Graduate Control Systems Engineer

Graduate Control Systems Engineer

At Northrop Grumman UK, you’ll be part of a team driving innovation to solve tomorrow’s challenges and shape the technology solutions of the future. We call it Defining Possible, a mindset that’s the foundation for your career development and the impact we have within the community. This is more than just a job; it’s a mission.

Are you ready to begin your engineering career by working on technology with real purpose? As a Graduate Control Systems Engineer, you will help design and develop the systems that monitor, manage, and automate critical functions across the UK’s nuclear-powered submarine fleet. Your work will contribute to the safe, secure, and reliable operation of an important UK defence capability. You will join multidisciplinary engineering teams working with PLC, SCADA, and industrial network technologies. From developing and testing control software to supporting the next generation of control systems, you will gain experience across the full engineering lifecycle and see how your work contributes to complex, long-term programmes.

Our Graduate Programme

Our structured two-year Graduate Programme is designed to help you turn academic knowledge into practical engineering experience. Starting in September 2027, the programme will give you opportunities to rotate across projects and disciplines, explore your technical interests, and build the foundations for a long-term career. You will have a dedicated mentor, buddy, project lead, and line manager, providing guidance and support throughout your development. From the beginning, you will contribute to meaningful work while learning from experienced engineers and technical specialists.

What you’ll do

• Capture, interpret, and develop customer requirements into clear engineering solutions.
• Specify, design, and test PLC and SCADA control systems.
• Develop control software using block diagrams, flowcharts, pseudocode, and other design formats.
• Validate software designs through structured analysis and testing.
• Produce accurate technical documentation in line with company and customer procedures.
• Help diagnose faults and support existing solutions at customer sites across the UK.

Along the way, you could develop experience in:

• PLC programming
• SCADA systems
• Industrial Ethernet
• Industrial control systems
• Software testing and validation
• Requirements engineering
• Systems engineering

What we’re looking for

We are looking for graduates who are curious about how technology works, enjoy solving challenging problems, and want their engineering career to make a meaningful difference.

Essential:

• An engineering degree in a relevant discipline such as Electronic, Systems, or Software Engineering (or can demonstrate equivalent knowledge and skills through work experience or other training).
• An understanding of software development lifecycles, processes, or procedures.
• Some exposure to systems engineering principles or software development methodologies.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• The ability to communicate clearly and contribute effectively within a team.

Desired:

• Familiarity with basic project management tools (e.g., Microsoft Project).
• Experience contributing to projects, whether through employment, education, volunteering, or personal projects.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to develop effective solutions.

We welcome applications from candidates who have gained relevant skills outside of traditional degree routes. If you've built your expertise through work experience, an apprenticeship, professional certifications, bootcamps, open-source contributions, or significant personal projects, then we encourage your application. If you do not meet every requirement, we still encourage you to apply. Sometimes people hesitate because they cannot tick every box. If this opportunity interests you and you believe you could grow into the role, we would like to hear from you.

Security Clearance

Due to the nature of our work, you must be a Sole UK national and able to gain and maintain UK Government Security Check clearance in line with the requirements of the role. Our recruitment team is on hand to answer your questions and guide you through the process. Contact Earlycareers@uk.ngc.com for further information.

Benefits

• Flexible working options, including hybrid arrangements and compressed fortnights (every other Friday off).
• Private healthcare, dental, life assurance, and pension.
• Flexible benefits package including critical illness cover and health cash plan.
• Holiday buy/sell scheme.
• Career development programmes.
• Annual performance incentive programme.

Why join us?

• A Mission to Believe In – Every day we contribute to building a more secure and connected world.
• A Place to Belong and Thrive – Every voice matters. Find community and belonging through our employee networks and get involved with STEM volunteering events.
• Your Career, Your Way – Discover your possible with diverse roles, mentorship, and development opportunities tailored to your ambitions.

Ready to apply?

Yes: Submit your application online.

Possibly: If you would like to learn more about the programme, the role, or the security clearance process, contact Earlycareers@uk.ngc.com.

Not this opportunity: Explore other opportunities with us. We’re growing across the UK.

Northrop Grumman is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce, and encourages individuals from all backgrounds and all abilities to apply and consider becoming a part of our diverse and inclusive workforce.