Technical Lead – Naval Simulation Programme
Bristol (with travel to Portsmouth)
Hybrid working
UK Nationals only, due to clearance constraints
Are you a technically strong leader looking to take ownership of a complex, high-impact defence programme?
We are seeking a Technical Lead to play a pivotal role on a major Royal Navy simulation programme. This is a unique opportunity to step into a large, evolving environment where no two days are the same—offering real influence over technical direction, delivery, and team shape.
The Opportunity
You'll act as the technical authority across a major simulator programme, ensuring delivery meets the highest engineering standards while navigating the realities of a complex, fast-moving environment.
This is not a "steady-state" programme—there are challenges around funding, priorities, and structure, so we're looking for someone who thrives in ambiguity, can bring clarity, and drive outcomes.
You'll also have the opportunity to build and shape your own team and influence how the programme evolves.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead the technical solution and delivery across a large-scale naval simulation programme
* Act as the focal point for all technical decisions, providing clear leadership and direction
* Take ownership as the technical authority, ensuring solutions meet required standards and outcomes
* Coordinate technical activity across the full lifecycle (concept through to acceptance)
* Engage with customers through reviews, demos, and acceptance activities
* Ensure engineering work is well-defined, prioritised, and delivered to quality
* Mentor and lead multidisciplinary teams, driving best practice and continuous improvement
* Act as the key interface with internal teams, customers, and partners
* Identify and manage technical risks and mitigation strategies
* Support bids, changes, and proposals with technical input and estimation
What We're Looking For
* Strong background in systems engineering
* Experience leading delivery of complex, multi-disciplinary programmes
* Proven ability to lead technical teams in challenging environments
* Comfortable working in fast-paced, evolving, and sometimes ambiguous programmes
* Strong stakeholder management and communication skills
Desirable
- Experience with simulation technologies
- Exposure to defence or naval environments
Why This Role?
* Work on a critical, high-visibility defence programme
* Operate with real ownership and technical authority
* Opportunity to shape teams and influence delivery approach
* Join a programme where your impact will be immediate and tangible
If you're a hands-on technical leader who thrives in complexity and wants to make a real difference, we'd love to hear from you.
Apply or message me directly to find out more