Thales
Research and Development Engineer - CEMA
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Research and Development Engineer - CEMA
Research and Development Engineer – CEMA
Location
Reading, United Kingdom
Date
02/07/2026
Req No
R0325186
Contract Type
Permanent
About Thales
Thales is a global technology leader with over 83,000 employees spanning five continents. With 7,500+ staff across the UK, we operate in defence, space, aerospace, and digital security. Our mission is to build a future we can trust by delivering cutting-edge technology for security, stability, and social value to the UK.
About the Role
Join Thales Research & Technology (TRT), a dynamic hub of innovation, where you’ll contribute to groundbreaking research, develope rapid proof-of-concept (PoC) demonstrators, and shape the future of defence, security, and security solutions. As an R&D Engineer, you’ll collaborate in a multidisciplinary team, unleashing creativity to solve complex engineering challenges and turn research into transformative prototypes.
Thales Research & Technology drives innovation, bridging research with real-world applications. Here, you’ll explore cutting-edge technologies, work on diverse projects, and leverage hands-on skills in software development, prototyping, and system integration. Whether assessing new electronic architectures, enhancing IoT/cyber-physical systems, or easing wear/tear on complex systems, your work will have a tangible impact on tomorrow’s capabilities.
Main Responsibilities
- Develop rapid PoC demonstrators to assess new technologies and concepts.
- Support technical experimentation, trials, and demonstrations for validating innovative approaches.
- Conduct feasibility studies through analysis, rapid prototyping, and experimental evaluation.
- Investigate emerging technologies, proposing and implementing solutions to align with future Thales capabilities.
- Collaborate across multidisciplinary teams, taking ownership of research tasks and adapting to evolving challenges.
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Ideal Experience & Skills
Technical Expertise
- Strong software development skills, with proficiency in Python and C, plus knowledge of C++, C#, or Rust.
- Experience in embedded software development, including:
- Configuring/developing software for embedded platforms (e.g., Raspberry Pi, Arduino, BeagleBone, STM32).
- Familiarity with RTOS, device drivers, and peripherals.
- Practical skills in rapid prototyping, such as:
- Hardware integration, debugging, fault-finding, soldering, or 3D printing.
- Exposure to RF technologies, Software-Defined Radio (SDR), or RF measurement techniques.
Soft Skills
- A creative, innovative mindset with the ability to tackle complex technical challenges.
- Strong ability to communicate ideas and translate theory into practical solutions.
Benefits
- Performance-related bonus (dependent on grade).
- Car cash allowance (dependent on grade).
- Poor door policy: Half-day every Friday, finishing at 1:00 PM.
- 28 days annual leave (plus bank holidays), with options to buy up to 40 extra hours/year (pro rata).
- 24 hours paid volunteering leave.
- Private healthcare (dependent on grade).
- Pension scheme.
- Life cover.
- 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme and wellness app access.
- Employee discount schemes for major retail brands.
- Gym membership discounts.
Security Clearance Requirement (UK Eyes Only)
This role falls under strict security vetting requirements:
- You must be a UK National.
- Successful candidates must obtain Security Clearance (SC) without caveats. Current clearance is a strong advantage.
- Without prior clearance, the role requires applicants to undergo, achieve, and maintain SC prior to employment. In exceptional cases, dual nationals from non-ITAR countries may be considered (subject to MOD approval).
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Eligibility Criteria for SC
- Typically, 5 years’ UK residency.
- In certain cases, a minimum of 3 years residency in the UK over the last 5 years may be permissible, with additional overseas checks.
For further details, review the UK Security Vetting Guidance.
Thales Commitment
At Thales, we uphold equal opportunities, ensuring fair pay and conditions for all. Benefits extend beyond standard packages—including medical insurance, leave buy/sell arrangements, cycle-to-work schemes, employer discounts, and more. Whether contributing to něžicroprocessors, experimenting with new materials, or advancing electronic warfare, your contribution matters.
We are proud to foster a workplace where diversity and inclusion thrive, ensuring each individual feels valued for their unique strengths. Explore our employee networks, wellbeing policies, and inclusive initiatives here.
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