Hardware Design Authority in Luton

Salary Range Lead: £60k – £84k. Leonardo UK operates a grade-based salary framework with broad bands. The salary range shown reflects the approved grade band for this role, or a narrower hiring range published within that band, and is benchmarked against the external market. Exceptions above the standard range are managed through governance controls to protect internal equity. Where this vacancy is being recruited across more than one grade, the successful candidate will be appointed to a specific assessed grade, and the applicable salary range will be that associated with the grade of appointment. Leonardo offers an additional allowance for some roles.

Responsibilities

• The Hardware Design Authority is responsible for the delivery of high‑performance self‑protection systems installed on fast jet, UAV, land and naval platforms.
• Work closely with Integrated Project Teams (IPTs) and Programme Design Authorities to ensure a smooth Hardware Delivery programme consistent with Leonardo’s internal Hardware processes.
• Include qualification, support to production deliveries, repairs and support.
• Be technically responsible for the Hardware Architecture within a growing and exciting project, ensuring it meets internal processes and controls.
• Provide detailed understanding of the electronic architecture of equipment and interface closely with Systems, Mechanical, Firmware areas to ensure the architecture meets internal processes.
• Support product life‑cycle activities such as Qualification, Design Changes, Obsolescence cycles.
• Understand technical elements of the Hardware implementation, fully document and record work products, keep them under configuration management, and provide plans and progress reports.
• Work within a multi‑disciplined team of engineers to resolve technical issues and attend project update meetings with good interpersonal skills.
• Produce reports where necessary and work to Leonardo test and design procedures.

Qualifications

• Electronics Engineer with experience at a high level and familiarity with the full product development lifecycle.
• Thorough understanding of overall system/sub‑system function and key performance drivers.
• Awareness and understanding of broad technical areas such as electronics hardware, software, firmware, power, integration, RF, safety, and how a product comes together from all stages.
• Experience taking a product through the full engineering life cycle.
• Experience in testing RF and Microwave designs as well as integrated digital and high‑speed products.
• Ability to provide experienced guidance/coaching to other members of the discipline to promote best practice sharing and knowledge exploitation.
• Ability to understand and manage technical risks.
• Strong communication skills and ability to negotiate and influence within an international multi‑partner team.
• Experience within the defence industry (preferred).
• Experience working with airborne platforms (preferred).
• Experience with safety‑critical systems (preferred).
• Security clearance – Security Check (SC) or Developed Vetting (DV) (preferred).

Security & Vetting

This role is subject to pre‑employment screening in line with the UK Government’s Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS). Additional personnel security controls referred to as National Security Vetting (NSV) may apply, which could include meeting the eligibility requirements for the Security Check (SC) or Developed Vetting (DV).

Benefits

• Comprehensive company‑funded benefits package supporting wellbeing, career development, and work‑life balance.
• Generous leave with the opportunity to accrue up to 12 additional flexi‑days each year.
• Award‑winning pension scheme with up to 15% employer contribution.
• Free access to mental‑health support, financial advice, and employee‑led networks championing inclusion and diversity.
• Eligible for bonus scheme at management level and below.
• Free access to 4,000+ online courses via Coursera and LinkedIn Learning.
• Referral programme with financial reward.
• Flexible benefits up to £500 annually for private healthcare, dental, family cover, tech & lifestyle discounts, gym memberships, etc.
• Flexible working with hybrid options. For part‑time opportunities, speak about potential fit.

Employment Details

Primary Location: GB – Luton – Cap. Green 300
Contract Type: Permanent
Hybrid Working: Hybrid

International, multicultural, innovative, technological – Leonardo. The company’s passionate and talented team is strongly influenced by STEM expertise.