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- Tasks: Lead the design and architecture of complex systems for critical weapon systems.
- Company: Join a dynamic team in Bristol, focused on innovative mission planning and control solutions.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working options and competitive salary ranging from £80,000 to £95,000.
- Why this job: Be part of a mission-driven team that influences international defence capabilities and fosters collaboration.
- Qualifications: Strong background in systems architecture and MBSE; excellent communication and leadership skills required.
- Other info: SC clearance is necessary; must be British or eligible to obtain it.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 84000 £ per year.
Dynamic (hybrid) working: 3-5 days per week on-site due to workload classification.
Location: Bristol, UK
Status: Requires SC clearance, will need to be British or be able to obtain SC.
We would like you to join a dedicated and driven systems engineering team as the Lead Architect, becoming an integral part in delivering the Mission Planning & Control products for a highly complex and critical weapon system providing both future cruise and anti-ship capabilities across the UK and multiple international partners.
The opportunity:
As the Lead Architect, you will be responsible for the generation of all architectural artefacts within the boundary of TP15 Mission Planning & Control through a combination of your own work, as well as guiding other architects within the team. This project, and hence role, covers multiple product offerings, and as the Lead Architect, you will have the opportunity to strive to maximise modularity and re-use across these, as well as heavily support and influence the design process. The Lead Architect role reports into the Head of TP15 Mission Planning & Control, and is expected to work and collaborate across other 1st reports to deliver on the overarching team objectives, on time, on cost and on quality.
What we’re looking for from you:
- Strong background in complex systems architecture – including having been a practitioner of MBSE in a relevant environment.
- Understanding or experience of key architectural principles in a product line environment would be advantageous.
- Great communication skills, a strong desire to build and nurture effective relationships and work collaboratively across local and wider teams.
- Ability to influence and lead effectively, including the ability to co-ordinate and drive through activities across multi-skilled teams.
- Ability to autonomously lead work packages across small to medium teams.
- Ability to learn rapidly and understand highly complex problems.
- Proficiency with IBM Engineering Workflow Management (formerly Rational Team Concert) (essential).
- DOORS Next Generation (ideal).
Lead System Architect employer: SMJ
Contact Detail:
SMJ Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead System Architect
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific tools mentioned in the job description, such as IBM Engineering Workflow Management and DOORS Next Generation. Having hands-on experience or even a basic understanding of these tools can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight your experience with Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) in your discussions. Be prepared to share examples of how you've applied MBSE principles in previous roles, as this is a key requirement for the Lead System Architect position.
✨Tip Number 3
Demonstrate your ability to lead and influence teams by preparing anecdotes that showcase your leadership skills. Think about times when you successfully coordinated multi-skilled teams or drove projects to completion, as these experiences will resonate well with the hiring team.
✨Tip Number 4
Network with professionals in the systems architecture field, especially those who have worked on similar projects. Engaging with industry peers can provide valuable insights and potentially lead to referrals, increasing your chances of landing the job.
We think you need these skills to ace Lead System Architect
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in complex systems architecture and any relevant MBSE practices. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to lead and influence multi-skilled teams.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Discuss how your background aligns with the responsibilities of the Lead Architect position, particularly your experience with IBM Engineering Workflow Management and DOORS Next Generation.
Showcase Communication Skills: Since great communication skills are essential for this role, consider including examples in your application that illustrate your ability to build relationships and collaborate effectively across teams.
Highlight Problem-Solving Abilities: Demonstrate your capability to learn rapidly and tackle complex problems. Include specific instances where you successfully led work packages or projects, showcasing your leadership and problem-solving skills.
How to prepare for a job interview at SMJ
✨Showcase Your Systems Architecture Experience
Make sure to highlight your background in complex systems architecture during the interview. Be prepared to discuss specific projects where you applied Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) principles, as this is crucial for the Lead System Architect role.
✨Demonstrate Communication Skills
Since the role requires great communication skills, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. Think of examples where you've successfully collaborated with teams or influenced stakeholders, as these will showcase your ability to build effective relationships.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions related to IBM Engineering Workflow Management and DOORS Next Generation. Brush up on your knowledge of these tools and be ready to explain how you've used them in past roles to manage architectural artefacts.
✨Exhibit Leadership Qualities
As a Lead Architect, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to lead and coordinate multi-skilled teams. Prepare examples that illustrate your leadership style and how you've driven projects to completion, focusing on your ability to manage work packages autonomously.
