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- Tasks: Lead innovative projects in weapon system design using cutting-edge technology.
- Company: Join MBDA, a top defence organisation supporting armed forces and promoting freedom.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, hybrid working, company bonuses, and enhanced parental leave.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team driving change in defence technology with real-world impact.
- Qualifications: Experience in technology adoption and strong interpersonal skills are essential.
- Other info: Flexible working arrangements and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 84000 £ per year.
Join a department that is advancing weapon system design and development through the use of Synthetic Environments and Experimentation!
Salary: Circa £75,000 depending on experience
Dynamic (hybrid) working: 3 – 4 days per week on-site due to workload classification
Security Clearance: British Citizen. 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.
What we can offer you:
- Company Bonus: Bonus of up to 27% of base salary
- Company Car: £300 per month
- Pension: maximum total (employer and employee) contribution of up to 14%
- Flexible working: We welcome applicants who are looking for flexible working arrangements
- 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
The opportunity:
The Weapon Systems Simulation and Experimentation team bring together models, simulations, real equipment and people throughout the weapon life cycle using Synthetic Environments. We have the skills and capabilities to be the Experimentation TestBed to articulate weapon system architectures in realistic multi-domain scenarios and as a result we have developed a capability that spans the full product lifecycle.
If you have a drive and determination for delivering change and describe yourself as someone with fresh ideas, join our WSSE team as the Capability Lead. The role is very varied and exciting, you will be working directly with the Head of WSSE to realise strategic initiatives and ensure the Simulation and Experimentation Facilities and capabilities are the best in class.
You will be a keen technologist, able to engage Engineers having themselves gained experience in Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning and containerisation to be able to achieve cross cutting solutions that reduce risk and dispel the traditional approach.
You will have the interpersonal skills to win hearts and minds to become a trusted part of the WSSE team and influence across the business, and with MoD as well as Industry partners. You will work collaboratively with a disparate range of partners, demonstrating your influencing and natural innovation skills to improve opportunities to accelerate Weapon System development.
What you will be doing:
- Ensure the WSSE capabilities are best in class (facilities, networks, infrastructure and processes) to deliver the WSSE vision.
- Be the WSSE Knowledge Manager, with processes to capture and share specialised skill knowledge and to encourage self-development and innovation.
- Own the Visitor Experience across the WSSE facilities within MBDA and into Overseas locations.
- Develop emerging technology plans through internal research in conjunction with the WSSE Technical Authority.
- Define and run Capital investment plans to ensure the department keeps its capabilities.
- Have line management responsibilities for first reports, including professional development, sickness, absence, expenses and performance assessment.
What we're looking for from you:
- Experience of working with key partners (internally and externally) to realise innovation and the adoption of new technologies
- Able to quickly grasp sophisticated defence concepts and articulate them, whilst holding your own technically
- Able to identify new technologies and how they can benefit systems engineering
- A curious and growth mind-set eager to learn from our specialists in the field of Synthetic Environments
Our company: Peace is not a given, Freedom is not a given, Sovereignty is not a given. 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.
We are proud of our employee-led networks, examples include: Gender Equality, Pride, Menopause Matters, Parents and Carers, Armed Forces, Ethnic Diversity, Neurodiversity and more. We recognise that everyone is unique, and we encourage you to speak to us should you require any advice, support or adjustments throughout our recruitment process.
Follow us on LinkedIn (MBDA), X (@MBDA_UK), Instagram (MBDA_UK) and Glassdoor or visit our MBDA Careers website for more information.
Capability Lead employer: MBDA
Contact Detail:
MBDA Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Capability Lead
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in Synthetic Environments and Experimentation. Understanding the current technologies and methodologies used in weapon system design will help you engage effectively with the team and demonstrate your passion for the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the defence sector, especially those involved in AI, Machine Learning, and systems engineering. Building relationships can provide insights into the company culture and expectations, which can be invaluable during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience in managing cross-functional teams and driving innovation. Highlight specific examples where you've successfully implemented new technologies or processes, as this aligns closely with the responsibilities of the Capability Lead role.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your interpersonal skills by being ready to discuss how you've influenced stakeholders in previous roles. The ability to win hearts and minds is crucial for this position, so think of examples that illustrate your collaborative approach.
We think you need these skills to ace Capability Lead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience and skills that align with the Capability Lead role. Focus on your background in technology, innovation, and collaboration with partners, as these are key aspects of the job.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for the role and the defence industry. Mention specific examples of how you've successfully implemented new technologies or led teams in previous positions.
Highlight Relevant Skills: Emphasise your experience with Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and any other technologies mentioned in the job description. Use concrete examples to demonstrate your technical understanding and ability to engage with engineers.
Showcase Interpersonal Skills: Since the role requires strong interpersonal skills, include examples of how you've influenced teams or stakeholders in past roles. This could be through successful projects, collaborations, or leadership experiences.
How to prepare for a job interview at MBDA
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of the Capability Lead position. Familiarise yourself with the key aspects of the job, such as working with Synthetic Environments and Experimentation, and be prepared to discuss how your experience aligns with these requirements.
✨Showcase Your Technical Knowledge
As a keen technologist, it's essential to demonstrate your understanding of Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and containerisation. Be ready to provide examples of how you've applied these technologies in previous roles and how they can benefit systems engineering.
✨Highlight Interpersonal Skills
The role requires strong interpersonal skills to influence and collaborate with various partners. Prepare examples of how you've successfully worked with teams or stakeholders in the past, showcasing your ability to win hearts and minds.
✨Prepare for Strategic Discussions
Since you'll be working directly with the Head of WSSE on strategic initiatives, think about how you can contribute to the department's vision. Be ready to discuss your ideas for improving capabilities and how you would approach developing emerging technology plans.
