Copello is recruiting for Systems Engineers to support a defence communications programme currently progressing between Critical Design Review (CDR) and qualification maturity on a contract basis.
The successful candidates will be capable of leading and delivering individual sub-system work packages, while also contributing hands-on engineering effort to ensure timely completion of design, integration, and qualification activities.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead and execute assigned sub-system elements from post-CDR through to qualification readiness.
* Own technical work packages, ensuring delivery to cost, schedule, and quality targets.
* Contribute to overall system integration, ensuring coherent end-to-end solutions.
Experience in one or more of the following areas is required across the team:
* Datalinks
* Integration of COTS datalink solutions
* Repackaging activities including thermal management (e.g. heaters), environmental considerations, and installation constraints
* Cryptographic Systems
* Integration and “wrapping” of MOTS cryptographic packages
* Management of secure interfaces and compliance with defence security requirements
* Remote Ship Terminal (RST)
* End-to-end terminal definition including laptop, datalink, crypto, antennas, cabling
* Small-scale racking / transport cases, power distribution, and deployable configurations
* Low Voltage Power Supply Units (LVPSU)
* Technical interface management with external suppliers
* Supporting qualification activities for supplier-built units currently in development
* Ground Support Equipment (GSE)
* Definition and maturation of equipment for deployed bases
* Packing, handling, transport, and maintenance kits
* Taking partially defined concepts through to complete, usable units
Documentation & Governance
* Produce and mature system-level documentation, including:
* Interface Control Documents (ICDs)
* System Design Documents
* Sub-system specifications and supporting technical artefacts
* Support design reviews, qualification planning, and stakeholder engagement.
Skills & Experience Required
Essential
* Strong background in Systems Engineering within defence, aerospace, or similarly regulated environments
* Proven experience working post-CDR through to qualification
* Ability to both lead technical work packages and deliver detailed engineering outputs
* Experience managing supplier interfaces and integrating COTS/MOTS solutions
* Solid understanding of system integration, interfaces, and configuration control
* Comfortable working in secure, process-driven environments
Role will require candidates to work on clients Buckinghamshire site 4 days a week with occasional 5 days. Role will require candidates to have active SC clearance or eligibility for SC.
Role is paying £75-£77 per hour (inside IR35) and is initially a 6 month contract