Northrop Grumman
Graduate Control Systems Engineer

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UK Citizenship Required for This Position
Yes
Relocation Assistance No relocation assistance available
Travel Yes, 10% of the Time
Job Title
Graduate Control Systems Engineer
Salary
£32,500
Programme Start Date
September 2027
Citizenship Required
UK citizenship required
Security Clearance
Security Check (SC)
Travel Required
Approximately 10%
Location
New Malden
Working Arrangement
Site-based requirements apply, with flexible working options subject to the role and programme needs
Hours
Full-time
Requisition ID
R10251078
What’s your possible?
At Northrop Grumman UK, you’ll be part of a team driving innovation where it matters most – solving tomorrow’s challenges and shaping the technology solutions of the future. We call it Defining Possible. This mindset goes beyond our customer solutions; it’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.
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.
Reasons to use Rodeo
I’m in my final year doing Economics and I don’t know whether to apply for grad schemes now or do a masters first. What do you think?
Honest answer — it depends on where you want to end up. A lot of top grad schemes (Big 4, civil service, banking) don’t need a masters. Let’s look at the ones you’d be competitive for now, and we can decide if a masters actually adds anything.
Also worth knowing: most autumn 2026 applications are open now. Timing matters more than you think.
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Graduate Consultant — 2026 Scheme
Why you're a good match
StrongYour economics background and your summer at a regional bank line up with what PwC looks for on the consulting scheme. Applications close in four weeks.
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Every day your agent scans the market matching roles against what actually matters to you, not just keywords on a CV.
Why you're a good match
You’ve got the grades and the economics background, and your bank internship is exactly the experience this scheme looks for. Apply soon — deadlines close within the month.
Experience fit
Your summer at the bank plus your econometrics coursework map directly to the day-one responsibilities on this scheme — client modelling, market briefings, and deal support.
Only hits
No noise. No "maybe this fits." Just roles with a clear explanation of why they're right — and where to focus when applying.
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.


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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.
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