the UKs Defence Industry and making impactful change? We are recruiting for a Systems Engineer to investigate different approaches for the design of airborne mesh networks. Including, analysing the results of simulations and propose how to improve the design and assisting efforts to create standardisation proposals.

Our Systems Engineers span across range of activities that help pull together all the necessary engineering and technology strands into a high-performance system. As a Systems Engineer, you will bridge the gap between the theoretically possible and the practically implementable.

Typical work you might be involved in:

What you’ll bring

Required

• Related Mathematical, Engineering, Physics Degree or similar.
• Algorithm Design and Graph Theory
• Statistical Analysis
• Good interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate ideas to varied audiences.
• The ability to design mathematical meaningful experiments and interpret the results to solve complex problems

Optional

• Knowledge of Fast Fourier Transforms
• Calculus and Probability
• Experience of mathematic simulation
• Software engineering techniques
• Experience of Python or C++ programming.
• Knowledge of networking fundamentals
• Experience within wireless communication.
• Matlab Experience

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) may apply, this could include meeting the eligibility requirements 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. 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.

• 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 at management level and below are eligible for our bonus scheme.
• Never Stop Learning: Free access to 4,000+ online courses via Coursera and LinkedIn Learning.
• Refer a friend: Receive a financial reward through our referral programme.
• Tailored Perks: Spend up to £500 annually on flexible benefits including private healthcare, dental, family cover, tech & lifestyle discounts, gym memberships and more.
• Flexible working: Flexible hours with hybrid working options. For part time opportunities, please talk to us about what might be possible for this role.

For a full list of our company benefits please visit our website.

Leonardo is a global leader in Aerospace, Defence, and Security. Headquartered in Italy, we employ over 53,000 people worldwide including 8,500 across 9 sites in the UK. Our employees are not just part of a team—they are key contributors to shaping innovation, advancing technology, and enhancing global safety.

At Leonardo we are committed to building an inclusive, accessible, and welcoming workplace. We believe that a diverse workforce sparks creativity, drives innovation, and leads to better outcomes for our people and our customers. 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 - Southampton

Contract Type:

Permanent

Hybrid Working:

Hybrid