Service Architect - Defence

Thales is a global technology leader with more than 83,000 employees on five continents. With over 7,500 people in the UK, operating across defence, space, aerospace, and digital security, we help build a future we can all trust. Thales supports the security and stability of our nation by providing extraordinary technology to our customers, as well as delivering social value to the UK with our products and services.

Missile Architect (IAS)

Location:

based in Belfast, 4.5 days/ week in office (onsite), with %
Other:  permanent, full-time, for eligible candidates, relocation support can be provided
If you're excited by the opportunity to shape the future of missile capability, influence strategic technology decisions and work at the forefront of defence innovation, read on to discover how you can make an impact.
Shape Future Missile Concepts -  play a key role in developing next-generation missile and effector architectures, helping to assess and integrate the technologies that will deliver future defence capability
You'll work across multiple technologies and programmes, building broad architectural expertise
Reporting to the Head of Capability Development Missiles, you'll join a team responsible for assessing emerging technologies, developing missile concept architectures, and supporting the future direction of Thales' effector portfolio. Working within Capability Development, you'll help evaluate subsystem technologies, contribute to architectural studies, and support the development of innovative solutions that meet evolving customer and operational needs. As a Missile Architect, you'll have the opportunity to develop towards Product Design Authority (PDA) responsibilities, building your technical leadership capability while contributing to the development of future missile concepts and technologies.

You'll work alongside experienced Missile Architects, systems engineers, customers, suppliers, and multidisciplinary teams to conduct technical studies, develop concept solutions, and contribute to technology roadmaps that help shape future missile capability.
Building a Future, we can all trust.
We provide rapid integrated solutions for detection, coordination, fire control, engagement and support. Surface Attack & Air Defence (UK), Air Defence (International) and Air Operations & Services as well as Space.
We offer a competitive salary and benefits package designed to support our employees’ wellbeing and professional growth, which includes:

~ Performance-related bonus
~ 28 days annual leave (plus bank holidays) with opportunity to buy up to 40 hours/year (pro rata)
~Private healthcare
~ Pension scheme
~ Life cover
~24/7 Employee Assistance Program and access to mental wellbeing app
~ Employee discount shopping schemes on major brands and retailers
~ Gym membership discounts

Support the development of missile and effector concept architectures  aligned to future capability requirements
Conduct architectural trade studies and technical assessments  considering performance, cost, schedule, and risk
Develop, maintain, and apply modelling and analysis tools  to support technical decision-making
Support technology roadmap development,  investment planning activities, and capability growth across the missile engineering community

Degree-qualified in Engineering or a numerate discipline  , with the ability to obtain and maintain UK Security Clearance (SC)
Proven experience in missile, effector or complex defence systems engineering  , with expertise across multiple technology domains and a strong understanding of system architecture, CONOPS and CONUSE
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills  , with a track record of applying engineering judgement, technical analysis and…