Matchtech
Trainee Systems Engineer - PhD Graduates
How your CV stacks up
Upload your CV to see how well it fits this job role
?%
Systems Engineering LEAP Programme
About the Role
Do you meet these key criteria?
- PhD in a STEM subject (or equivalent research experience in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Maths)?
- Passionate about technical details and new learning?
- Energised by collaboration and innovation?
- Ready to transition from Academia to Engineering?
If you answered yes, the Systems Engineering LEAP Programme is designed for you!
What is the Systems Engineering LEAP Programme?
A fully paid 18-month development journey tailored for high-potential individuals with transferable skills, launching careers in Systems Engineering with a leading UK Defence company.
What’s included?
- A structured and applied training and development programme.
- Employment with a Defence manufacturer on cutting-edge programmes.
- Mentoring and a supportive peer-to-peer learning community.
- Pathway to permanent employment.
The Systems Engineering LEAP Programme: Your Role
As a Systems Engineer, you’ll act as a bridge between theoretical concepts and practical implementation, integrating engineering and technology disciplines into complex systems.
Reasons to use Rodeo
Start with a chat, not a search bar
Grad scheme, placement, apprenticeship? Not sure what you want yet — that's fine. Your agent talks it through with you and turns "I have no idea" into a shortlist.
It searches the market for you
Every day your agent scans the market matching roles against what actually matters to you, not just keywords on a CV.
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.
Key Responsibilities
Your work will span critical phases, including:
- Conducting early-stage research.
- Engaging with stakeholders and translating their needs into specifications.
- Designing system architectures.
- Analysing design validity.
- Supporting integration, building, and testing.
- Writing and executing test plans.
- Assisting with installation and trials.
How You’ll Thrive
Due to its multi-disciplinary nature, Systems Engineering requires diverse skills that we’ll build on while you develop. As an ideal candidate, you’ll:
- Bridge theoretical knowledge with applied systems design.
- Work in collaborative, cross-functional teams.
- Contribute from the start of concept development to delivered solution.
What We Need From You
Experience & Qualifications
- PhD, EngD (Engineering Doctorate), or equivalent advanced research within a STEM field.
- Strong technical foundation with willingness to develop expertise further through hands-on training.
Get help with your application
Your very own career expert that helps elevate your application to the next level.
Note: Deep prior knowledge of specific technologies aren’t required—we value adaptable learners.
Personal Attributes & Attributes
We prioritise individuals who embody these key values:
- Committed and proactive: Willing to engage actively in your own development and transition from academia to industry.
- Curious: A natural ability to question and explore the ‘why’ behind systems.
- Open-minded: Ability to work effectively with diverse teams and integrate different perspectives.
- Analytical and methodical: Strong problem-solving skills to deliver scalable, user-centric solutions.
Security Requirement
- Successfully undergo background checks (part of eligibility to hold UK security clearances and access ITAR-sensitive materials).
Ready to Begin?
[Apply now] to:
- Learn more about the programme.
- Start your exciting new career in Systems Engineering!
“It took my CV and asked me questions relevant to understanding what kind of jobs to suggest for me. Suggestions were almost perfect. Jobs were exactly what I’ve been looking for.”
Jessica, London
Skills