At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a high-performing team in developing cutting-edge Laser Directed Energy Weapon technologies.
- Company: Join MBDA, a leading defence organisation committed to innovation and diversity.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, company bonus, flexible working, and private medical insurance.
- Other info: Dynamic hybrid working model and excellent career growth opportunities await you.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in defence technology while fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment.
- Qualifications: Engineering or physics background with experience in laser systems and effective leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 64800 - 79200 £ per year.
An exciting opportunity has arisen to be part of the growth of the Laser Directed Energy Weapon (LDEW) capability within MBDA. We’re looking for a passionate leader to take the LDEW Capabilities team to the next level, building on our recent successes in delivery and winning contracts.
Salary: Circa £72,000 depending on experience.
Dynamic (hybrid) working: 3 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.
What we can offer you:
- Company Bonus: Bonus of up to 21% of base salary
- Pension: maximum total (employer and employee) contribution of up to 14%
- Flexible working: We welcome applicants who are looking for flexible working arrangements
- Enhanced parental leave: offers up to 26 weeks for maternity, adoption and shared parental leave - enhancements are available for paternity leave, neonatal leave and fertility testing and treatments
- Facilities: Fantastic site facilities including subsidised meals, free car parking and much more...
- Private Medical Insurance: Eligible employees are enrolled as standard into the company funded Private Medical Insurance benefit.
The opportunity:
The ideal candidate will be someone who has knowledge of Laser (DEW) systems and passion for both people management and leadership, as well as experience of delivering small programmes or complex work packages. There are two streams of specialist scientist/engineers in Laser DEW Capabilities - focused on the delivery of the DragonFIre MDC LDEW system into service, and driving a varied set of research and technology development contracts.
Role responsibilities:
- Managing and developing a high-performing team of specialist scientists and engineers in the Laser DEW domain
- Overseeing and ensuring successful delivery across several complex and multi-disciplinary projects, driving progress from concept through to implementation while navigating technical, operational, and international challenges
- Driving the MBDA UK Sovereign and International LDEW internal research programmes
- Strategic planning, contributing to the technical direction of LDEW technologies, setting vision and driving innovation
- Fostering Academic partnerships via the Energy Technology Hub
- Technical leadership in Industry-Government collaboration
- Representing MBDA UK at NATO working groups and NIAGs in the LDEW domain
What we are looking for from you:
- An engineering / physics background with experience of weapons systems
- In depth understanding and experience of laser (DEW) technologies and systems
- Effective people management skills and leadership behaviours
- Strong communication and influencing skills
- Proven experience of delivering small programmes or complex task packages
- Understanding of programme lifecycles and of Research & Development funding processes
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, examples include: Gender Equality, Pride, Menopause Matters, Parents and Carers, Armed Forces, Ethnic Diversity, Neurodiversity, Disability. 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.
What we do matters. Because defence matters. As a leading company in the defence industry we support our nations by delivering essential military capabilities, both for today and the future. We are proud to be an award-winning employer and are proud of the growing diversity of our workforce. Our people are the ones who drive our constant innovation and deliver against challenging targets. Whatever your background, we welcome your application to MBDA UK and look forward to speaking with you soon.
Head of Laser DEW Capabilities employer: Mbda Uk
At MBDA UK, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through our PM Academy, which offers extensive training and development opportunities, ensuring you can thrive in your role as a PM Systems & Planning Expert. With a hybrid working model, you will enjoy the flexibility of remote work while being part of a dynamic team dedicated to delivering strategic solutions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Laser DEW Capabilities
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We think you need these skills to ace Head of Laser DEW Capabilities
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Expertise:When applying for an engineering role like Head of Laser DEW Capabilities, 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.
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Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to express your passion for engineering and explain why you’re drawn to Mbda Uk 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 Mbda Uk
✨Brush Up on Core Engineering Principles
Before heading into the interview with Mbda Uk, 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 Mbda Uk 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.
