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- Tasks: Join a dynamic team to design and evaluate cutting-edge missile propulsion systems.
- Company: MBDA, a leading defence organisation shaping the future of aerospace technology.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, joining bonus, flexible leave, and excellent career progression.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with mentorship and opportunities for placements outside MBDA.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in defence technology while developing your engineering skills.
- Qualifications: Degree in Aerospace, Mechanical Engineering, or related fields with a minimum 2:2.
The predicted salary is between 31500 - 31500 £ per year.
Overview
Propulsion Engineer – Graduate Programme 2026
Step into one of the most dynamic and technically challenging areas of aerospace engineering – missile propulsion. As a Graduate Propulsion Engineer at MBDA, you\’ll play a part in shaping the next generation of defence technology, working on projects that are innovative, impactful and at the very forefront of engineering.
Salary: £31,500 plus a £3,000 joining bonus
Dynamic (Hybrid) Working: 4 days per week on-site due to workload classification
Security Clearance: British Citizen or a Dual UK national with British citizenship. 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.
Closing date: Midnight on 3 November 2025
What we can offer you
- 2 year Programme: starting September 2026
- Salary reviews throughout the programme
- Company bonus: Up to £2,500 (based on company performance and will vary year to year)
- Pension: maximum total (employer and employee) contribution of up to 14%
- Overtime: opportunity for paid overtime
- Annual Leave: 25 days plus option to purchase extra holiday
- Flexi Leave: Up to 15 additional days
- Excellent career progression and development opportunities
- Facilities: Fantastic site facilities including subsidised meals, free car parking and much more
The opportunity
Becoming a graduate propulsion engineer offers you the opportunity to develop the skills and expertise needed to design and evaluate the propulsion systems that power MBDA\’s advanced missile systems, including solid rockets, ramjets, and gas turbines. The Propulsion Department is central to MBDA\’s mission, supporting projects across the full product lifecycle – from early concept through to in-service support. Working closely with leading UK and international propulsion suppliers, you\’ll contribute to a wide portfolio of projects that underpin the UK\’s defence capability.
Our Propulsion Department is a collaborative team of engineers, scientists and specialists who are passionate about pushing the boundaries of what propulsion systems can achieve. You\’ll be mentored by experienced experts, learning cutting-edge modelling techniques and gaining hands-on exposure to real-world engineering challenges.
The graduate programme is structured around four 6-month placements, giving you breadth and depth across propulsion engineering. These placements cover areas such as:
- Application and development of bespoke and commercial modelling tools to evaluate propulsion performance.
- Assessment of missiles at different stages of their lifecycle (concept, development, in-service).
- Exploration of multi-disciplinary design challenges, including integration, plume, thermal, structural and system considerations.
- Understanding the role of propulsion when integrating missiles onto land, naval and air platforms.
You\’ll also have the opportunity to spend one placement outside of MBDA Propulsion – with past graduates working with organisations such as Rolls Royce, BAE Systems, DSTL, ARA, Bayern Chemie, S&C Thermofluids and Roxel Motors – to broaden your experience and perspective. By joining MBDA\’s propulsion team, you\’ll be part of a supportive environment where innovation thrives, collaboration is key, and your work directly contributes to the future of defence technology.
What we\’re looking for from you
Degree qualified in Aerospace/Aeronautical Engineering, Mechanical engineering, General engineering, Maths, Physics, Chemistry, Materials Sciences or other related subject to a minimum of 2:2.
Our company
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, including Gender Equality, Pride, Menopause Matters, Parents and Carers, Armed Forces, Ethnic Diversity, Neurodiversity, Disability 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.
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Propulsion Engineer - Graduate Programme 2026 employer: MBDA UK Ltd
Contact Detail:
MBDA UK Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Propulsion Engineer - Graduate Programme 2026
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees on LinkedIn, especially those in the propulsion engineering field. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your technical knowledge and understanding MBDA's projects. Show them you're not just passionate but also knowledgeable about missile propulsion and defence technology.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your soft skills! Communication and teamwork are key in engineering roles. Consider mock interviews with friends or mentors to refine how you present your experiences and ideas.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the MBDA team!
We think you need these skills to ace Propulsion Engineer - Graduate Programme 2026
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Propulsion Engineer role. Highlight relevant projects, skills, and experiences that align with missile propulsion and aerospace engineering. We want to see how you can contribute to our innovative team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your passion for aerospace engineering and why you're excited about the opportunity at MBDA. Let us know what makes you a great fit for our graduate programme.
Showcase Your Technical Skills: Don’t forget to showcase your technical skills in your application. Mention any experience with modelling tools or projects related to propulsion systems. We love seeing candidates who are ready to tackle real-world engineering challenges!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for the best chance of success. It’s straightforward and ensures your application gets to the right people. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our company!
How to prepare for a job interview at MBDA UK Ltd
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your aerospace and propulsion engineering knowledge. Familiarise yourself with the latest advancements in missile propulsion technology, as well as the specific projects MBDA is involved in. This will show your genuine interest and help you answer technical questions confidently.
✨Showcase Your Team Spirit
Since collaboration is key at MBDA, be prepared to discuss your experiences working in teams. Think of examples where you contributed to a group project or overcame challenges together. Highlighting your ability to work well with others will resonate with the interviewers.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the graduate programme and the projects you'll be involved in. Inquire about the mentoring process or how the company supports career progression. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if MBDA is the right fit for you.
✨Be Yourself
While it's important to be professional, don't forget to let your personality shine through. MBDA values diversity and individuality, so be authentic in your responses. Share your passion for engineering and defence technology, and let them see the real you!