Let’s find your next opportunity​

{{ job.job_posting_title }}
{{item.trim() }} {{item.trim() }} {{item.trim() }}
{{ job.job_posting_title }}

{{ job.is_cms_job ? (job.cities.split(';').length > 1 ? 'Various locations' : job.location_mappings[0]) : (job.location_mappings.length > 1 ? 'Various locations' : job.location_mappings[0]) }}

saved
viewed

Building a brilliant career in defence

I'm Angela, writing from my desk at AtkinsRéalis in Bristol, UK, where I'm proud to be a part of the Aerospace, Defence, Security & Technology team – ADS&T for short. My career began in 1997 when I graduated with a business law degree and a postgraduate diploma in Legal Practice. I got my start in the engineering industry in 1999, joining the commercial team of a major global organization, where I first worked in their energy division before stepping into their defence business. I also discovered how broad and impactful jobs in the defence sector could be. More about our teams in ADS&T.

How do you move into senior defence jobs from other sectors?

Later, I took on energy tech and systems integration roles, gaining experience in everything from project management to cybersecurity. That variety of exposure made me well-suited for my current role. I joined AtkinsRéalis in September 2024 and now work as Divisional Commercial Director for ADS&T, leading a team of commercial professionals across a wide portfolio of defence jobs and infrastructure projects. We focus on ensuring value through rigorous governance, especially for high-stakes project management jobs.

Careers in Defence: Project Management, Cybersecurity and More

What are the challenges and opportunities for women in defence careers?

My career path included steady promotions and a few lateral moves – but it wasn't without challenges. When I had my two children, laptops weren't standard, and flexible working wasn't widely embraced. I had to demonstrate that I could deliver results while working part-time. I'm glad the workplace has evolved – especially at AtkinsRéalis, where flexible working and hybrid models support working parents. It's one of the many reasons I feel confident promoting senior roles for women in defence today.

I've often been the only woman in the room—and that's exactly why I'm committed to championing women in defence careers. I set up a women's employee network at a former employer that helped push conversations forward. So, when considering new opportunities, it meant a lot to know that AtkinsRéalis has strong ERGs and genuinely supports the advancement of women in engineering and defence. Women at AtkinsRéalis.

Did you know the defence sector offers more than military roles?

One of the biggest misconceptions about defence jobs is that they all focus on combat or military operations. That couldn't be further from the truth. My career has taken me into logistics support (yes, even buying ration packs), research and development, engineering, cybersecurity jobs, and complex project delivery. The diversity of work in this sector is huge, as are the opportunities for innovation and making an impact. More about what we do.

Careers in Defence: Project Management, Cybersecurity and More

How does AtkinsRéalis support career development in defence?

Since joining, I've been trusted with building and scaling a commercial team ready for our 2030 growth ambitions. The autonomy I've had, and the investment in future-focused capability, show just how seriously AtkinsRéalis takes transformation in aerospace jobs and wider defence delivery. It's a brilliant place for anyone looking to step into leadership or take their technical skills further. How your career will thrive with us.

What advice do you have for women considering jobs in the defence sector?

Go for it. You don't need a military background to thrive here. There are so many transferable skills—especially in project management, law, digital, or engineering—that can take you into a defence career. Defence is filled with roles that matter, and there's growing support from female networks, forums, and the fantastic stories shared at events like the Women in Defence Awards. Just look at the variety of senior roles for women in defence today compared to a decade ago. Browse jobs in ADS&T.

Careers in Defence: Project Management, Cybersecurity and More

What did I learn from Women Empowering Defence?

Attending the Women Empowering Defence event was a powerful reminder that being authentic, speaking up, and challenging the status quo creates important change. I heard from women who've broken barriers, balanced families, and led missions—all while building stronger, more inclusive teams. Their stories reminded me just how far we've come, especially after my own experience of having children, and how much stronger the defence sector is when we embrace that difference. Read how everyone belongs at AtkinsRéalis.

Discover where your skills could shine with us – explore these interesting vacancies in defence.

 

Related blogs

top-50-employers-for-gender-equality

AtkinsRéalis named in The Times Top 50 Employers for Gender Equality 2026

Fourth year running, independently assessed. See what’s actually changed in how we hire, develop and support our people.

Card link for AtkinsRéalis named in The Times Top 50 Employers for Gender Equality 2026
Selfie of Mike and his partner standing in a golf course

Mike on mega projects, reinvention, and aviation at Denver International

From mega projects to airport expansion, read how AtkinsRéalis helped Mike grow beyond project delivery.

