- Climbing, Hiking & Travelling
- Rugby, Cycling & Gym
James Cooper
Harpenden,Hertfordshire
Summary
An ambitious Systems Engineer with three years of UK defence industry experience spanning functional integration, firing trials, and flight trials. Proven track record in delivering, validating, and testing complex systems in operational environments utilising Python, MATLAB and specialised test equipment. Relocating to New Zealand in September 2026 and seeking an engineering opportunity requiring AEWV visa sponsorship to apply advanced problem-solving, leadership capabilities, and data-driven innovation across broader commercial sectors.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Graduate Missile Systems Engineer (Two Years)
MBDA UK
Stevenage, Hertfordshire
09.2024 - Current
- Fast-tracked through four six-month rotations to currently serve as Lead Functional Integration and Firing Trials Engineer for two flagship products and a next-generation variant. Whilst conducting pre-trial tests for trial-ready confidence.
- Engineered an automated manufacturing test system using Python and MIL-STD-1553 protocols to execute Built-In Tests on completed launchers, maximising throughput and earning MBDA’s highest award of "Exceptional".
- Executed software regression testing, managed telemetry data for international customers in-field, and led complex proving investigations to ensure successful system validation.
- Integrated specialised test instrumentation onto a Navajo aircraft and acted as airborne operator to capture mission-critical flight trial data.
Undergraduate Missile Systems Engineer (10 Months)
MBDA UK
Stevenage, Hertfordshire
09.2022 - 06.2023
- Managed trundle trial independently, ensuring safety, coordinating logistics, and handling secure assets to maintain operational integrity.
- Designed and executed a data-driven testing methodology to verify system readiness using accelerometers.
- Conducted post-trial analysis and created formal technical report to effectively communicate findings and recommendations to customer.
- Received Recognition and Reward certificate for demonstrating project success and technical excellence.
Supermarket Assistant
Waitrose & Partners
St Albans, Hertfordshire
10.2017 - 12.2019
- Advised and served customers daily, ensuring positive experiences through respect and professional integrity.
- Handled inbound telephone inquiries to process specialty customer orders and resolve product complaints, enhancing customer satisfaction.
- Securely managed accurate cash, card, and digital transactions at the point of sale.
- Executed inventory movement and replenishment, maintaining optimal product availability on the shop floor.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Mechanical Engineering BEng (Hons), with a Year in Industry
Loughborough University
Loughborough01-2024
Higher National Diploma - Extended Diploma in Engineering
Oaklands College,
Welwyn Garden City, HRT01-2019
Skills
- Software Testing, Systems Integration & Data Analysis
- Technical Documentation & Test Instrumentation
- Automated Testing & Coding (Python, Matlab & Visual Studio)
- Siemens NX CAD Modelling & Engineering Drawings
- All Microsoft Programs
Certification
- Matlab certified.
- Electrostatic Discharge & ESD Protected Area certified.
- Operating lasers and Radio Frequency certified.
Interests
Timeline
Graduate Missile Systems Engineer (Two Years)
MBDA UK
09.2024 - Current
Undergraduate Missile Systems Engineer (10 Months)
MBDA UK
09.2022 - 06.2023
Supermarket Assistant
Waitrose & Partners
10.2017 - 12.2019
Bachelor of Science - Mechanical Engineering BEng (Hons), with a Year in Industry
Loughborough University
Higher National Diploma - Extended Diploma in Engineering
Oaklands College,