At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and develop complex test solutions for cutting-edge electronic systems.
- Company: Join Leonardo, a global leader in Aerospace, Defence, and Security.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, and a comprehensive benefits package.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team that values creativity and innovation.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in engineering while working with innovative technologies.
- Qualifications: Hands-on experience in designing test solutions and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 40507 - 49509 £ per year.
Your Impact:
Leonardo has a fantastic opportunity for a Principal Test Solutions Engineer to support the Engineering Management and development of Test Solutions. As the engineering point of contact and Principal Engineer for the subcontract of complex test solutions, the Principal Test Solutions Engineer will need to be a talented and experienced Engineer, familiar with working on complex electronic (ideally RF, Digital and analogue based) Test Solutions.
What you will do:
- The scope of work can range from design and technical problem solving to test solution development.
- Create and capture Test Equipment Requirements for RF, Digital and Analogue based test systems.
- Create and capture Production Test Requirements for main equipment, covering PCB and System Level testing.
- Support subcontracting complex test solutions to the supply chain.
- Support the relationships between LEUK and 3rd party suppliers to deliver test solutions to schedule and budget, working alongside other functions/teams.
- Ensure the main product supplier technical queries are resolved in a timely manner.
- Ensure effective implementation of the company's Life-cycle design reviews.
- Identify technical risks and mitigation strategies e.g. with test solutions or obsolescence.
- Maintain the main equipment configuration baseline with 3rd party supplier information.
- Support the integration and commissioning of delivered test solutions.
- Input to Material Review Boards and Failure Review Boards.
- Concession management – ensuring effective closure plans are in place and enacted.
- Perform Design for Test assessments on analogue, digital and RF products.
What you’ll bring:
- Hands-on experience of designing complex Test Solutions for the full life cycle.
- Good understanding of a range of electronic technologies from dc to light or a good understanding of Systems/Software engineering lifecycle.
- Experience of working with external suppliers and outsourcing complex work packages.
- Experience of NI LabVIEW & TestStand.
- Degree qualified (or equivalent).
- Good schedule planning and budget control experience.
- Ability to communicate effectively with a wide range of stakeholders.
- Strong leadership competency but also can demonstrate team working skills.
- Knowledge of engineering life cycle and business process.
It would be nice if you had:
- Good understanding of digital/analogue/RF systems with ESM and ECM.
- Experience of working in the defence electronics sector, ideally with airborne sensor systems.
- Chartered Engineer status, or a member of a professional engineering institution.
- Travel within the UK and Europe may be required for this role.
Security Clearance:
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).
Why join us:
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.
- 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 LinkedIn Learning.
- Refer a friend: Receive a financial reward through our referral programme.
- Tailored Perks: Spend up to 500 annually on flexible benefits including private healthcare, dental, family cover, tech & lifestyle discounts, gym memberships and more.
- Flexible working: Flexible hours with hybrid working options. For part time opportunities, please talk to us about what might be possible for this role.
For a full list of our company benefits please visit our website. Leonardo is a global leader in Aerospace, Defence, and Security. Headquartered in Italy, we employ over 53,000 people worldwide including 8,500 across 9 sites in the UK. Our employees are not just part of a team—they are key contributors to shaping innovation, advancing technology, and enhancing global safety.
At Leonardo we are committed to building an inclusive, accessible, and welcoming workplace. We believe that a diverse workforce sparks creativity, drives innovation, and leads to better outcomes for our people and our customers. If you have any accessibility requirements to support you during the recruitment process, just let us know.
Be part of something bigger - apply now!
Primary Location: GB - Luton
Contract Type: Permanent
Hybrid Working: Hybrid
Job Summary Job number: R0028982 Date posted: 2026-06-10 Profession: Engineering Employment type: Full time
Principal Test Solutions Engineer in Luton employer: Leonardo DRS
Leonardo DRS is an excellent employer for students seeking practical experience in a supportive and dynamic environment. Located in Bedford, the company fosters a collaborative work culture that encourages personal growth and skill development, making it an ideal place for young individuals to kickstart their careers in inventory management and logistics. With hands-on training and mentorship opportunities, students can gain valuable insights while contributing to meaningful projects over their temporary tenure.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Test Solutions Engineer in Luton
✨Join Engineering Meetups!
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We think you need these skills to ace Principal Test Solutions Engineer in Luton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Expertise:When applying for an engineering role like Principal Test Solutions Engineer, it’s essential to highlight your technical skills. Include any relevant software or tools you're proficient in on your CV—think CAD software, simulation tools, or programming languages. Don't skimp on any engineering projects you've worked on that demonstrate your ability to solve complex problems.
Focus on Results and Impact:In the engineering world, we love numbers and real-world impact. Quantify your achievements wherever possible—like reducing costs by a certain percentage, improving efficiency, or successfully completing a project ahead of schedule. This gives your future employers at Leonardo DRS a clear picture of the value you can bring.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to express your passion for engineering and explain why you’re drawn to Leonardo DRS specifically. Share what aspects of their work excite you and how your values align with theirs. This is your chance to show a bit of personality while keeping it professional!
Include Relevant Certifications:If you have any engineering certifications, especially ones that are recognised in your field, make sure to feature them prominently on your CV. They demonstrate not just your knowledge, but also your commitment to professional development, which is something we at StudySmarter value highly.
How to prepare for a job interview at Leonardo DRS
✨Brush Up on Core Engineering Principles
Before heading into the interview with Leonardo DRS, make sure you're solid on the fundamental engineering principles relevant to the role. Be ready to discuss concepts such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, or structural analysis, depending on the specifics mentioned in the job description. Don’t skip any hands-on projects or coursework; these can be excellent talking points!
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
Expect technical questions or case studies during your interview—after all, engineering is all about solving problems! Prepare a few examples of how you've tackled engineering challenges in the past, whether at university or in any practical experience. Practising with mock technical interviews can really help you articulate your thought process and solutions.
✨Relate Your Experience to the Role
In a full-time role, employers like Leonardo DRS want to see that you can adapt and grow within their team. Be ready to discuss how your previous internships, projects, or studies relate directly to the work you'll be doing. Highlight specific experiences that showcase your collaborative skills and how you've successfully worked within a team environment.
✨Know Your Tools and Software
Most engineering roles require familiarity with specific tools and software. Prepare to talk about your proficiency with programmes like AutoCAD, MATLAB, or SolidWorks if they’re relevant to the role. Even better, have examples of projects where you’ve used these tools, as it'll demonstrate your hands-on experience and readiness for the job.
