Sponsored Editorial

BAE Systems is committed to cultivating a culture where people can reach their full potential and see themselves reflected at all levels of the organisation.

The company’s Rochester site in Kent employs more than 1,600 people, and is growing for the future. Its talented workforce are at the forefront of exciting technology, such as augmented reality displays for pilots, active control sticks, and flight control computers.

Working at BAE Systems brings great opportunities, providing a platform for everyone to have a fulfilling career. Whether you’re entering the workplace for the first time, returning to work after a break, or taking the next step in your career; there is something for you.

Nikita, whose work experience at BAE Systems in Rochester led to a job. Since then, her career has gone from strength-to-strength.

“I got my first job at BAE Systems after completing work experience,” she said.

“I thought it would be great for my CV and I didn’t expect to be offered a job at the end of it. My placement was critical for my career, and my quality-of-life.”

“At the time, I was living in supported housing and things were quite up in the air. Now I live in my own flat, and I feel really settled. I’ve gone from strength to strength, and I was recently promoted. In my new role I get to see all the different products and build stages, and meet lots of people.”

“My advice to anyone considering a tech career at BAE Systems is to just get stuck in. You’ll be taught everything you need to know and you’ll learn so much. After four years I still love working here and I’ve got a really nice work-life balance.”

Aga is a Graduate Qualification Engineer at BAE Systems in Rochester. She joined the company’s graduate scheme last year.

Speaking about her experience, Aga said, “My passion for avionics and aircraft modelling as a teenager led me to pursue a career in the aerospace industry. I did a work placement at BAE Systems while I was at University. I’m based at our on-site Faraday Test Centre, where we carry out testing for our customer’s flight equipment.”

“We have some really cool environmental tests.For example, our centrifuge tests acceleration up to 30g, which is really impressive, considering that most fighter jets don’t pull more than 9g. We also do electromagnetic compatibility testing. It can’t be seen with the naked eye, but you can read how the electromagnetic field is interacting with the equipment.”

She continued: “I love coming to work every day. It’s really hands-on and no two days are the same, and I get the satisfaction of knowing that the work I do enables our customers to complete their missions safely.”

“Above the day job, I work with two of my peers co-leading the Women in Rochester in Engineering group (WiRE). We have built a community that supports and promotes women in Engineering, with all colleagues free to join as members and allies.”

“Allies play an important role, not just in providing support for women as a minority, but normalising women in engineering. We don’t want to further isolate women in engineering, by making WiRE exclusive, so male and non-binary allies are crucial for this.”

“WiRE created a platform for female engineers to have their voices amplified, but this cannot be achieved without the support of all in engineering.”

“As well as having meaningful conversations, we organise relaxed social events, and make sure that new starters feel welcome.”

Careers at BAE Systems

Whatever your talents, goals and ambitions, you’ll find a distinctive place to thrive at BAE Systems.

Find your next role at the BAE Systems website.