Algorithms Engineer

Thales is a global technology leader with more than 83,000 employees on five continents. With over 7,500 people in the UK, operating across defence, space, aerospace, and digital security, we help build a future we can all trust. Thales supports the security and stability of our nation by providing extraordinary technology to our customers, as well as delivering social value to the UK with our products and services.

Algorithms Engineer
Location: based in Belfast, minimum 3 days/ week in office (hybrid), with <10% domestic travel
Other: permanent, full-time

Are you ready to join a team where your skills will drive innovation in cutting-edge defence technologies?
What the role has to offer

• Hands-on experience across a diverse range of products, from initial concept modelling and simulation to algorithm development and performance trials

• Involvement throughout the full product lifecycle, including early-stage concept validation, trials data analysis, in-service support, and continuous collaboration with end users

• Opportunity to work closely with key clients across Army, Navy, and RAF, utilising your strong communication skills and the ability to clearly explain complex technical concepts

Our Opportunity

We are excited to offer a fantastic opportunity to join our Guidance, Control, and Simulation team within the Systems Engineering group, where you will play a key role in designing and developing innovative technical solutions that meet both customer needs and business goals. We welcome applications from first appointment to mid-level mechanical or electrical engineers who are involved in creating models, as well as aerodynamicists with a focus on modelling.

This role offers the unique chance to work across our Modelling & Simulation and AI & Image Processing teams, applying your expertise to a wide range of impactful projects that advance cutting-edge technologies. There will also be opportunities to travel and support flight trial observations in Wales and Scotland, providing valuable hands-on experience.

The ideal candidate will hold a relevant degree in a numerate or engineering discipline, with additional post-graduate experience in modelling, simulation, or related fields. Strong analytical skills, a proven ability to solve complex problems, and a track record of delivering practical solutions on time and within budget are essential. We’re looking for a self-motivated individual who can work independently and confidently navigate all stages of the product lifecycle. Excellent verbal, written, and technical communication skills are vital for effective collaboration with multidisciplinary teams and stakeholders. Membership of a relevant professional body and the ability to obtain and maintain security clearance are also required. Familiarity with Matlab/Mathworks, flight dynamics, guidance algorithms, machine learning, and real-time simulation will be highly advantageous.
Building a Future, we can all trust.

Integrated Airspace Protection Systems (IAS) - our main purpose is to protect and defend. We provide rapid integrated solutions for detection, coordination, fire control, engagement and support. We cover three sectors: Surface Attack & Air Defence (UK), Air Defence (International) and Air Operations & Services as well as Space.
 

What we offer you

We offer a competitive salary and benefits package designed to support our employees’ wellbeing and professional growth, which includes:

• Half day every Friday, usually finishing around 13:00

• 28 days annual leave (plus bank holidays) with opportunity to buy up to 40 hours/year (pro rata)

• 24 hours volunteering paid for

• Private healthcare

• Pension scheme

• Life cover

• 24/7 Employee Assistance Program and access to mental wellbeing app

• Employee discount shopping schemes on major brands and retailers

• Gym membership discounts

Key Responsibilities and Tasks

In this dynamic role, you will have the opportunity to develop and refine models of critical subsystems throughout the entire product lifecycle, playing a key part in: 

• Driving innovative solution concepting

• Conducting detailed subsystem trade studies 

• Advancing guidance algorithm development and implementation 

• Designing and optimizing control actuation systems 

• Enhancing target DRI and tracking capabilities 

• Supporting launch platforms and fire control systems

• Leading Hardware In The Loop testing 

• Delivering performance prediction and trials analysis 

About You
At Thales, we are committed to equal opportunities and welcome all talented individuals to consider joining our team. So even if you don't match every statement below but feel you have some of the experience, knowledge or skills needed for this role, we encourage you to apply. It will take all of us working together to deliver solutions to the world’s most critical challenges.

• Acquired relevant degree in a numerate or engineering discipline, or proven significant commensurate experience 

• Acquired relevant post-graduate experience in one or more of the areas outlined above 

• Proven robust analytical skills and strong problem-solving capabilities 

• Demonstrated ability to analyse complex information and develop solutions that are delivered on time and within budget 

• Proven self-motivation and the capability to work independently on your own initiative 

• Demonstrated good verbal, written, and technical presentation skills 

• Membership of a relevant professional body 

• Ability to obtain and maintain relevant security clearance

Knowledge of any (or all) of the following is highly desirable: 

• Matlab / Mathworks toolset 

• Flight dynamics

• Missile guidance

• Autopilot design

• Motor control 

• Dynamic mechanical modelling 

• Image processing 

• Application of machine learning and AI 

• Machine learning and data fusion techniques 

• Algorithm implementation 

• Real-time simulation

If you’re passionate about modelling and simulation and eager to make a real impact, we encourage you to apply today!

Security Clearance Requirement:

Due to the nature of the work that we do at Thales, many of our roles are subject to security restrictions.  This role requires Security Clearance (SC). It would be advantageous if currently held, however, if not currently held, it is a requirement that the successful applicant undergo, achieve, and maintain SC Clearance prior to commencing employment. 

To be eligible for full SC, you generally need to have resided in the UK for the last 5 years.  In some circumstances, a minimum of 3 years’ residence in the UK over the last 5 years may be accepted, with additional overseas checks.

Please visit the UKSV website for further guidance: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/united-kingdom-security-vetting-clearance-levels/national-security-vetting-clearance-levels.

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At Thales, we ensure equal opportunities, pay and working conditions for all. The benefits we offer include private medical insurance, buying or selling annual leave, cycle to work schemes, employee discounts, paid volunteering day, stocks and shares, annual bonus and much more depending on the role. Read more about our benefits here.

We are committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued for who they are and the unique strengths they bring. Discover more about our programmes, employee networks, wellbeing policies, and inclusive features here.

If this role isn’t quite right for you, we encourage you to join our talent community where your details will be shared with our recruitment teams for other potential opportunities. Join the Talent Community here.

Join Thales in the UK – Innovate with us and shape the future!