Principal Electro-Optic Systems Engineer

The Future Seekers Team is looking to recruit a Principal Electro-Optic Systems Engineer. The Future Seekers Team mandate is to rapidly develop and mature seeker technologies to prototype demonstrator (Technology Readiness Level 5). Technology development comprises activities including concept development; performance modelling; algorithm development; software, hardware and firmware development; systems integration and testing.

Your impact
As Electro-Optic Systems Engineer, you will lead the integration of and testing of EO seeker prototypes, working with other disciplines. A typical development could be a technology prototype demonstrator. The candidate will lead the specification, development and be involved in system testing. The candidate should be able to liaise and ideally contribute to the design with experts in the sub system areas including electronics, software, firmware, and mechanical engineering This role may also be of interest with someone from an applications background wishing to gain exposure to research and develop a more theorical career.
Day to day duties include;
Contribution to the generation of new seeker concepts
Generation of system and sub-systems requirements
Working with test engineers to characterise performance
Algorithm development and data analysis
Trials activities

Proven experience as an Electro Optics system development and integration. Ideally, you will have an engineering or science-based Honours degree or equivalent experience.
An electronic engineering background, with an understanding of passive and active EO systems. The candidate would ideally have systems engineering experience or aspire to move into a systems engineering role with mentoring.

We are not expecting you to have deep theoretical knowledge of electro-optics or infrared systems, what we are looking for are Systems Engineers with applied engineering experience that we can build upon through training, team working and mentoring.
Essential specialisms include.
Electronic engineering
Electro-optic systems

The following experience/skills are very desirable:
Working on integration programmes, having managed issues associated with cost, schedule & quality implications.
Experience of sensor performance modelling and image analysis
Software development in MATLAB or Python
Practitioner level ability using Model Driven Engineering tool e.g. Simulink, DOORS (classic)
Relevant experience in RF or EE sensor systems
Understanding of complex weapons systems employment

This is not an exhaustive list, and we are keen to hear from you even if you might not have experience in all the above. The most important skill is a good attitude and willingness to learn.

Leonardo UK operates a grade-based salary framework with broad bands. The salary range shown reflects the approved grade band for this role, or a narrower hiring range published within that band, and is benchmarked against the external market. Exceptions above the standard range are managed through governance controls to protect internal equity.

Leonardo is a global leader in Aerospace, Defence, and Security. Headquartered in Italy, we employ over 53,000 people worldwide including 8,500 across 9 sites in the UK. Our employees are not just part of a team-they are key contributors to shaping innovation, advancing technology, and enhancing global safety.
At Leonardo we are committed to building an inclusive, accessible, and welcoming workplace. We believe that a diverse workforce sparks creativity, drives innovation, and leads to better outcomes for our people and our customers. If you have any accessibility requirements to support you during the recruitment process, just let us know.

At Leonardo, our people are at the heart of everything we do. We offer a comprehensive, company-funded benefits package that supports your wellbeing, career development, and work-life balance. Whether you're looking to grow professionally, care for your health, or plan for the future, we're here to help you thrive.
Time to Recharge: Enjoy generous leave with the opportunity to accrue up to 12 additional flexi-days each year.
Secure your Future: Benefit from our award-winning pension scheme with up to 15% employer contribution.
Your Wellbeing Matters: Free access to mental health support, financial advice, and employee-led networks championing inclusion and diversity (Enable, Pride, Equalise, Armed Forces, Carers, Wellbeing and Ethnicity).
Rewarding Performance: All employees at management level and below are eligible for our bonus scheme.
Never Stop Learning: Free access to 4,000+ online courses via Coursera and LinkedIn Learning.
Refer a friend: Receive a financial reward through our referral programme.
Tailored Perks: Spend up to £500 annually on flexible benefits including private healthcare, dental, family cover, tech & lifestyle discounts, gym memberships and more.
Flexible working: Flexible hours with hybrid working options. For part time opportunities, please talk to us about what might be possible for this role.