This programme has been designed to support people who have had a career break or are trying to transfer their skills in to a new sector or one they used to work in. We know that any gap in work experience or a move away from a sector or skill set makes it very hard to return or join through standard recruitment channels.

The roles in this programme tend to run on a 12 week work placement with a view to securing a permanent role at the end of that period. Although it’s not guaranteed, 96% of our candidates who join the programme go on to secure permanent roles with their host organisation.

As a candidate working with STEM Returners you have access to free CV writing and Interview coaching and if you are successful in securing the role you’ll get access to coaching and mentoring programme to help you thrive in the role.

If you meet the criteria for this role but are unsure if you are eligible for the programme, we encourage you to make an application.

Role and Business Summary:

The Microwave Materials business forms part of the BAE SYSTEMS Advanced Technology Solutions organisation. The role of the materials team in the Microwave Materials Group is to conduct research into novel and innovative materials that often operate in challenging environments. This is an opportunity to join a dynamic and focussed team working at the forefront of materials technology. The successful candidate will desire a role applying scientific / engineering knowledge to both create and develop solution to real-world problems.

Typical Responsibilities:

The successful returners will contribute to a variety of activities to support the research and development of new technologies to help grow the technology capabilities of the business. Likely tasks include:

• Support R&D of emerging materials technologies with different applications (e.g. Aerospace, Maritime etc).
• Preparation and maintenance of technical reports, presentations and engineering documentation
• Maintaining high standards of quality.
• Liaison with both internal and external stakeholders.
• Collaborate with the Manufacturing Engineering team to develop products for manufacture.

• Support collaboration with universities and other organisations/ institutes to identify new technologies and opportunities for growth.

Your Skills, Knowledge, and Experience Behaviour:

• Minimum HNC/HND in Materials Engineering / Applied Science (Chemistry) discipline
• Possesses good communication skills, both written and verbal.

• A Positive, can-do attitude and willingness to learn.
• Able to work both as part of a team and autonomously where required.
• Desire to work with and develop products based on elastomeric, composite and/or polymer materials.

Benefits: You’ll receive benefits including a competitive pension scheme, enhanced annual leave allowance and a Company contributed Share Incentive Plan. You’ll also have access to additional benefits such as flexible working, an employee assistance programme and Cycle2work and employee discounts.

Security Clearance requirements:

Eligibility for SC level security clearance is required – To be eligible for clearance you need to be a British National and have lived in the UK for the past 5 years with no breaks. Other Nationalities may also be considered, but 5 + years living in the UK is essential.