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Engineering roles2023-11-10T17:37:40+00:00

Engineering careers at DE&S

Problem solvers. Innovative thinkers. Career returners and switchers. It takes all kinds of people to drive our engineering programmes forward. So no matter who you are or how you think, we’ll support you to be the best you can be – achieving your ambitions and reaching your full potential.

Welcome to Engineering

Cutting-edge engineering and science is a critical component in delivering modern, battle-winning technologies to all branches of the armed forces.

With around 3,400 staff, Engineering is the largest function within DE&S – and it’s one of the most fulfilling too. From managing technical risks, and engineering resources and services, to defining and assuring best practice, our engineers are exemplars both within DE&S and our industry partners and professional bodies.

Vital skills for vital work

We’re always on the look out for world-class engineers, mathematicians, scientists, quality and safety professionals and a range of supporting specialists to deliver the most advanced defence equipment in the world.

Our Engineering function enables the delivery of safe and secure equipment and support by providing specialised expertise in: electrical and electronics; environmental; product safety; quality; sensors; software, security and cyber; and systems engineering.

We offer the opportunity to work on a huge range of technical projects, from entry level apprentice and graduate positions, to some of the most challenging projects available anywhere.

Learn, grow, progress

We’re here to help you be the best you can be – whether that’s through funding for engineering qualifications and professional memberships, on-the-job learning, coaching and mentoring, or the support of a Development Officer who’s there to help you navigate your career journey. Here you’ll find a great opportunity to kick-start your career – or take it to the next level!

Technical competences

For each of the functions in DE&S there is a technical competence framework. The framework describes specific professional skills or knowledge standards that are required within the function. Click here to open the technical competence framework for the Engineering function (as a PDF). You’ll be assessed on two technical competences at interview, which will be stated in the job advert – so it’s well worth having a read before you apply!

STEM returners: Relaunch your engineering career with us

At DE&S, we know it takes a breadth of experience to enrich our culture and drive innovation. And we understand the challenges engineers can face when returning to work after a career break. That’s why we encourage engineering returners to relaunch their careers with us – with no need to explain any breaks in your CV, and mentors and support to help you bridge any knowledge gaps. When you join our diverse team, we’ll be here to support you every step of the way.

We’re proud to run a STEM Returners Programme to support your return to work – and recommend exploring our current vacancies too.

Seen a great role but not sure if you’re ready? Get in touch with the recruiter on the job advert and they’ll be happy to discuss your application with you.

Military leaver? 

For many service leavers, DE&S is a natural fit, and we’ve been supporting veterans into rewarding roles for decades. Discover secure and meaningful civilian employment as part of our team – all while helping to support those still serving. Discover more about our career options for military leavers.

Spotlight on: A rewarding career in safety and environmental protection

Join us one of our safety and environmental protection teams and influence safety and environmental decisions across the full life-cycle, from the design and build of equipment, to the through-life support and safe decommissioning of the equipment used on the front line. Find out more about a career in safety and environmental protection.

Latest Engineering vacancies

Can’t find a Engineering job for you today? Visit our Vacancies page and register for job alerts.

Vacancies

Making real-world impact

A Combat Systems Engineer in our Ships domain, Katie helped deliver critical engineering support ahead of the Carrier Strike Group 21 voyage.

Read Katie’s interview
Portrait of Aditee Desurkar

Inspiring future engineers

A STEM ambassador and DE&S Engineering network co-chair, Engineering Manager Aditee is inspiring the next generation of women engineers.

Read Aditee’s interview
Naval architect James, wearing glasses and a green and blue checked shirt

Supporting UK Defence

From launching new frigates to uplifting radar surveillance and decoy systems, Naval Architect James is helping equip the armed forces with the edge to protect our nation.

Read James’ interview

What our people say

Don’t just take our word for it, take a look at what our staff say about us.

89%

I’m interested in my work.

89%

I’m trusted to carry out my job effectively.

87%

I’m treated with respect by the people I work with.

A career in engineering

“With the chance to work on Lightning, Apache and remotely piloted aircraft, it’s been great to see how the kit I’ve worked on can make a real difference for the front line.”

– Janet, Chief Engineer, Air

Turn your job into a career with DE&S. Find your place in our team today.

Vacancies
Meet Janet

“With the chance to work on Lightning, Apache and remotely piloted aircraft, it’s been great to see how the kit I’ve worked on can make a real difference for the front line.”

– Janet, Chief Engineer, Air

Turn your job into a career with DE&S. Find your place in our team today.

Vacancies
Meet Janet

Where else could you fit in?

Part of the Ministry of Defence, DE&S is made up of eight functions, each supporting its own vital strand of the organisation. Our functions offer professional development and flexibility to our people – and assurance to our customers that we have the scale and expertise to deliver on any project.

See where you fit in and join a world-class team today.

More about Defence Equipment & Support

A helicopter lands and kicks up a huge cloud of dust

Who we are

Part of the Ministry of Defence, we’re a mix of 12,500 talented civil servants and military personnel located across the UK and abroad.

Learn more
A grey fighter jet takes off from a runway

What we do

Delivering a programme of work of over £13bn annually, we ensure the UK Armed Forces have all the equipment and support they need for their operations.

Learn more
Three Civil Servants speak outside DE&S offices

Work for us

Join us in specialisms from engineering to project management to commercial – take your first step to a more rewarding career with DE&S.

Learn more
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