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- Tasks: Join us to design and integrate cutting-edge hardware for defence systems.
- Company: Leonardo is a global leader in Aerospace, Defence, and Security, employing over 53,000 worldwide.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, mental health support, and access to 4,000+ online courses.
- Why this job: Be part of innovative projects that enhance global safety while working in a diverse team.
- Qualifications: HNC/HND or degree in Electronic Engineering, plus experience in circuit design and hardware integration.
- Other info: This role requires security clearance; hybrid working options are available.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 84000 £ per year.
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Your impact
Are you an experienced Hardware Engineer that would like to aid in the delivery of high-performance digital hardware that forms part of our self-protection systems and is installed on fast jet, UAV, land and naval platforms? If so, keep reading!
Job Description
Your impact
Are you an experienced Hardware Engineer that would like to aid in the delivery of high-performance digital hardware that forms part of our self-protection systems and is installed on fast jet, UAV, land and naval platforms? If so, keep reading!
We are recruiting for Principal and Lead Hardware Engineers to be part of various teams within the EW sector to support our next generation electronic platforms. You will experience the full engineering lifecycle within Leonardo assisting with requirement and architecture definition and maturation, the design of new novel PCB
level electronics and work with the wider project team to support integration and qualification of product
What You Will Do
- Support throughout the full hardware lifecycle from requirements analysis; through design, and unit test; to integrating hardware with the target system; and lastly to acceptance test and delivery to customer
- Fully document and record your work products; keeping them under configuration management, and providing plans and progress reports
- Support the integration of hardware, firmware and software within your project
- Support product team qualification activities
- Support trials proving activities
- Design high speed digital Printed Circuit Boards that utilise the latest FPGA, Microprocessor and high speed interconnect technologies
- Work within a multi-disciplined team of engineers to solve real integration problems on complex systems
What You’ll Bring
- Either an HNC/HND or Undergraduate Degree (Electronic Engineering, Physics, or Systems based) or you may just have lots of skills and experience gained through your hard work.
- Familiarity with circuit design (schematic capture) layout and simulation design tools
- Mixed signal knowledge using ADC/DAC, FPGA, SoC based design for high performance signal processing, communications and control.
- Integrating in-house designs with COTS modules (power supplies, single board computers, RF interfaces)
- Practical experience of debugging, testing and verifying new designs
- DFx knowledge specifically Design for EMC and EMI
- Analysis of system level requirements documents and understanding their application to Hardware designs
- Design of high speed serial communication links and knowledge of associated protocols and architectures
- Hands on experience of Hardware, Firmware & Software Integration of Micro Processor Based designs onto hardware platforms is essential
- A methodical approach to the full hardware design lifecycle, working to a structured hardware process
- Debugging, testing and verification of new designs and supporting their commissioning and integration into the target system
- Specialism in your field of interest and to be able to form ideas on your own and concept designs and product using best practice
- Willing to teach others and increase your own knowledge.
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). For more information and guidance please visit https //careers.uk.leonardo.com/gb/en/security-and-vetting
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 (Enable, Pride, Equalise, Armed Forces, Carers, Wellbeing and Ethnicity).
- 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 – Cap. Green 300
Additional Locations
GB – Bristol – Coldharbour Lane
Contract Type
Permanent
Hybrid Working
Hybrid
Seniority level
-
Seniority level
Mid-Senior level
Employment type
-
Employment type
Full-time
Job function
-
Job function
Engineering and Information Technology
-
Industries
Defense and Space Manufacturing, Aviation and Aerospace Component Manufacturing, and Computer and Network Security
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Principal and Lead Hardware Engineers employer: Leonardo
Contact Detail:
Leonardo Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal and Lead Hardware Engineers
✨Tip Number 1
Make sure to showcase your hands-on experience with hardware, firmware, and software integration. Highlight specific projects where you've successfully integrated microprocessor-based designs, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest technologies in high-speed digital PCB design, especially those involving FPGAs and microprocessors. Being able to discuss recent advancements or your own experiences with these technologies can set you apart.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current employees or professionals in the defence and aerospace sectors. Engaging in conversations about their experiences at Leonardo can provide valuable insights and potentially give you an edge during interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your methodical approach to the hardware design lifecycle. Be ready to share examples of how you've managed requirements analysis, design, testing, and integration in past projects, as this aligns closely with the job expectations.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal and Lead Hardware Engineers
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience and skills that align with the job description for the Principal and Lead Hardware Engineers role. Focus on your expertise in hardware design, integration, and any specific technologies mentioned.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that not only introduces yourself but also explains why you are passionate about working at Leonardo. Mention specific projects or experiences that demonstrate your ability to contribute to high-performance digital hardware.
Highlight Relevant Projects: In your application, include details of past projects that showcase your experience with PCB design, FPGA, and microprocessor integration. Use metrics where possible to quantify your achievements and impact.
Proofread and Edit: Before submitting your application, thoroughly proofread your documents for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial in engineering roles.
How to prepare for a job interview at Leonardo
✨Showcase Your Technical Expertise
As a Principal and Lead Hardware Engineer, it's crucial to demonstrate your deep understanding of hardware design and integration. Be prepared to discuss specific projects where you've successfully designed high-speed digital PCBs or integrated complex systems, highlighting the tools and technologies you used.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills in real-world situations. Think about challenges you've faced in previous roles, particularly related to debugging and testing new designs, and be ready to explain how you approached these issues and what the outcomes were.
✨Emphasise Team Collaboration
Leonardo values teamwork, so be sure to highlight your experience working within multi-disciplined teams. Share examples of how you've collaborated with firmware and software engineers to solve integration problems, showcasing your ability to communicate effectively across disciplines.
✨Demonstrate Continuous Learning
With the fast-paced nature of technology, showing a commitment to continuous learning is essential. Discuss any recent courses or certifications you've completed, especially those related to emerging technologies in hardware engineering, and express your eagerness to further develop your skills.
