Signal Processing Systems Engineer in Southampton

Are you a Systems Engineer who loves contributing to the UK’s Defence Industry and making impactful change? We are recruiting for a Signal Processing Engineer to work on real engineering problems, designing and developing solutions that sit at the heart of our products.

Your impact

• As Signal Processing Engineer, you will be responsible for delivery of specific work packages supporting the communications system development; engaging across a range of technical disciplines such as: RF and Free Space Optical Communications, Digital Signal Processing, waveforms and network engineering.
• Modelling of communication systems.
• The design of signal processing chains for real-time implementation in FPGAs or software.
• Feasibility studies to determine system architecture.
• Working closely with other members of the waveform team across airborne communication projects as required to develop and deliver our waveforms.
• Engaging with customers and suppliers.
• Management of system requirements.

What you’ll bring

• Along with a proven background in Signal Processing, you will also have the following attributes:
• Experience in the development of military and/or civil communication systems.
• An understanding of Digital Signal Processing.
• Experience of implementing Signal Processing algorithms for real-time applications using any of the following: FPGAs, GPUs, VLIW processors, low-level software.
• Ability to produce clear and concise technical documentation.
• Graduate degree in relevant engineering, mathematics or related scientific discipline.

The following are desirable:

• Experience in communication system analysis / modelling / simulation tools (MATLAB preferred).
• Knowledge of the building blocks of baseband processing in Communications Systems including Digital Modulation, Channel Coding (FEC) and Digital Filtering.
• Knowledge of Communication Air Interface Protocols.
• An understanding of RF communication system hardware implementation (such as transmitters, receivers, filters, software defined radio).
• An understanding of how to adapt mathematical algorithms for efficient FPGA implementation.

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.

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 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 8,000 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!