Software Engineer - Graduate Programme 2026

Mbda Systems; Bristol; Hybrid; GBP 31,000 - 37,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading defense organization in Bristol is seeking a Graduate Software Engineer for a 2-year program starting in September 2026. Responsibilities include software development for weapon systems using languages such as C, C++, C#, and Java. The role offers a starting salary of £31,500 plus a £3,000 joining bonus, and a dynamic hybrid working environment. Ideal candidates have a relevant degree and strong analytical skills.

Benefits

Salary reviews throughout the Programme

Bonus up to £2,500

Pension contribution up to 14%

Opportunity for paid overtime

25 days annual leave plus extra holiday purchase option

Healthcare Cash Plan

Excellent career progression opportunities

Subsidised meals and free car parking

Qualifications

• Degree qualified in a relevant STEM discipline to a minimum 2:2
• Strong analytical skills and a passion for learning

Responsibilities

• Work closely with teams across various development stages
• Ensure the robustness of project deliverables
• Create and maintain technical documentation
• Gain exposure to all aspects of the software development lifecycle

Skills

C

C++

C#

Java

Analytical skills

Passion for learning

Education

Degree in Computing, Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics, or Physics

Job description

Software Engineer - Graduate Programme 2026

Join the Software team at MBDA (Bristol) to deliver software for the next generation of weapons in an ever‑evolving environment that supports those on the battlefield. This role offers a 2‑year Graduate Programme starting September 2026 that combines technical training, challenging placements and development activities, including exposure to all stages of the software development lifecycle, collaboration on the annual multi‑national Software Engineering Challenge, and occasional travel.

Salary: £31,500 starting salary plus £3,000 joining bonus.

Dynamic (Hybrid) Working: 5 days per week on‑site due to workload classification.

Security clearance: British Citizen or a Dual UK national with British citizenship. All successful candidates will undergo HMG Basic Personnel Security Standard checks (BPSS) after the offer stage.

Closing date for this role: Midnight on 19 December 2025.

What we can offer you

• 2‑year Programme: starting September 2026
• Salary reviews throughout the Programme
• Company bonus: Up to £2,500 (based on company performance and will vary year to year)
• Pension: maximum total (employer and employee) contribution of up to 14 %
• Overtime: opportunity for paid overtime
• Annual Leave: 25 days plus option to purchase extra holiday
• Flexi Leave: up to 15 additional days
• Healthcare Cash Plan: support with everyday health‑related costs – including medical, dental, optical, physio and health & wellbeing
• Excellent career progression and development opportunities
• Facilities: Fantastic site facilities including subsidised meals, free car parking and much more

Responsibilities

• Work closely with other teams across various development stages within our weapon systems, including embedded and front‑end software on platforms such as Windows and Linux using C, C++, C#, and Java.
• Ensure the functional and technical robustness of project deliverables.
• Own responsibility for the creation and maintenance of technical documentation.
• Work with other departments to gain a general overview of the business.
• Gain exposure to all aspects of a software development lifecycle and collaborate on the annual multi‑national Software Engineering Challenge.

What we’re looking for from you

Degree qualified in Computing/Computer Science, Engineering (including Aeronautical/Aerospace, Electrical/Electronic, Mechanical or Software), Mathematics, Physics or a relevant STEM discipline to a minimum 2:2. A passion for learning, strong analytical skills, and the desire to work in a dynamic defence environment are essential.

MBDA is a leading defence organisation. We are proud of the role we play in supporting the Armed Forces who protect our nations. We partner with governments to work together towards a common goal, defending our freedom.

We have employee‑led networks that promote inclusion and diversity. If you require any advice, support or adjustments during the recruitment process, we encourage you to speak with us.