Principal Test Development Engineer at MBDA – jobs in UK

MBDA is a leading defence organisation specialising in the design and development of missile systems and related technologies. Its engineering teams work across electronic, mechanical, software, and systems engineering to deliver advanced products and technology for the Armed Forces.

At MBDA, engineers contribute to challenging projects involving design, integration, testing, and validation, helping the organisation deliver innovative defence capabilities.

Role Overview

As a Principal Test Development Engineer at MBDA, the successful candidate will contribute to the design, integration, and validation of test-system hardware solutions as part of the Test Equipment Design Team.

The role will involve defining test approaches, improving test and diagnostic processes, supporting design reviews, and responding to manufacturing queries. The successful candidate may also lead packages of work, manage deliveries, and assign tasks to senior design engineers.

This is a full-time opportunity based in Stevenage, Bristol, or Bolton, with dynamic hybrid working available where project requirements allow. Engineers based in Bristol or Bolton may be required to travel to Stevenage approximately once a month.

Key Responsibilities as Principal Test Development Engineer

• Define and specify test approaches for test equipment and hardware solutions
• Identify opportunities to improve testing and diagnostic processes
• Contribute to the design, integration, and validation of test-system hardware
• Support design reviews throughout the development lifecycle
• Respond to manufacturing queries and provide technical guidance
• Lead packages of work and manage project deliveries
• Assign and coordinate work for senior design engineers where required
• Support the Technical Lead or Equipment Project Manager
• Develop test equipment technical design solutions
• Advise on test equipment requirements and system architecture where appropriate
• Support the delivery of test systems that meet defined technical and system requirements
• Work collaboratively within an international engineering environment
• Contribute technical expertise to the successful delivery of MBDA products

Working Pattern & Pay

• Salary: Circa £55,000, depending on experience
• Contract: Full time
• Locations: Stevenage, Bristol, or Bolton
• Working pattern: Dynamic hybrid working where project requirements allow
• Travel: Bristol and Bolton-based engineers are expected to travel to Stevenage approximately once a month
• Relocation: Relocation support may be available
• Security: Successful candidates must undergo the required security checks
• Job reference: R29383

Start a Career With MBDA

A career with MBDA provides the opportunity to work on technically challenging defence engineering projects while developing specialist expertise in test equipment, hardware design, integration, and validation.

The Principal Test Development Engineer will contribute to important engineering programmes while working alongside experienced technical professionals in an international environment. MBDA also supports employee development through dedicated learning resources, mentoring, training, and flexible working arrangements.

Apply Now to become a Principal Test Development Engineer with MBDA and contribute to the development, integration, and validation of advanced test equipment solutions.