Technical Lead – Sparkworks

Company: MBDA
Apply for the Technical Lead – Sparkworks
Location: Bristol
Job Description:

Overview

In this Technical Lead role, you will steer the RF Directed Energy Weapons (DEW) development within the Sparkworks programmes team, delivering leading-edge RF DEW solutions. You will guide a multi-domain group through electromagnetic modelling, architectural assessment, testing and design trade-offs, collaborating with the Design Lead on key decisions. You’ll be accountable for technical direction, project planning and budget management in a fast-growing, high-impact defence context. This is an opportunity to shape world-class technology for the armed forces and work with cross-functional teams on challenging problems.

Pay / Benefits

  • Bonus up to 21% of base salary
  • Pension up to 14% total contributions
  • Flexible working arrangements
  • Enhanced parental leave
  • Healthcare Cash Plan
  • Subsidised meals and free car parking

Responsibilities

  • Lead the delivery of RF DEW development activities
  • Coordinate a multi-domain team for modelling, architecture assessment, testing and design activities
  • Collaborate with the Design Lead to inform design decisions and trade studies
  • Provide technical leadership and mentorship to the team
  • Manage project planning and budgetary aspects for the programme

Key requirements

  • Proven track record delivering engineering development activities
  • Proficiency in at least one: High power RF systems; electrical and electronic architecture; electromagnetic modelling; RF testing; design for EMC
  • Experience in leadership and fostering collaboration within teams
  • Degree level in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Aeronautical Engineering or related field
  • Experience in Project Management and planning of tasks/activities
  • Willingness to undertake DV clearance
  • Leadership
  • Collaboration
  • Communication
  • High power RF systems
  • Electrical and electronic architecture
  • Electromagnetic modelling

…

Posted: October 1st, 2026