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- Tasks: Shape the future of underwater defence technology and lead complex engineering projects.
- Company: ALTEN, a global leader in engineering and technology consultancy.
- Benefits: Hybrid work model, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a passionate team in a secure environment with excellent career advancement opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on national defence while working on cutting-edge submarine systems.
- Qualifications: 8+ years in systems engineering with expertise in defence or maritime sectors.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
ALTEN is a global engineering and technology consultancy operating across over 30 countries worldwide. We partner with industry leaders across sectors including Aeronautics, Aerospace, Defence, Naval, Automotive, Energy, Rail, and many more to deliver innovative engineering solutions that drive technological advancement and support sustainable transformation. Our teams of passionate and agile engineers work on cutting-edge projects that shape the future of technology and sustainability. At ALTEN, we empower talented engineers to innovate, solve complex challenges, and deliver impactful solutions that build tomorrow’s world—today.
Play a key role in shaping the future of underwater defence technology. ALTEN is seeking experienced Systems Engineers to support the development of mission-critical submarine systems on a long-term UK defence programme. Working on a complex multi-domain architecture, you will take ownership across the entire systems engineering lifecycle — from understanding end-user needs through to solution design, integration and validation. This is an opportunity to deliver impactful engineering in a secure, high-integrity environment, where your expertise directly supports national defence capability.
Location: Manchester (Hybrid – 2/3 days per week on site)
Clearance: Candidates must be willing and eligible to obtain SC clearance.
Experience Level: Senior (8+ years)
Responsibilities:
- Own and deliver system-level engineering work packages across the entire V-Model lifecycle.
- Lead and contribute to systems design, architecture development, and requirements derivation.
- Apply systems thinking to identify and mitigate technical risks, dependencies, and system interfaces.
- Analyse and interpret User Requirements Documents (URDs), create and manage baselines.
- Define and execute validation and verification strategies for complex hardware/software systems.
- Collaborate within project teams to produce high-quality artefacts, from concepts to test readiness.
Qualifications:
- 8+ years in systems engineering within defence, maritime, or similarly regulated sectors.
- Strong command of DOORS, system requirements management, and V lifecycle development.
- Understanding of submarine systems, complex defence architectures, or systems-of-systems.
- Familiarity with system safety, risk mitigation, and change management best practices.
- Proven ability to work independently, manage delivery, and communicate effectively.
- Must hold (or be eligible for) SC Clearance.
Soft Skills details of the evidence required to apply may be found on the government website Gov.UK. If you are unable to meet this and any associated criteria, then your employment may be delayed, or rejected. Details of this will be discussed with you at interview.
Senior Systems Engineer – Defence employer: ALTEN LTD - UK
Contact Detail:
ALTEN LTD - UK Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Systems Engineer – Defence
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the defence sector and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings that aren't even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research ALTEN and their projects, especially in underwater defence technology. Show them you’re not just another candidate; you’re genuinely interested in shaping the future of their systems engineering.
✨Tip Number 3
Tailor your approach! When you apply through our website, make sure your CV and cover letter highlight your experience with systems engineering and any relevant projects. We want to see how you can contribute to our mission!
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way. It shows your enthusiasm and keeps you fresh in their minds as they make their decision. Plus, it’s a great chance to reiterate why you’re the perfect fit for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Systems Engineer – Defence
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Senior Systems Engineer role. Highlight your experience in systems engineering, especially within defence or maritime sectors. We want to see how your skills align with the job description!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about underwater defence technology and how your background makes you a perfect fit for ALTEN. Let us know what excites you about this opportunity!
Showcase Relevant Projects: When detailing your experience, focus on specific projects that demonstrate your expertise in systems design and lifecycle management. We love seeing concrete examples of how you've tackled complex challenges in previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at ALTEN!
How to prepare for a job interview at ALTEN LTD - UK
✨Know Your Systems Engineering Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your systems engineering knowledge, especially around the V-Model lifecycle and DOORS. Be ready to discuss how you've applied these in past projects, particularly in defence or maritime contexts.
✨Understand the User Requirements
Familiarise yourself with User Requirements Documents (URDs) and be prepared to explain how you’ve interpreted and managed them in previous roles. This will show that you can effectively translate user needs into technical solutions.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare examples of how you've identified and mitigated technical risks in complex systems. Highlight your experience with system safety and change management to demonstrate your ability to handle challenges in a high-integrity environment.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Practice articulating your thoughts clearly, especially when discussing technical concepts. Effective communication is key in collaborative environments, so be ready to showcase how you’ve worked within project teams to deliver high-quality outcomes.