Network Engineer (Integration and Trials)

Join MBDA and become a trusted network specialist directly supporting the proving of advanced missile systems. We are looking for someone who thrives on real-world problem solving, enjoys working in multi-disciplinary teams and can keep complex trials environments connected, resilient and ready.

Role Title: Networking and IT Engineer – Proving and Integration (Missiles)

Salary: Up to £52,500 depending on experience

Dynamic (hybrid) working: 3-4 days per week on-site due to workload classification and access to equipment and facilities. There will be opportunities for working from home as the workload allows.

Security Clearance: British Citizen only.

What we can offer you:

• Company bonus: Up to £2,500 (based on company performance and will vary year to year)
• Pension: maximum total (employer and employee) contribution of up to 14%
• Overtime: opportunity for paid overtime
• Flexi Leave: Up to 15 additional days
• 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…
• Healthcare Cash Plan: The Healthcare Cash Plan benefit provides the option to claim cash back on everyday healthcare expenses such as optical, dental, health and wellbeing and more.

The opportunity:

We are looking for an experienced network engineer to join the Integration and Missile Validation (IMV) engineering function as a practical, trusted networking specialist who keeps high‑integrity systems connected, tested and ready for real‑world performance. Working at the heart of a multi‑disciplinary team, you’ll design, build and validate secure closed networks and trials support equipment that enable the proving of complex missile systems in demanding product testing/trials environments.

You will architect and configure end‑to‑end connectivity, operate secure trials networks, and ensure every subsystem meets stringent performance, interoperability and security requirements. From routing and switching to diagnostics and compliance, you’ll be the steady technical presence that our proving and integration engineers rely on — calm under pressure, proactive in approach, and always ready to provide hands-on support to resolve complex integration issues.

Key Responsibilities include:

• Design secure closed networks that underpin our product system proving, validation and integration
• Build and configure trials IT equipment across multiple OS and hardware platforms
• Lead network architecture for proving systems across multi-domain environments
• Diagnose and resolve connectivity issues across integrated hardware, software and simulation rigs
• Implement monitoring and fault-recovery strategies for high-assurance test environments
• Ensure compliance with IM, security and accreditation standards
• Drive continuous improvement in documentation, processes and proving methodologies
• Mentor colleagues and help grow capability across the function

We expect this to be achieved by:

• Becoming the go-to technical voice for networking and trials IT in the IMV function, providing advice and guidance being trusted by engineering colleagues, technical expert peers and senior management teams
• Showing proactive ownership. Anticipating issues before they escalate and taking initiatives to address these
• Staying calm, clear and decisive when the pressure rises
• Working collaboratively across disciplines and teams
• Championing continuous improvement, smarter ways of working and constantly seeking ways to improve and advance test processes

What we're looking for from you:

We are looking for someone with the following skills, knowledge and experience

• Familiarity with modern Windows and common Linux operating systems e.g., RedHat
• Experience with computer hardware, troubleshooting and repair
• Proven experience in network engineering in defence, aerospace or other secure engineering environments
• Experience with Firewall configuration, Load balancers, Windows (Server and Desktop) and enterprise services
• Understanding and applying cyber security methodologies
• Working knowledge and understanding of network engineering principles including routing, switching, firewalls, VPNs and network segmentation principles
• Hands-on, practical experience with networking and IT fleet management for offline machines (e.g offline windows update server, PowerShell script writing, hardware investigation).
• Strong background in network security, configuration and management of classified data paths
• Knowledge of networking health monitoring
• Familiarity with defence standards, accreditation processes and system safety and security requirements
• Excellent problem solving, communication and cross-functional collaboration skills

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.