Software Engineering

Software Engineering - Level 6 Higher Degree Apprentice

MBDA is a leading defence organisation that is proud to support our Armed Forces in protecting our nations. We collaborate with governments to achieve a shared goal of defending our freedom.

Salary: £18,000 plus a £3,000 joining bonus

Closing date for this role is midnight on Monday 22nd January

What we can offer you:

• Fully funded qualification starting September 2024

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

• Fully supported learning and development programme

• Flexible working

• 25 days annual leave (plus up to 15 days flexi leave) and additional study leave for exams

Working pattern:

Where possible, we will seek to accommodate a blended approach to on-site and remote working, but this will depend on project requirements and the need for access to specific site facilities.

The Opportunity

At MBDA, we inspire team innovation to solve some of the biggest challenges. This means you'll learn from expert and experienced minds, who are always there to encourage and support you

Our collaborative approach and culture of sharing knowledge will be key to your development. We trust each other to thrive; support one another to learn, and when you join us, you'll bring a different perspective to how we see the future.

The Software teams at MBDA deliver software for the next generation of weapons in an ever evolving environment - to support those on the battlefield. Our teams provide a range of products from high integrity software running on our weapon systems, to mission planning solutions integrated into a complex battle space arena. We use numerous programming languages, software tools and software lifecycle methodologies to achieve this.

The Software team is part of a wider multinational function. This offers the team a unique opportunity to learn about different technologies and methods from other national teams

We develop and support a wide range of Software products, such as:

• Mission Planning and Control systems,

• Command, Control and Firing Units

• Real Time components such as Weapons and Missile Control Units.

• Test Systems

We are a strong cohesive team, which is interactive and passionate about software technologies and development. We have an open and encouraging approach to software development and are always seeking to improve the way we work and deliver our products. This provides a great learning environment for the apprentices on our programme.

Working closely with other teams and departments, you will cover anything from embedded systems to front end software. This software will be developed on using various platforms, including: Linux and Windows, utilising languages including C, C++ and Java.

Programme Structure

On this 4-year scheme you will study towards a BSc (Hons) Digital & Technology Solutions Software Engineer pathway at either MK:U Cranfield University (if Stevenage based), University Centre Weston (if Bristol based), Manchester Met University (if Bolton based). Study will take place face to face at university 1 day per week. When not at University you will be working across new and existing software products building your overall product knowledge. You'll have involvement in all aspects of the software development lifecycle within a supportive team.

In years 1-3, you will undertake 6 x 6 month placements providing insight into each of the departments within Software. This will give you great exposure to the development methodologies & technologies they use. In year 4, you will take on a year long placement in the department of your choosing, which will run alongside your final project.

As you progress towards your final year on the scheme, we'll work with you to understand your skills and career ambitions, so that together we can explore the technical career paths available, once your apprenticeship is complete.

Find more details about the courses here:

Stevenage -

Bristol -

Bolton -

What we're looking for from you:

This role has specific qualification and subject criteria so please make sure you carefully check your eligibility against this criteria before applying. We will not be able to consider applications from anyone that does not meet the following two requirements:

1) 120 UCAS points achieved through any of the following:

• 3 B's or ABC at A Level including Maths or Computing/Computer Science

• A T-Level in a Software Engineering/Computing field at Merit or Distinction

• BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma at a minimum grade of DDM in a Computing/IT related subject

2) 5 x GCSES including Maths & English Language & Science/Technology at Grade 9 – 4

Please note: We look at entry criteria based on your top three full A Levels or equivalent qualifications (BTEC/T Level). We do not include UCAS points gained from an Extended Project Qualification. Additionally, as an employer we set our own entry criteria based on the requirements of this role. This means that the criteria above can differ from the university/college.

Our Business

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.

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. We also welcome applicants who are looking for flexible working arrangements.

Follow us on LinkedIn (MBDA), Twitter (@MBDAcareers), Instagram (lifeatMBDA_UK) and Glassdoor or visit our MBDA Careers website for more information.

Please Note: MBDA UK Limited requires all employees to achieve the required medical and national security clearance for their role. Further restrictions and/or limitations relating to nationality and/or rights to work may also 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.

Due to the nature of our business, this particular vacancy requires the applicant as a minimum to be a British Citizen or a Dual UK national with British citizenship and capable of achieving the clearance levels mentioned above.