Weapon System Network Communications Engineer - Undergraduate Programme 2026

MBDA UK Ltd; Bristol; Hybrid; GBP 23,000 - 28,000; Part time

Job summary

A leading defence organisation is offering a 1 year placement opportunity for undergraduates in Network Communications in Bristol. Candidates must be working towards a relevant degree and have a passion for developing technical skills. This hybrid role includes involvement in real-world projects related to secure communication systems for weapon systems. Benefits include a company bonus, pension contributions, and additional leave options.

Benefits

Company bonus

Pension contributions

Paid overtime

25 days annual leave

Flexi leave

Subsidised meals

Qualifications

• Working towards a relevant degree.
• Passion for developing Network Communications skills.
• Ability to work independently and in a team.

Responsibilities

• Deliver Systems Engineering and Network Communications expertise.
• Develop secure communication systems into MBDA Weapon Systems.
• Participate in major defence programmes and internal studies.

Skills

Network Communications

Systems Engineering

Team Working

Education

Degree in Electrical and Electronic Engineering

Aerospace Engineering

Physics

Mathematics

Computer Science

Job description

Weapon System Network Communications Engineer - Undergraduate Programme 2026

The Network Communications Department at MBDA is offering a fantastic 1 year placement opportunity to undergraduates with a passion for developing and applying their Network Communications skills and knowledge.

Salary: £23,495

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.

Closing date for this role is midnight on 5 January 2026 (subject to application volumes).

What we can offer you

• 1 year placement: starting September 2026, that allows you to apply your university learning to real-world projects and technologies
• Company bonus: based on company performance and will vary year to year
• Pension: maximum total (employer and employee) contribution of up to 14%
• Overtime: opportunity for paid overtime
• Annual Leave: 25 days plus option to purchase extra holiday
• Flexi Leave: Up to 15 additional days
• Facilities: fantastic site facilities including subsidised meals, free car parking and much more

The opportunity

The Network Communications Department is responsible for delivering secure communication systems into MBDA Weapon Systems across the whole Project Life Cycle. We offer game-changing communication technologies that shape the key capabilities of current and future weapon systems. As the complexity of the battlefield increases, so too do our customers' capability needs! Consequently, we have evolved to provide the necessary expertise across a large range of weapon system aspects, much wider than just the missile itself, ensuring MBDA's products are fit for purpose and delivered on time and to cost.

As a member of our Department, we will develop you to deliver Systems Engineering and Network Communications expertise to the latest Complex Weapons Projects, in one or more of the following areas: Networked Weapons, Platform to Missile Communications, Battlefield Communications, and Missile-to-Missile Communications. You will join a team that nurtures a positive and collaborative culture, and have the opportunity to work across a wide range of areas from major defence programmes, to internal research and development studies, to hands-on laboratory experience. Work will require a combination of both independent and team working, plus offer you the flexibility for hybrid working where possible.

What we\'re looking for from you

Working towards a degree in Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Electronics with Communications, Aerospace Engineering, Physics, Mathematics or Computer Science discipline.

Our company

Peace is not a given, Freedom is not a given, Sovereignty is not a given

MBDA is a leading defence organisation. We are proud of the role we play in supporting the Armed Forces who protect our nations. We partner with governments to work together towards a common goal, defending our freedom.

We are proud of our employee-led networks, examples include: Gender Equality, Pride, Menopause Matters, Parents and Carers, Armed Forces, Ethnic Diversity, Neurodiversity, Disability and more...

We recognise that everyone is unique, and we encourage you to speak to us should you require any advice, support or adjustments throughout our recruitment process.

Follow us on LinkedIn (MBDA), X (@MBDA_UK), Instagram (MBDA_UK) and Glassdoor or visit our MBDA Careers website for more information.

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