Laser DEW Effects Tools and Simulation Engineer

The opportunity:

DragonFire has been and continues to be a boundary pushing weapon system development programme that has significant industry and customer engagement. Thus far the programme has been aimed at developing the UKs first Laser Directed Energy Weapon (LDEW) concept demonstrator, achieving significant success recently with several highly publicised trials activities. Following on from these successes MBDA is looking for flexible and motivated candidates to continue to develop DragonFire into a world class, deployable, LDEW air defence system. Our ambitious plans involve parallel and interleaved streams of pioneering technology experimentation and rapid weapon system development, providing opportunities across the key system domain of Effects and Vulnerability (E&V).

DEW E&V is the part of MBDA Sparkworks which determines the effectiveness of novel weapons. This role is specific to the lasers part of the group.

LDEW E&V engineers develop mathematical models and simulations to predict the effectiveness of a Laser weapon system on a target. Data gathered from trials and experiments investigating the physical effects of laser-matter interactions is used to calibrate and evolve these models, and outputs from the simulations are interpreted to understand the effects on a particular target.

You will apply and augment toolsets and simulations for immediate and applied use on the Dragonfire MDC programme. This role will be the lead for some tasks and work packages, interacting across the project and leading a small team to deliver. It is an ambition for the role to take control of a multifaceted set of tools, prioritising development and delivery according to business need.

What we're looking for from you:

• Experience in the development of tools, simulations or algorithms in the MATLAB or similar toolsets
• A proven track record in delivering, or, proving and testing complex simulations written in the Simulink or similar environment
• An understanding of how to represent nuanced system behaviour including embedded code, firmware and processes within time-based simulation methods
• An understanding of Object-Oriented MATLAB or similar toolset
• An understanding of how to build semi-empirical toolsets using both test and experimental data and (sometimes emergent) theory
• An ability to simplify and codify complex system interactions
• A sound understanding of version control principles, and the ability to implement them
• The ability to manage and deliver a network of interconnected product releases
• Excellent leadership skills
• A proven track record in delivering on time, cost and quality
• An appreciation of "trading requirements"
• An ability to manage budgets within a team environment
• This role requires a candidate to be or become DV cleared

Experience in the following would be advantageous:

• Ansys Fluent, COMSOL or similar Multiphysics tool
• Complex system design in a deeply technical environment

Our company:

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.

What we can offer you:

• Company Bonus: Bonus of up to 21% of base salary
• Pension: maximum total (employer and employee) contribution of up to 14%
• Enhanced parental leave: offers up to 26 weeks for maternity, adoption and shared parental leave. Enhancements are available for paternity leave, neonatal leave and fertility testing and treatments.
• Facilities: Fantastic site facilities including subsidised meals, free car parking and much more…
• Training and Development: Excellent career progression, training and career development opportunities

Salary: up to £65,000 depending on experience

Location: Bristol (We may be able to offer a relocation package for this role)

Dynamic (hybrid) working: 3-4 days per week on-site due to workload classification

Security Clearance: Sole British National only, due to the specific classification of this role.

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