Senior Algorithm Engineer

MBDA UK Ltd; Bristol; Hybrid; GBP 55,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading defense organization is seeking a Senior Algorithm Engineer in Bristol to develop expertise in Guidance & Control design. This role involves influencing missile system design and collaborating across departments. The ideal candidate has extensive knowledge of aerospace systems and experience with Matlab & Simulink. Benefits include a salary up to £65,000, a company bonus, and flexible working arrangements.

Benefits

Company Bonus up to 21%

Maximum 14% employer contribution to pension

Subsidized meals

Free parking

Enhanced parental leave

Qualifications

• Extensive knowledge of aerospace guidance, control, and navigation systems.
• Ability to define clear design requirements and manage system complexity.
• Experience in system verification and modelling (Matlab & Simulink).

Responsibilities

• Develop expertise in Guidance & Control design from algorithm development to system architecture.
• Influence the design and testing of missile Guidance & Control systems.
• Collaborate across departments and programs from research to flight trials.

Skills

Aerospace guidance and control knowledge

System verification and modelling (Matlab & Simulink)

Strong communication skills

Technical leadership

Job description

The Senior Algorithm Engineer role in GCN (Guidance, Control, and Navigation) is a highly visible, strategic position, working with a highly capable technical team. This role offers a rare opportunity for hands-on technical involvement, research, and strategic steering, without line management duties.

Salary: Up to £65,000, depending on experience

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

Restrictions and/or limitations relating to nationality and/or rights to work may apply. All successful candidates will need to undergo HMG Basic Personnel Security Standard checks (BPSS), managed by the MBDA Personnel Security Team.

What we can offer you:

• Company Bonus: Bonus of up to 21% of base salary
• Pension: maximum total (employer and employee) contribution of up to 14%
• Flexible working: We welcome applicants seeking flexible arrangements
• Enhanced parental leave: Up to 26 weeks for maternity, adoption, and shared parental leave; enhancements available for paternity, neonatal, and fertility treatments
• Facilities: Subsidised meals, free parking, and more

The opportunity:

As a Senior Algorithm Specialist, you will develop expertise in Guidance & Control design, from detailed algorithm development to system architecture, demonstrating rigorous system analysis and managing complexity.

You will influence the design and testing of missile Guidance & Control systems, working with algorithms, real-time architecture, and complex equipment such as RF & IR seekers, inertial sensors, actuators, propulsion systems, and interfaces to launch platforms.

You will collaborate across departments and programs, from research to flight trials.

What we're looking for from you:

• Extensive knowledge of aerospace guidance, control, and navigation systems, including analysis, algorithm design, and real-time architecture
• Ability to define clear design requirements and manage system complexity
• Experience in system verification and modelling (Matlab & Simulink)
• Strong communication skills for explaining complex ideas
• Ability to diagnose system issues physically and virtually
• Influential technical leadership skills
• Interest in control applications, preferably flight control (not essential)

Our company:

MBDA is a leading defense organization committed to supporting armed forces and defending sovereignty. We value diversity and encourage open communication and support throughout our recruitment process.

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