At QinetiQ, we’re not just imagining tomorrow, we are creating it. From cutting‑edge defence technology to ground‑breaking innovations, our mission is to empower and protect lives. Join us as a Principal Scientist at our Malvern site, where you will have the opportunity to work with advanced RF sensing and Electronic Warfare technologies alongside some of the brightest minds in the industry.
The Role
As a Principal Scientist, you will provide technical leadership in radar and electronic warfare, helping to shape the development of next‑generation sensing systems that operate in complex and contested electromagnetic environments.
Day‑to‑day, you’ll lead and deliver complex research and development projects, guide multi‑disciplinary teams, work closely with defence customers, and drive innovation in RF sensing, signal processing and system performance.
Responsibilities
* Providing technical leadership across radar and electronic warfare projects
* Leading research, development and delivery of advanced RF sensing and signal processing solutions
* Working directly with customers to understand requirements and deliver high‑impact outcomes
* Coaching and mentoring engineers and scientists within the team
* Driving innovation and maintaining high technical standards
* Supporting business development and future capability growth
Essential Experience
* Deep expertise in radar, electronic warfare or RF sensing systems
* Strong background in signal processing and electronic surveillance techniques
* Experience developing and analysing algorithms using MATLAB and/or Python
* Knowledge of trials, data analysis and system performance assessment
* Ability to lead complex technical projects and multi‑disciplinary teams
* Experience working with defence customers or in regulated, mission‑critical environments
Essential Qualifications
* Degree in Science or Engineering or a nationally recognised equivalent
* Significant post‑graduate industry or research experience (typically 9–12+ years)
We value difference and we don’t have a fixed idea when it comes to background or education, provided you can show the required level of experience and willingness to learn then we would like to hear from you.
This role is 37 hours per week based at Malvern. Hybrid working patterns are available. Travel to other QinetiQ and customer sites will be expected.
Malvern
The Malvern facility is noted for its work in electronic warfare, surveillance and complex system integration, contributing significantly to the UK’s defence capabilities. Developing technologies for military and civilian applications, including sensors, communications and cyber security.
Why Join QinetiQ?
As we continue to grow into new markets around the world, there’s never been a more exciting time to join QinetiQ. The formula for success is our appetite for innovation and having the courage to take on a wide variety of complex challenges.
As a QinetiQ employee, you’ll experience a unique working environment where teams from different backgrounds, disciplines and experiences enjoy collaborating widely and openly as we undertake this exciting and rewarding journey. Through effective teamwork, and pulling together, you’ll get to experience what happens when we all share different perspectives, blend disciplines, and link technologies; constantly discovering new ways of solving complex problems in a diverse and inclusive environment where you can be authentic, feel valued and realise your full potential. Visit our website to read more about our diverse and inclusive workplace culture .www.qinetiq.com/en/careers/life-at-qinetiq
Benefits
* Matched contribution pension scheme, with life assurance
* Generous holiday allowance, with the option to purchase additional days
* Options to join Health Cash Plan, Private Medical Insurance and Dental Insurance
* Employee discount portal: Personal Accident Insurance, Travel Insurance, Restaurants, Cinema Tickets and much more
* We are proud to support the Armed Forces community by honouring the Armed Forces Covenant and maintaining our Gold Award standard in the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme
* Volunteering Opportunities - helping charities and local community
Recruitment Process
We want to make sure that our recruitment process is as inclusive as possible and we aspire to bring out the best in our candidates by creating an environment where everyone feels valued, heard and supported. If you have a disability or health condition that may affect your performance in certain assessment types, please speak to your Recruiter about potential reasonable adjustments.
Many roles in QinetiQ are subject to national security vetting being completed, applicants who already hold the appropriate level of vetting may be able to transfer it upon appointment. A number of roles are also subject to additional restrictions, which means factors such as nationality or previous nationalities may affect the roles that you can be employed in.
Please note that all applicants for this role must be eligible for SC clearance, as a minimum.
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