About the Role
We’re seeking a practicing and experienced Lead Systems Engineer to join our world‑leading Time and Frequency Department. We maintain and develop the UK’s National Time Scale, UTC (NPL), and are currently developing a new resilient Time Scale that will underpin our Digital Infrastructure. You will be joining at an exciting time, as we drive the maturation of our systems and network engineering capabilities, and lead the architecture and deployment of NPL’s time scale. This is a pivotal role in shaping technical strategy, advancing world‑class engineering practices, and delivering solutions that underpin the UK’s time and frequency infrastructure.
As Lead Systems Engineer in the delivery programme of our new resilient Time Scale facility, you will work alongside prominent scientists, engineers, and experts in time and frequency transfer and optical networks. You will enjoy a pivotal role in developing solutions to critical technical challenges while applying leading‑edge techniques and technologies.
Key Responsibilities
* Collaborative Leadership: Lead with influence across multi‑disciplinary teams and senior stakeholders to shape technical strategy, foster strategic partnerships, and deliver impactful outcomes aligned with NPL’s mission.
* Risk Management & Mitigation: Oversee the delivery of solutions that address ambiguity and challenges in a timely manner, ensuring risks are effectively managed and mitigation actions are clearly communicated.
* Systems Engineering Maturation: Drive the advancement of Systems Engineering within the Time & Frequency department by establishing world‑class practices, developing innovative solutions, and building new capabilities aligned with NPL’s strategic direction.
* Architectural Integrity: Ensure system architecture and frameworks meet technical requirements, maintain integrity across subsystems, and lead the development of high‑level designs and interface definitions; deliver robust, scalable, and technically aligned design solutions.
* Quality & Compliance: Ensure adherence to governance standards across quality, health, safety, security, and environmental legislation; minimise business risk and enhance NPL’s reputation.
* Team Leadership: Inspire and lead your team to achieve high performance, foster motivation, and support individual potential and development.
About You
Reporting to a Group Leader, you’ll have responsibility for the development of systems plans; to time, quality and cost. You’ll utilise analytical and technical skills to contribute to the design, implementation, and monitoring of systems to push the boundaries of measurement accuracy and stability.
Essential Qualifications
* A degree (or equivalent qualification) in a relevant technical field such as Computer Science or Electronic Engineering.
* Previous experience leading a team in the design of complex systems.
* Experience working on large technical delivery programmes and engaging with key stakeholders to address evolving requirements.
* Exceptional written and oral communication skills with the ability to explain complex technical concepts.
* Familiarity with development methodologies such as Agile and iterative approaches.
Highly Desirable
* Experience in time and frequency measurement and time scales.
* Knowledge of cybersecurity principles for critical infrastructure.
* Leadership in technical innovation and capability building.
Security Clearance
To work at NPL you will need to obtain BPSS security clearance. For this role in the Time & Frequency department you will need an SC clearance with no restrictions, or the ability to obtain an SC clearance.
Application Notes
Applications will be reviewed and interviews conducted throughout the duration of this advert. We may at any time bring the closing date forward. We encourage all interested applicants to apply as soon as possible.
About Us
The National Physical Laboratory (NPL) is a world‑leading centre of excellence that provides cutting‑edge measurement science, engineering and technology to underpin prosperity and quality of life in the UK.
NPL and DSIT have strong commitments to diversity and equality of opportunity, and welcome applications from candidates irrespective of their background, gender, race, sexual orientation, religion or age. Applications from women, disabled and black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates are especially encouraged. All disabled candidates who satisfy the minimum criteria will be guaranteed an interview under the Disability Confident Scheme.
We are committed to the health and well‑being of our employees. Flexible working and social activities are built into our culture to create a positive work‑life balance, along with a broad range of rewards, benefits and recognition. If you would like to discuss, please contact us.
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