Principal Systems Engineer
// Role Summary
Lead the development of next-generation mission computing systems for military aircraft as a Principal Systems Engineer. You will be the design authority for critical system components and manage their full lifecycle.
// Key Responsibilities
- Spearhead system architecture and design for advanced military mission computers.
- Act as the technical decision-maker for major system work packages.
- Lead requirements definition, integration, verification, and qualification.
- Interface with customers to resolve technical challenges and shape system direction.
- Require experience with complex engineering systems and defence/aerospace environments.
// Role Specification
Principal Systems Engineer - Next-Generation Mission Computing
General Dynamics Mission Systems is seeking Principal Systems Engineers to play a pivotal role in the development and delivery of next-generation mission computing systems for military aircraft platforms. You will be responsible for the integrity and suitability of the design of these cutting-edge products and for leading the full life-cycle management, including design reviews, verification, and qualification activities.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead the development of system architectures, concepts of operation, and system design specifications for complex products.
- Act as design authority or technical decision-maker for major system work packages.
- Lead requirements definition, flow-down, optimization, and traceability across the system lifecycle.
- Lead integration, verification, validation, and qualification for complex systems.
- Review and approve engineering documentation produced by project teams.
- Interface with customers to resolve complex technical challenges and influence system direction.
Ideal Candidate Profile:
- Experience delivering complex engineering systems.
- Expert knowledge of systems engineering methods and life-cycle governance.
- Experience with requirements management tools (e.g., DOORS) and modelling environments (e.g., Rhapsody, PTC Modeler).
- Strong architectural thinking across hardware, software, firmware, mechanical, and integration domains.
- Skilled in leading technical teams and coordinating multi-disciplinary engineering activities.
- Exceptional problem-solving and technical judgment.
- Ability to support business development and shape technical solutions for bids.
- Degree (or equivalent) in Engineering or a related technical field; advanced degree desirable.
- Demonstrated leadership of major system work packages or cross-discipline engineering teams.
- Experience working with defence, aerospace, maritime, or safety-critical systems environments.
- Desirable: advanced qualifications in MBSE, airworthiness, safety, or chartership.
- Experience working with or familiarity with AI/ML models is preferred.
Why Join Us?
- A competitive salary package between £59,200 and £80,000, plus a flexible benefits package.
- Enjoy a compressed nine-day fortnight, giving you every other Friday off.
- Benefit from a personalized career development plan and regular progress reviews.
- Experience a flexible working environment, with options for hybrid working (typically 3 days in office) or full-time office-based work.
- Be part of an inclusive and diverse team where your contributions are recognized and rewarded.
All successful applicants must be able to obtain the appropriate level of UK Security Clearance and undertake suitable Right to Work checks.