Computer Vision and Artificial Intelligence Engineer - Summer Placement 2026

Job Description

Computer Vision and Artificial Intelligence Engineer - Summer Placement 2026

As a Computer Vision and Artificial Intelligence Engineer within the Image Processing UK department, you will play a critical role in the development of MBDA products and technologies. You will be an important member of a department that produces world-leading algorithms that use imaging sensors to provide situational awareness, and guide weapons to their target with maximum precision. We have a detailed understanding of the interaction between missile subsystems and have a direct influence on meaningful design decisions.

Salary: £23,495 pro-rated

Dynamic (Hybrid) Working: 4-5 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 FOR THIS ROLE IS MIDNIGHT ON 5TH JANUARY 2026 (SUBJECT TO APPLICATION VOLUMES)

What we can offer you

• 10 week placement: starting June 2026, that allows you to apply your university learning to real-world projects and technologies

• Pension: maximum total (employer and employee) contribution of up to 14%

• Overtime: opportunity for paid overtime

• Annual Leave: 5 days

• Facilities: fantastic site facilities including subsidised meals, free car parking and much more…

The opportunity

Image Processing UK is an innovative, cohesive department where the contributions of each individual have real value. As part of our team you will benefit from an excellent working culture built on individual empowerment and mutual support.

You will be a key team member at an exciting time of growth and opportunity, and have the chance to make a difference from day one. Every day you will work in a supported and motivated team to research and solve problems in an exciting and cutting-edge field.

As part of your summer placement, you will have the opportunity to own and guide your own research project, and have exposure to many different projects, in different areas within the department. This means that the learning opportunities are huge, and by the end of the placement you will have a broad-range of hugely applicable experience. You will have the opportunity to shape your own work, and future departmental research directions. Your day-to-day work will involve:

• Utilising Image Processing, Computer Vision, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Computational Imaging techniques, to conduct research studies into cutting-edge technological innovations for future products. Examples of applications you might work on include classification, detection, tracking, and pose estimation.

• Developing algorithms as part of a wider product programme; working in collaboration with expert engineers and other graduates from a broad range of fields, and gaining an in-depth knowledge of the weapon’s design and functionality.

Within these tasks, you will have the opportunity to develop skills with the following tools and platforms:

• Matlab and Simulink

• Python

• Deep Learning libraries (e.g. Pytorch, scikit-learn, ONNX)

• C/C++

• Hardware development boards (e.g. NVIDIA Jetson products)

Alongside involvement with departmental activities, you will be part of a wider cohort of summer placements and graduates on the Early Careers Programme; benefits from this include receiving ongoing support in the development of your professional career as well as opportunities for involvement in charity and STEM outreach schemes. All MBDA employees can take advantage of free language training, as well as a wide range of other benefits including retail discounts and share purchase schemes.

What we're looking for from you

Working towards a degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics, Physics or related STEM discipline.

Our company: Peace is not a given, Freedom is not a given, Sovereignty is not a given

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 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.