System Engineer, Maritime Graduate - 2026 UKD

About QinetiQ

QinetiQ is committed to creating an inclusive workplace where diversity is embraced and celebrated. Our UK Defence business leverages expertise across Air, Land, Maritime, and Weapons domains to help customers respond to evolving threats. We are seeking enthusiastic graduates to join our growing team of Systems Engineers, particularly within the Maritime domain.

The Role: Systems Engineer Maritime Graduate

As a Systems Engineer at QinetiQ, you will be instrumental in bringing together diverse technical inputs to create, lead, and deliver compelling solutions. You will provide high-quality, independent technical advice to customers, supporting major acquisition programmes and developing innovative products. We are looking for proactive, passionate individuals with a keen interest in technology who are eager to contribute to the future of defence.

Development Programme

Our updated Graduate Scheme offers a structured approach to learning and development, with pathways tailored to your growth and the business's needs. You will agree on learning goals and activities with your Functional lead, including real-world project placements and directed learning activities. We also provide further training and support a path towards Professional Registration with an Engineering Institution.

Opportunities in the Maritime Domain:

• Maritime platforms including Training, Tactics, Test and Evaluation Transformation
• Maritime Combat System Integration
• Underwater Threat Representation and Signatures
• Application of Systems Engineering principles across the engineering lifecycle
• Engagement with customers and developing new propositions
• Trials planning and conduct

Key Accountabilities:

• Support Systems Engineering projects in various domains for internal and external customers, mentored by senior engineers.
• Engage with external stakeholders to gather information and understand requirements.
• Assist in technical design under the guidance of senior Systems Engineers.
• Collaborate effectively with other project team members.
• Identify and manage potential issues, such as delivery problems or lack of input information.
• Manage project information effectively.
• Develop the ability to lead small projects.

Essential Personal Qualities and Behavioural Requirements:

• Analytical and logical thinking skills.
• Ability to work and produce consistent results.
• Strong questioning, listening, influencing, and interpersonal skills.
• Well-developed oral, written communication, and presentation skills.
• Adaptability and flexibility in working style.

Experience and Qualifications:

• Degree (achieved or predicted 2:1 or equivalent) in a relevant engineering or technical discipline (e.g., Aerospace, Mechanical, Electronic, Systems Engineering, Computer Science, Physics), or equivalent experience.
• A conscientious, logical, and enquiring mindset.
• Willingness to work on UK military projects.
• Willingness to undertake business travel and potential for temporary deployment.
• Excellent report writing skills are highly desirable.
• Existing professional qualifications or aspiration to work towards one.

Location and Role Type:

• Location: Portsmouth
• Type: Fulltime, Permanent

Security Requirements:

Please note that all applicants for this role must be eligible for SC clearance, as a minimum. Many of our roles are subject to national security vetting, and successful applicants may be able to transfer existing vetting. Nationality, previous nationalities, and country of birth may impact role eligibility due to restrictions on access to information. Early Careers roles do not meet the legal threshold for candidates resident in the UK on student visas under current immigration rules.

Benefits:

QinetiQ offers a comprehensive benefits package including on-demand learning, coaching and mentoring, 25 days annual holiday, matched contribution pension scheme, flexible benefits, employee discounts, and an Employee Assistance Programme.