Systems Engineer (with Electrical and Electronics Hardware Experience)
Location: Bournemouth Airport Job Type: Full-Time | Permanent Department: Engineering
About Spherea
Spherea UK, part of the multinational Spherea Group, is a cross-industry provider of complex test systems and test consultancy. We work with leading aerospace and defence primes, airlines, operators, and MRO organisations, delivering complete test solutions across the entire product lifecycle.
With a heritage of over 50 years, we have developed solutions for commercial aircraft, helicopters, armoured military vehicles, battle tanks, space platforms, nuclear control systems and even rail systems.
Our mission is simple: to test the world—enabling our clients to validate, de-risk, and commercialise their technologies more rapidly and cost-effectively.
Our UK business, based in Bournemouth, supports customers across the UK and Northern Europe, with further offices in France, Germany, North America, India and China.
The Systems Engineer Role
We are seeking a Systems Engineer with disciplined in Electrical and & Electronic Engineering who thrives on solving complex problems, working on bespoke systems, and owning the product lifecycle—from concept through to delivery and support.
This cross-disciplinary role will involve a blend of system-level engineering, hardware / electrical and electronics design, and project execution. You will collaborate with customers, internal teams, and external partners to design, develop, and validate tailored test systems across a variety of critical industries.
This role is based in our Bournemouth office, with occasional travel to customer sites across the UK and visits to our French HQ / German Sites as needed.
Systems Engineer Key Responsibilities
You will be involved in all stages of the engineering lifecycle, including:
System Design & Architecture
* Design modular and bespoke test systems for Defence, Aerospace, and Space sectors.
* Define system concepts, architecture, and technical feasibility with input from customers and stakeholders.
* Capture high-level and detailed requirements for systems and subsystems.
* Define and document internal and external interfaces.
Electronics & Electrical Hardware Engineering
* Design and develop electronic hardware (analogue/digital).
* Build high-reliability systems using high-speed technologies and COTS instruments.
* Support prototype development through to full-scale productisation and manufacturing.
* Perform hardware integration and commissioning.
Verification & Validation
* Define verification strategies, create test plans and procedures, and support system validation.
* Perform diagnostic and failure analysis using lab equipment such as oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, and automated test platforms.
Project Support
* Participate in technical pre-sales (demonstrations, bid preparation).
* Support production teams and assist with in-service transitions.
* Contribute to project management and technical documentation.
* Engage in knowledge sharing, mentoring, and continuous improvement activities.
Who We’re Looking For
We’re looking for a multi-talented engineer with strong problem-solving skills, curiosity, and a proactive mind set. You should be adaptable, entrepreneurial, and passionate about designing innovative technical solutions from the ground up.
Systems Engineer Essential Skills & Experience
* Degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering (or equivalent).
* Minimum 8 years of experience in hardware or systems engineering.
* Proven experience in analogue/digital electronics and electrical design.
* Experience with high-speed technologies and integration of COTS instruments.
* Strong understanding of full engineering lifecycle (V-model, EVM, etc.).
* Ability to manage technical projects and work independently or collaboratively.
* Excellent communication and documentation skills.
Desirable Skills:
* Software design and coding knowledge.
* Familiarity with communication protocols: A429, RS232/422/485, CAN, Ethernet, AFDX, I2C, SPI.
* Experience with automated test equipment and diagnostics tools.
* Understanding of adjacent engineering domains: control systems, power electronics, physics, electromechanics, or RF.
* Security clearance at SC level (or eligibility to obtain it).
Why Join Spherea?
At Spherea, you won’t be just another cog in the wheel. You’ll be deeply involved in shaping solutions for high-impact, safety & mission-critical systems. Expect a fast-paced, collaborative environment with the freedom to innovate, and the support to grow your skills and career.
Systems Engineer Benefits
· Competitive salary
· Annual performance bonus
· Generous pension scheme (4% employee / 8% employer)
· 27 days holiday + bank holidays
· Flexible/remote working options (post-qualifying period)
· Private healthcare plan – family cover
· Family Cash Plan – dental, optical & physio etc.
· Life Assurance & Income Protection
· Opportunities to travel and collaborate internationally (France, Germany & USA)