Research and Development Graduate

2026 Research and Development Graduate – Join Thales UK to develop engineering solutions in aerospace, defence and space.

• Permanent role from day one
• Work on exciting projects within our business units
• Receive mentorship and support from our Engineering Leadership team
• Focus on research and development with opportunities to rotate between functional domains

• Design, develop and test engineering solutions for customers
• Work with cross‑functional teams to integrate software, algorithms and hardware
• Identify and solve technical challenges using technologies such as Java, C++, MATLAB and Python
• Document solutions and contribute to technical knowledge bases
• Use engineering best practices to meet quality, safety and performance requirements

• Bachelor’s degree (or expected to complete) in a STEM subject – Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics, Engineering or related field
• Strong analytical, problem‑solving and communication skills
• Proficiency in programming (Java, C++, Python) and mathematical modelling is an advantage
• Passion for engineering, curiosity, teamwork and a drive to learn and grow
• Willingness to work on projects that support national security and defence missions

• £34,000 per annum salary plus performance‑related pay
• 7 days annual leave plus bank holidays, plus a company day
• Company pension, health care cash plan and life insurance
• Discount portal and performance‑related pay uplifts
• 80 hours volunteering in the first two years

• Security clearance required (SC); SC clearance will be achieved prior to starting employment
• Permanent right to work in the UK required
• Equal opportunities employer – Thales is committed to diversity and inclusion
• Graduate development programme is 3 years with structured learning pathways and mentorship from Engineering Leadership

Applications close 11:59 pm on Monday, 5 January 2026. Early application is encouraged.

Assessment centres will be held between February and May 2026. Induction week starts 7 September 2026.

For questions, contact the Thales Future Talent Team. All communication is conducted in respectful and inclusive manners.