Structures 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.

We are looking for a Structures Engineer to join our Integrated Airspace Protection Systems (IAS) team in the heart of Belfast.

About Us

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.

You’ll play a key role in the hardware development of cutting‑edge weapons integration systems across the full hardware lifecycle. The role blends analytical engineering with practical design ownership, supporting a range of military products including very‑short‑range and short‑range missiles, naval, land and airborne launchers, and vehicle‑mounted stabilised sight systems.

You’ll have the opportunity to work alongside other Structures Engineers in the Aero Dynamics team, on programmes for the Hardware Work Package Manager/ Engineering Delivery Manager and with other engineering disciplines.

If you possess a passion for your career, keep up to date with the latest developments in mechanical engineering and have a goal towards attaining Chartered Engineer status we’d love to hear from you.

Main Responsibilities

• Requirements analysis and specification to defence and military standards
• Structural analysis during solution design
• Performing Finite Element Analysis (FEA) using ANSYS, CATIA V5 and CREO, including Modal analysis; Vibration analysis; Impact analysis
• Producing and holding authority over technical documentation
• Defining and supporting structural test requirements
• Contributing to hardware tasks across multiple product lines with a strong military focus

Ideal Experience & Skills

• Engineering stress/structural calculations and validation
• Knowledge of FEA and CAD
• Knowledge of ANSYS, CATIA, CREO, MATHCAD
• Knowledge or Modal, Vibration and Material selection
• Experience of working to Governing Body Specification

Qualifications

A minimum 2.1 BEng (Hons) degree or equivalent in Aeronautical or Mechanical Engineering.

Benefits

• Performance-related bonus (grade dependent)
• Car cash allowance (grade dependent)
• Half day every Friday, usually finishing around 13:00 – delete if not applicable to the BL
• 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 (grade dependent)
• 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

What can we offer you?

Future opportunities will allow you to discover other domains or sites. You will be able to evolve and grow your competencies in different areas by focussing on personal development, building your experience in another domain of Thales Group, discovering new products, new customers, a new country or go to a more complex Solution. You can choose between a technical expertise or a leadership path.
 

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!