Card link for Mike on mega projects, reinvention, and aviation at Denver International

Growing through challenges: Vincent’s journey at AtkinsRéalis

Today, I hold a hybrid role at AtkinsRéalis that combines business development, project management, and technical project delivery. My career path reflects the opportunities I chose to embrace, driven by a constant desire to learn and take on new professional challenges.

Card link for Growing through challenges: Vincent’s journey at AtkinsRéalis

From intern to project manager: Felix on nine years of building an aviation career

Meet Felix, a Project Manager helping shape the future of aviation through digital innovation and major airport projects across Texas.

Card link for From intern to project manager: Felix on nine years of building an aviation career
Abhijhith in white shirt

Choosing potential over position: Abhijith's journey from Trainee to Civil Lead.

Abhijit's journey shows how choosing the right opportunity can lead to extraordinary career growth.

Card link for Choosing potential over position: Abhijith's journey from Trainee to Civil Lead.
Picture of Sam in Egypt

Sam on turning climate science into practical decisions

Meet Sam, a Principal Climate Adaptation Consultant helping clients navigate climate risk with confidence.

Card link for Sam on turning climate science into practical decisions
Picture of Manila smiling

Shaping sustainable impact at scale with Mania

Meet Mania, a sustainability leader turning bold ambitions into infrastructure that delivers lasting value for people, communities, and the environment.

Card link for Shaping sustainable impact at scale with Mania

This is what sustainability really looks like: Athena Cheng's story

An inside look at how sustainability goes beyond data. Bringing inclusion, empathy, and real community impact into infrastructure projects.

Card link for This is what sustainability really looks like: Athena Cheng's story
Vikash posing for picture

From a team of three to a thriving BIM Hub: Vikas’s growth story at AtkinsRéalis.

Growth looks different for everyone. For Vikas, it meant helping build a team while building a rewarding career.

Card link for From a team of three to a thriving BIM Hub: Vikas’s growth story at AtkinsRéalis.

Building strong teams and stronger communities: Dhara’s career at AtkinsRéalis

Today, I’m the Manager, Municipal Infrastructure, Ontario at AtkinsRéalis, where I lead a multidisciplinary team of more than 40 professionals while overseeing the delivery of complex municipal infrastructure projects. It’s a role that allows me to combine my passion for project delivery with my commitment to supporting and developing people.

Card link for Building strong teams and stronger communities: Dhara’s career at AtkinsRéalis
I'm Mei

It's a great time to build your career in Water

As Water Sector Lead at AtkinsRéalis, Mei leads projects focused on water resilience, environmental improvement and major water infrastructure programmes. Her work supports sustainable water management and long-term climate resilience.

Card link for It's a great time to build your career in Water
Award image

AtkinsRéalis named among the 50 GREAT British Employers of Veterans

Proven commitment to those who’ve served, see how AtkinsRéalis supports Armed Forces talent beyond words.

Card link for AtkinsRéalis named among the 50 GREAT British Employers of Veterans

Related jobs

Assistant Risk Manager
Project, programme & cost management Cost, Commercial & Procurement Full time
Assistant Risk Manager

Various locations

Associate Director - Risk
Project, programme & cost management Cost, Commercial & Procurement Full time
Associate Director - Risk

Various locations

Assistant Risk Manager
Project, programme & cost management Cost, Commercial & Procurement Full time
Assistant Risk Manager

Various locations

Assistant Risk Manager
Project, programme & cost management Cost, Commercial & Procurement Full time
Assistant Risk Manager

Various locations

Risk Manager / Senior Risk Manager
Project, programme & cost management Cost, Commercial & Procurement Full time
Risk Manager / Senior Risk Manager

Various locations

Risk Manager/ Senior Risk Manager
Project, programme & cost management Cost, Commercial & Procurement Full time
Risk Manager/ Senior Risk Manager

Various locations

Procurement Manager (Win Work)
Cost, Commercial & Procurement Full time
Procurement Manager (Win Work)

Bristol, Bristol, England, United Kingdom

Risk Manager / Senior Risk Manager
Project, programme & cost management Cost, Commercial & Procurement Full time
Risk Manager / Senior Risk Manager

Various locations

Procurement Lead (Win Work)
Corporate Cost, Commercial & Procurement Full time
Procurement Lead (Win Work)

Bristol, Bristol, England, United Kingdom

Commercial Manager
Transportation Cost, Commercial & Procurement Full time
Commercial Manager

Various locations

group of people talking to each other

Everyone belongs

We empower each individual to shine and contribute to our collective impact. We believe in the power of unique perspectives. It’s how we’re engineering a better future every single day.