Job Description:
Systems Engineer – Advanced Targeting - All Levels
Your impact
Are you an experienced Systems Engineer ready to take on some of the most advanced electro-optic and infrared (EO/IR) systems in the world? At Leonardo, we are looking for professionals who can apply their expertise to deliver cutting-edge EO/IR capabilities across a diverse range of projects, from lasers and imaging to detection, tracking, control systems, and navigation.
Your work could contribute to:
1. Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) – Future Generation Electro-Optical Targeting products
2. Laser Direct Energy Weapons Systems like Dragonfire
3. Infra-Red Counter Measures (IRCM) systems
4. Laser target designators and ranging systems
We are recruiting for a range of Project Engineering Leads (PEL). Based on your skills and experience, we’ll match you to the most impactful projects where you can thrive and grow.
What you will do as an EO/IR Systems Engineer
You will work on EO/IR systems at various stages of their lifecycle, contributing to one or more of the following areas:
5. Requirements capture, definition, development, modelling, manufacture, test, and verification of EO/IR technologies.
6. Applying and improving systems engineering processes across the full lifecycle.
7. Collaborating with integrated project teams to design, build, and deliver EO/IR equipment.
8. Driving continual learning and improvement across the UK engineering community, acting as a change agent for systems engineering.
What you’ll bring
We are seeking engineers with experience in applying systems engineering within an EO/IR environment, with a proven track record in at least some of these essential skillsets:
9. Systems Engineering: Requirements capture and management, System definition and development, Modelling and analysis, Verification and validation, Full engineering lifecycle application
10. Domain specialisms: EO/IR systems and technologies, Control systems and navigation, Imaging, detection, and tracking
11. Technical expertise with tools and methods: Systems engineering methods, tools, and processes, Strong numerical, analytical, and critical-thinking skills supporting “systems thinking”
If you have these skills and want to work on some of the most advanced EO/IR systems in the world, we want to hear from you.
Security Clearance
This role is subject to pre-employment screening in line with the UK Government’s Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS). An additional range of Personnel Security Controls referred to as National Security Vetting (NSV) may apply, which could include meeting the eligibility requirements for Security Check (SC) or Developed Vetting (DV). For more information and guidance please visit: .
Why join us
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.
12. Time to Recharge: Generous leave plus up to 12 additional flexi-days each year
13. Secure your Future: Award-winning pension scheme with up to 15% employer contribution
14. Your Wellbeing Matters: Free mental health support, financial advice, and employee-led inclusion & diversity networks
15. Rewarding Performance: Bonus scheme for employees at management level and below
16. Never Stop Learning: 4,000+ online courses via Coursera and LinkedIn Learning
17. Refer a Friend: Financial reward through our referral programme
18. Tailored Perks: Spend up to £500 annually on flexible benefits such as private healthcare, dental cover, gym memberships, and more
19. Flexible Working: Flexible hours with hybrid options; for part-time opportunities, we are open to discussion
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 UK sites. Our employees are key contributors to innovation, technology, and safety worldwide.
We are committed to creating an inclusive, accessible, and welcoming workplace. We believe diversity sparks creativity, drives innovation, and leads to better outcomes for our people and customers. If you have any accessibility requirements during the recruitment process, please let us know.
Be part of something bigger – apply now