Technical Lead - Complex Trials
// Role Summary
Lead complex defence trials as a Technical Lead or Trials Lead at QinetiQ, working with cutting-edge technology and influencing future defence capabilities.
// Key Responsibilities
- Lead technically complex and nationally important defence trials.
- Work directly with MOD, DE&S, Front Line Commands, and industry partners.
- Engage with cutting-edge Air and Land domain technologies.
- Deploy to UK ranges and customer locations for up to four weeks.
- Define trial objectives, develop strategies, and manage risks.
- Coordinate multidisciplinary teams for successful trial execution.
// Role Specification
About QinetiQ
At QinetiQ, we are shaping the future of defence and security through cutting-edge technology and innovation. Join our Mission Rehearsal team in Bristol and contribute to creating tomorrow's solutions today, empowering and protecting lives.
The Role: Technical Lead - Complex Trials
As a Technical Lead - Complex Trials, you will play a pivotal role in delivering some of the UK's most challenging and visible defence trials activities. You will support a range of systems including Air systems, Uncrewed Air Systems (UAS), Surface-to-Air Weapon Systems, One-Way Effectors, and emerging defence technologies.
We collaborate closely with the MOD, DE&S, Front Line Commands, and industry partners to plan, coordinate, and execute trials. These trials are crucial for generating evidence, reducing risk, and enabling critical capability decisions for future defence systems.
We are seeking individuals who can excel as Trials Technical Leads, Trials Leads, or develop across both roles, leading activities from initial concept through to successful execution.
Why Join Us?
- Lead technically complex and nationally important Trials activities.
- Work directly with MOD customers, DE&S, Front Line Commands, and external partners.
- Influence the development and assessment of future defence capabilities.
- Engage with cutting-edge technologies across Air and Land domains.
- Travel to UK ranges and customer locations, including deployments of up to four weeks.
- Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams across engineering, operations, and programme delivery.
- See the direct impact of your work through successful Trials execution and customer outcomes.
Your Responsibilities:
As a Trials Technical Lead:
Provide the leadership and technical governance required to deliver successful Trials in accordance with the Trials Process and Systems Engineering principles. This includes:
- Defining Trial objectives, requirements, and success criteria.
- Developing Trial strategies and execution plans.
- Coordinating technical inputs from multiple disciplines.
- Managing risks, assumptions, dependencies, and constraints.
- Producing and reviewing Trial documentation and evidence.
- Leading technical reviews and readiness activities.
As a Trials Lead:
Become the focal point for live Trial delivery, working closely with customers, Range operations, and technical teams to ensure successful execution. This involves:
- Deploying to ranges and customer sites.
- Coordinating technical teams, range staff, and customers.
- Leading live Trial events and demonstrations.
- Managing issues and maintaining momentum during execution.
- Providing leadership and decision-making in dynamic environments.
- Capturing outcomes and lessons learned.
Essential Experience:
- Technical leadership and project delivery experience.
- Systems Engineering knowledge and application.
- Excellent stakeholder engagement and communication skills.
- Ability to influence and coordinate multidisciplinary teams.
- Confidence in customer-facing environments.
- A proactive, adaptable, and delivery-focused mindset.
Essential Qualifications:
- Degree-level qualification in a relevant engineering discipline (e.g., Systems, Mechanical, Electrical, Aerospace, Civil).
We value diverse backgrounds and educational paths. If you demonstrate the required experience and a willingness to learn, we encourage you to apply.
Location and Working Hours
This role is based at our Bristol site, working 37 hours per week with a minimum average site attendance of three days per week. We may consider other main UK locations. Travel to other QinetiQ and customer sites will be expected.
Security Clearance
Applicants for this role must be eligible for SC clearance as a minimum. Some roles may be subject to additional restrictions based on nationality or previous nationalities.
Benefits
- Matched contribution pension scheme with life assurance.
- Generous holiday allowance, with the option to purchase additional days.
- Access to Health Cash Plan, Private Medical Insurance, and Dental Insurance.
- Employee discount portal offering savings on various services and leisure activities.
- Support for the Armed Forces community, including a Gold Award standard in the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme.
- Volunteering opportunities to support charities and the local community.