We are seeking an experienced Submarine Combat Systems Engineer to join our permanent engineering capability, supporting the design, development, integration and in-service evolution of UK submarine combat systems.
This role is specifically aimed at candidates with proven, hands-on experience of submarine combat systems engineering. You will play a key role in delivering capability at pace, modernising legacy systems, and enabling spiral development in line with Defence's Faster Way Forward for Innovation .
The successful candidate will work across the Submarine Enterprise - MOD, Royal Navy, Defence Digital, Dstl and industry - ensuring combat systems remain operationally dominant, adaptable to emerging threats, and deliverable through modern engineering approaches.
Key Responsibilities
Submarine Combat Systems Engineering
Engineer, integrate and assure submarine combat system elements, including:
Sonar and sensor systems
Command, control and tactical data processing
Weapon control and combat management functions
Operator interfaces and display systems
Contribute to system-of-systems design across platforms, training systems and shore-based facilities
Ensure solutions meet submarine-specific constraints such as safety, stealth, survivability and availability
Capability Delivery & Modernisation
Support incremental and spiral delivery of combat system capability, reducing reliance on large monolithic upgrades
Contribute to rapid capability insertion, trials and operational experimentation
Balance innovation with regulatory, safety and security constraints inherent in submarine environments
Engineering Leadership & Assurance
Provide informed technical judgement across design reviews, trade studies and assurance activities
Support safety case, cyber security and information assurance inputs for combat systems
Identify and manage technical risk throughout the delivery lifecycle
Stakeholder Collaboration
Work directly with Royal Navy operators, test teams and acceptance authorities
Collaborate with Defence Digital, Dstl and industrial partners to align delivery with Defence digital and innovation strategies
Translate operational needs into clear engineering requirements and viable technical solutions
Essential Skills & Experience (Mandatory)
Candidates must be able to demonstrate all of the following:
Proven experience in Submarine Combat Systems Engineering
Practical experience working with submarine combat system elements such as sonar, C2, combat management or weapon systems
Experience delivering or supporting changes to operational submarine combat systems
Strong systems engineering background, including requirements, integration and verification
Desirable Skills & Experience
Experience on current or legacy UK submarine classes
Knowledge of open or modular combat system architectures
Experience supporting trials, sea acceptance or operational test activities
Qualifications
Degree (or equivalent experience) in Systems Engineering, Software Engineering, Electronic Engineering or a related discipline
Chartered or working toward chartered status (desirable)
Personal Attributes
High levels of technical credibility and professional integrity
Pragmatic approach to problem-solving, balancing innovation and assurance
Comfortable operating in complex, multi-stakeholder environments
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Commitment to maintaining the highest standards of safety, security and operational effectiveness
TPBN1_UKTJ