Senior Development Test Systems Engineer in Belfast

Location: Belfast, United Kingdom

Thales is a global technology leader with more than 83,000 employees on five continents. With over 7,500 people in the UK, operating across defence, space, aerospace, and digital security, we help build a future we can all trust.

Take the lead in developing cutting-edge test systems, collaborate with global experts, and drive real-world impact - all within a supportive, innovation-driven environment.

What the role has to offer:

• Lead the hands-on design and development of innovative hardware and automated software test systems that enable high-volume, cost-effective missile production.
• Collaborate closely with multidisciplinary engineering teams and engage directly with international customers and partners to deliver impactful, real-world solutions.
• Thrive in a fast-paced, supportive environment that promotes continuous improvement, quality, operational excellence, and a culture of open communication and teamwork.

Main Responsibilities:

• Drive Innovation in Test Engineering by developing future-focused test capabilities that enhance efficiency, improve productivity, and support the delivery of world-class products.
• Lead End-to-End Test Solution Development, partnering with Engineering Designers to define test strategies, create comprehensive test plans, and ensure full compliance with product test specifications.
• Design and Deliver Advanced Test Systems, including production test applications, Factory Test Equipment, hardware schematics, cable assemblies, and detailed manufacturing documentation.
• Develop Automated Test Software using LabVIEW and associated technologies to control instrumentation, communication interfaces, embedded programming, and automated production processes.
• Champion Quality and Operational Excellence by ensuring all test solutions adhere to company standards, quality processes, and continuous improvement initiatives while driving innovation across the business.
• Provide Technical Leadership and Stakeholder Engagement, supporting production teams with fault diagnosis and repair activities, while representing the business confidently with customers, suppliers, and subcontractors.

About You:

At Thales, we are committed to equal opportunities and welcome all talented individuals to consider joining our team. So even if you don't match every statement below but feel you have some of the experience, knowledge or skills needed for this role, we encourage you to apply.

Ideal Experience & Skills:

• Acquired a minimum HND qualification in Engineering, Computing, or a related technical discipline.
• Proven experience in the design, development, implementation, and support of production test equipment, delivering effective test solutions within an engineering or manufacturing environment.
• Demonstrated expertise in automated test system development, including the design and development of complex, reliable, and user-friendly LabVIEW-based test solutions.
• Demonstrated technical knowledge of test technologies, validation, and instrumentation integration, including Boundary Scan (XJTAG), design verification, and the automation and control of PXI, GPIB, and USB-based test equipment.
• Demonstrated capability in communications and system integration, with knowledge of protocols such as RS232, RS422, MIL-STD-1553, CANBus, and Ethernet.
• Proven problem-solving capability and demonstrated stakeholder management skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across multidisciplinary teams, influence key stakeholders, and drive continuous improvement initiatives.

Desirable:

• Proven expertise in the design, development, and implementation of automated production test equipment, combining advanced LabVIEW capability (CLD certified), TestStand, custom test sequencers, and digital/analogue electronics to deliver robust, efficient, and reliable test solutions.
• Demonstrated technical excellence across the full product lifecycle, including fault diagnosis to component level, electro-mechanical and electro-optical system design, and the application of PLM, requirements management, SVN, and Git tools to maintain traceability, quality, and controlled development.
• Proven leadership, adaptability, and continuous improvement mindset, with experience leading small engineering teams, thriving in fast-paced environments, and driving innovation through the adoption of emerging technologies and engineering best practices.

Security Clearance Requirement:

This role requires Security Clearance (SC). It would be advantageous if currently held, however, if not currently held, it is a requirement that the successful applicant undergo, achieve, and maintain SC Clearance prior to commencing employment.