Research and Development Graduate

In fast‑changing markets, customers worldwide rely on Thales. Thales is a business where brilliant people from all over the world come together to share ideas and inspire each other. In aerospace, transportation, defence, security and space, our architects design innovative solutions that make our tomorrow’s possible.

• Start Date: 07 September 2026
• Salary: £34,000 per annum
• Location: Belfast, United Kingdom
• Employee type: Permanent
• Working
  
  Schedule:
  
  Monday – Friday, 37 hours a week (8 hours Monday – Thursday, 5 hours Friday)

• Permanent role from day one
• Work on exciting projects within our business units
• Receive mentorship and support from our Engineering Leadership team
• Focus on Research and development with the opportunity to move between functional domains

This is an exciting engineering graduate programme designed to create the next generation of aspiring engineering experts and specialists for Thales in the UK. We are looking for people with a passion for engineering, maths, physics and/or design and development combined with an inquisitive mind and an intrinsic interest in people and success through teamwork. If you are looking for a broad learning experience, Thales offers you extensive development and challenges and will support you so that you can drive your career progression at the right rate for you.

Kick‑start your career with us and work on advanced solutions using technologies such as Java, C++, Matlab and automation Python. Collaborate with top engineers and gain experience developing the next generation of sonar applications.

This is a 3‑year programme with the option to experience varied aspects of the engineering disciplines required including Algorithms, Software Development, Integration and Trials. You will be assigned to a succession of new or existing programmes where you will work with and be supported by other engineers to design and develop engineering solutions to meet the needs of our customers. During your time on the programme you will be under the sponsorship and guidance of the Engineering Leadership team and will follow a structured and detailed learning pathway to fast‑track your development within your role.

• You must have gained or be on track to achieve a bachelor’s degree in a STEM subject in one of the following areas:
  • Computer Science (BSc)
  • Computing (BEng)
  • Computing and Data Science (BSc)
  • Software Engineering (BSc or MEng)
  • Mathematics, Applied Mathematics, Mathematics and Statistics (BSc or MSc)
  • Theoretical Physics, Physics with Astrophysics, Quantum Physics (BSc)
  • All applicable technical or related degrees will be considered
• All successful candidates must possess the permanent right to work in the UK.

• 201 hours annual leave (plus a company day and bank holidays)
• Company Pension
• Health Care Cash Plan
• Life Insurance
• Discount Portal
• Performance‑related pay uplifts
• 80 hours volunteering (first two years)

Closing date:
Our applications will close m on Monday 5 January 2026, the only time we will be accepting applications this year. Please note, we will be in contact by the end of February 2026 with details of next steps.

Due to the nature of the work that we do at Thales, all 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. For further guidance, please visit

Thales is an equal opportunities employer and diversity and inclusion are integral to the success of Thales.