Weapon System Equipment Project Engineer; RMO - Laser Source

Overview

Become part of a leading defence organisation developing the UK's first Laser Directed Energy Weapon (LDEW) system – Dragon Fire. This role supports the project’s rapid development programme and is key to delivering a world‑class, deployable air‑defence system.

Salary: up to £53,000, depending on experience.

• Company bonus: up to £2,500 (based on performance)
• Pension: up to 14% total contribution (employer + employee)
• Paid overtime opportunity
• Flexi‑leave: up to 15 additional days
• Flexible working arrangements welcome
• Enhanced parental leave: up to 26 weeks for maternity, adoption and shared parental leave (additional options for paternity, neonatal and fertility support)
• Facilities: subsidised meals, free car parking, and more
• Healthcare Cash Plan for everyday health, optical and dental expenses

Hybrid model – 2 to 3 days per week on site.

Security clearance:
British Citizen or Dual UK national with British citizenship. All successful candidates must undergo HMG Basic Personnel Security Standard checks (BPSS) after offer.

Report to the Effector Chief Systems Engineer and work closely with the Effector Systems RMOs for the Laser Source and Beam Director. The role focuses on the acceptance, delivery, final assembly, integration and test of two key external Effector Sub‑Systems:

• Very high‑power laser and its electro‑optical‑mechanical assembly that directs the high‑energy beam.
• Transportable container assembly integrating the Effector into the overall weapon system.

Key responsibilities include:

• Interface management with external partners (programmatic and technical).
• Acceptance, delivery and integration of the Laser Source and Beam Director into the final system.
• Support functional integration within the wider sub‑system definition.
• Lead technical work packages, demonstrating progress and managing risks.
• Engage stakeholders, build relationships and develop technical statements of work.
• Deliver project milestones, ensuring high‑quality final assembly and test outcomes.

• Proven experience in complex sub‑system delivery and integration.
• Working knowledge of electro‑optical‑mechanical systems.
• Track record with third‑party suppliers and clear technical deliverables.
• Strong stakeholder engagement and relationship‑building skills.
• Experience leading technical work packages and balancing technical risks.
• Ability to work within a programme context, supporting the evolution of Dragon Fire.

MBDA is an equal‑opportunity employer. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and encourage people to request adjustments or support throughout the recruitment process.