Senior Principal System Engineer
// Role Summary
Shape the future of the Royal Navy as a Senior Principal Systems Engineer at QinetiQ, driving innovation in Hybrid Navy solutions and influencing critical defence capabilities.
// Key Responsibilities
- Act as a trusted technical advisor to senior MOD and Royal Navy stakeholders.
- Lead the delivery of strategic Hybrid Navy solutions and System of Systems programmes.
- Influence future capability development and long-term defence strategies.
- Manage technical risk and assurance across complex defence programmes.
- Develop and mentor high-performing systems engineering teams.
- Minimum SC clearance required.
// Role Specification
About QinetiQ and the Role
At QinetiQ, we are creating the future of defence technology and innovation. Join us as a Senior Principal Systems Engineer at our Portsmouth Technology Park (PTP) site to work with cutting-edge technology alongside brilliant minds.
Your Impact
As a Senior Principal Systems Engineer, you will be instrumental in shaping the future operating model of the Royal Navy. You will serve as a trusted technical advisor, influence future capability development, and lead the delivery of strategic Hybrid Navy solutions. This is a unique opportunity to shape operational and technical concepts that will underpin future naval operations.
What You'll Do
You will work directly with senior MOD and Royal Navy stakeholders, providing leadership across complex System of Systems programmes. Your responsibilities will include defining how future naval capabilities integrate platforms, networks, autonomy, data, and operational concepts. Key activities include:
- Leading System of Systems engineering activities across Hybrid Navy programmes.
- Providing strategic technical leadership to MOD and Royal Navy customers.
- Shaping future capability concepts and long-term defence solutions.
- Leading major technical bids, business development, and customer engagement activities.
- Managing technical risk and assurance across complex programmes.
- Developing and mentoring high-performing systems engineering teams.
Essential Experience
- Extensive Systems Engineering experience within Defence, Maritime, or National Security environments.
- Proven leadership of large-scale System of Systems or enterprise integration programmes.
- Strong understanding of defence capability development and acquisition processes.
- Experience working with senior military, MOD, or government stakeholders.
- Experience leading multidisciplinary engineering teams and technical delivery.
- Demonstrable ability to shape strategy, influence customers, and develop future capability.
Essential Qualifications
- Degree qualified in Engineering, Systems Engineering, or a related discipline.
- Chartered Engineer (CEng) or equivalent professional registration.
What We Value
We value diversity and welcome applicants from various backgrounds and educational paths. If you possess the required experience and a willingness to learn, we encourage you to apply. This role requires a minimum of SC clearance.
Work Environment
This role is based at our Portsmouth Technology Park (PTP) site, with a standard 37-hour week. A minimum average site attendance of three days per week is expected, with occasional travel to other QinetiQ and customer sites.
Benefits
- Matched contribution pension scheme with life assurance.
- Generous holiday allowance, with options to purchase additional days.
- Access to Health Cash Plan, Private Medical Insurance, and Dental Insurance.
- Employee discount portal offering various discounts and insurances.