Electro-Optic Systems Engineer

Job Description:

The Future Seekers Team is looking to recruit an Electro-Optic Systems Engineer. The Future Seekers Team mandate is to rapidly develop and mature seeker technologies to prototype demonstrator (Technology Readiness Level
5). Technology development comprises activities including concept development; performance modelling; algorithm development; software, hardware and firmware development; systems integration and testing.

As Electro-Optic Systems Engineer, you will lead the integration of and testing of EO seeker prototypes, working with other disciplines. A typical development could be a technology prototype demonstrator. The candidate will lead the specification, development and be involved in system testing. The candidate should be able to liaise and ideally contribute to the design with experts in the sub system areas including electronics, software, firmware, and mechanical engineering.

This role may also be of interest with someone from an applications background wishing to gain exposure to research and develop a more theoretical career.

• Contribution to the generation of new seeker concepts
• Generation of system and sub-systems requirements
• Working with test engineers to characterise performance
• Algorithm development and data analysis
• Trials activities

We can envisage a candidate coming from various backgrounds for example:

• Proven experience as an Electro Optics system development and integration. Ideally, you will have an engineering or science-based Honours degree or equivalent experience.
• An electronic engineering background, with an understanding of passive and active EO systems. The candidate would ideally have systems engineering experience or aspire to move into a systems engineering role with mentoring.

We are not expecting you to have deep theoretical knowledge of electro-optics or infrared systems, what we are looking for are Systems Engineers with applied engineering experience that we can build upon through training, team working and mentoring.

• Electronic engineering
• Electro-optic systems

• Working on integration programmes, having managed issues associated with cost, schedule & quality implications.
• Experience of sensor performance modelling and image analysis
• Software development in MATLAB or Python
• Practitioner level ability using Model Driven Engineering tool e.g. Simulink, DOORS (classic)
• Relevant experience in RF or EE sensor systems
• Understanding of complex weapons systems employment

This is not an exhaustive list, and we are keen to hear from you even if you might not have experience in all the above. The most important skill is a good attitude and willingness to learn.

This role is subject to pre-employment screening in line with the UK Government’s Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS). An additional range of Personnel Security Controls referred to as National Security Vetting (NSV) may apply, this could include meeting the eligibility requirements for The Security Check (SC) or Developed Vetting (DV). For more information and guidance please visit

At Leonardo, our people are at the heart of everything we do. We offer a comprehensive, company-funded benefits package that supports your wellbeing, career development, and work–life balance. Whether you’re looking to grow professionally, care for your health, or plan for the future, we’re here to help you thrive.

• Time to Recharge: Enjoy generous leave with the opportunity to accrue up to 12 additional flexi-days each year.
• Secure your Future: Benefit from our award-winning pension scheme with up to 15% employer contribution.
• Your Wellbeing Matters: Free access to mental health support, financial advice, and employee-led networks championing inclusion and diversity (Enable, Pride, Equalise, Armed Forces, Carers, Wellbeing and Ethnicity).
• Rewarding Performance: All employees at management level and below are eligible for our bonus scheme.
• Never Stop Learning: Free access to 4,000+ online courses via Coursera and Linked In Learning.
• Refer a friend: Receive a financial…