Principal Systems Engineer – Defence Engineering, Copello Global
We are seeking a Principal Systems Engineer to lead the definition, development and delivery of complex, mission‑critical systems within secure defence programmes. Operating across the full Systems Engineering lifecycle, you will guide multi‑discipline teams, shape technical solutions, assure engineering quality and ensure that stakeholder needs are fully met. This role is key to achieving technical excellence across programmes where innovation and dependable delivery are essential.
Key Responsibilities
* Act as a senior technical authority, supporting the Engineering Project Lead in delivering engineering commitments to agreed plans, budgets and schedules.
* Provide leadership for assigned Systems Engineering work packages and assurance activities, ensuring high‑quality outputs and alignment with established processes.
* Lead the development of technical solutions for large, complex engineering challenges, applying Systems Engineering best practice to satisfy demanding customer and stakeholder requirements.
* Drive the creation, review and approval of Systems Engineering artefacts across the entire V‑cycle, ensuring traceability, completeness and compliance.
* Collaborate with system, hardware, firmware and software architects to maintain technical coherence, promote modular design, encourage re‑use and uphold engineering excellence.
* Lead, manage and report on defined project elements to achieve the optimal balance between requirements, schedule and cost.
* Engage confidently with customers, partners and suppliers to ensure adherence to agreed processes and successful delivery of project objectives.
* Contribute to technical proposals and bids, providing robust estimates of effort, cost and risk.
* Review, approve and sign off significant engineering documentation; chair or support major technical reviews as required.
* Develop and maintain deep expertise in a specific technical, practice or product area, acting as a recognised Subject Matter Expert within the organisation.
Skills & Experience
* Extensive Systems Engineering experience at senior/principal level, with a deep understanding of the V‑cycle and systems development models.
* Demonstrated capability in defining and managing high‑quality requirements and creating compliant systems designs.
* Proven experience delivering across the full Systems Engineering lifecycle on complex, multi‑discipline programmes.
* Ability to provide technical leadership, influence engineering direction and mentor junior engineers.
* Strong experience producing and reviewing high‑quality technical documentation.
* Broad knowledge of Systems Engineering methodologies, processes, techniques and emerging technology trends.
* Practical experience with DOORS, SysML, UML and modelling environments such as Enterprise Architect.
* INCOSE ASEP/CSEP (or progressing toward ESEP).
* Experience operating as a technical Subject Matter Expert.
* Familiarity with NCSC security processes and the creation of security artefacts.
Seniority Level
Mid‑Senior level
Employment Type
Full‑time
Job Function
Engineering, Design, and Other
Industries
Defense and Space Manufacturing, Aviation and Aerospace Component Manufacturing, and Military and International Affairs
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