Job Details Guidance, Control and Navigation Engineer - Undergraduate Placement 2025 R22412

The algorithms we design in Guidance, Control and Navigation (GCN) lie at the heart of all of the highly complex MBDA missile and weapon systems. We're involved in every phase of the product's life cycle, from concept through to service.

We host 4 areas of expertise:

• Guidance - figuring out a suitable trajectory, providing an effective route to target interception and improving the probability of defeating the target


• Control - designing and tuning autopilot algorithms, for various control surfaces, to maintain stable flight dynamics and achieve the guidance demands


• Navigation - estimating the current missile state (position, velocity and attitude/orientation) using measurements from a range of on-board sensors


• Command and Control (C2) - designing weapon-system level algorithms to track and evaluate incoming threats, plan engagements, and provide additional mission context to the operator.


Receive support and mentorship to develop skills including coding and modelling, mathematics, flight dynamics and control theory, utilising tools such as MATLAB/SIMULINK daily.

Work alongside other departments to increase your knowledge on the complexities of a missile, including propulsion, aerodynamics, seekers, sensors and actuators.

Broaden your technical knowledge of the design and function of a complex weapon system. Have visibility of a wide range of work, from researching and developing futuristic technologies through to being on the design team for current high-profile projects.

Experience work within one of the many international teams in MBDA, with the GCN function in Paris and Rome! This doesn't always equate to travel but you may be offered the option where the opportunity arises.
Get involved with:

• Integrated navigation, such as 'Terrain Reference Navigation', 'GPS integration', and 'Image Based Navigation'


• Autopilot and control system design and analysis, including dual-mode control, thrust vector control, etc.


• Algorithms for mid-course guidance, terminal guidance, target tracking and selectivity


• Data fusion to combine data from multiple sensors. For example, radars, seekers, IMUs, etc.


• Implementing AI techniques including neural networks and deep learning to improve traditional GCN algorithms and solve new challenges


• Designing autonomous decision-making systems for use in complex collective missions., 10 month undergraduate placement starting September 2025


• Fantastic site facilities, including subsidised meals and free car parking


• A placement that allows you to apply your university learning to real-world engineering projects and technologies


• Flexible working


We respect new perspectives and experiences, and we value our collaborative ways of working. We are committed to growing and supporting diversity in our workforce and ensuring everyone has an equal opportunity to reach their potential. MBDA is proud of our employee-led networks including Gender Equality, Pride, Neurodiversity, Ethnic Diversity, Menopause Matters, Parents and Carers and Armed Forces.

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., You'll be able to choose between a variety of online learning platforms such as Percipio, YouLearn, Career Builder and Video Gateway. Each one is tailored to a specific type of learning. Speak to your line manager to find out more.

We encourage new learning and will provide up to £150 in financial support per year if you wish to participate in further study in your own time. You'll have access to our Learning Gateway, which hosts the formal course catalogue and is where you can select the right training for your role and future development. The catalogue displays which courses are being delivered virtually or are classroom based. If you want to lead a team, you might be interested in our management training, designed for people of all experience levels.


• Currently studying towards a degree in a Physics, Mathematical Sciences, Engineering or Computing discipline.
  
  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.