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- Tasks: Shape the future of underwater defence technology through systems engineering.
- Company: Join ALTEN, a global leader in innovative engineering solutions.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, competitive salary, private medical insurance, and more perks.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on national defence while working on exciting projects.
- Qualifications: 8+ years in systems engineering; relevant degree required.
- Other info: Be part of a community that values innovation and personal growth.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Are you passionate about engineering? Do you want to make a difference? You could be one of our 54k+ colleagues in over 30 countries working on inspiring projects in the most innovative companies. Join us and start building 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'll 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 Required: UK Eyes Only (Sole UK National) / SC Cleared
Experience Level: Senior (8+ years)
Key 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 Skills & Experience Required:
- 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) UK Eyes Only / SC Clearance.
Qualifications:
- A Bachelor's degree (minimum) in a relevant field such as Systems Engineering, Aerospace, Electronics, Mechanical, or Physics.
- A Master's degree in a related technical discipline is highly desirable.
- Alternatively, a relevant technical background in the UK Armed Forces with applied systems engineering experience is equally valued.
Additional Information:
We foster a community of dually talented individuals who are both entrepreneurs and technology specialists. Our teams embody the spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship, enabling us to develop solutions most efficiently. Our commitment to sustainable growth is unwavering, and we continuously strive for accelerated transformation and continuous improvement. Through ALTEN labs, mentoring programs, internal universities, and more, we are always pushing boundaries and embracing new possibilities. We offer incredible opportunities to join inspiring projects in the most innovative companies. We prioritise your career development with personalised support plans tailored to your own aspirations. We're here to empower you and help you reach your full potential. Join our passionate team and start building tomorrow, today!
In short you get:
- A personalised career path and a rewarding management style.
- A chance to work on the most exciting engineering projects and technologies along with Premium Customers.
- A huge diversity of engineering projects and industries.
- A competitive salary.
- Private Medical Insurance.
- Pension Scheme.
- Cycle-to-work Scheme among many additional benefits.
- Social atmosphere, regular gatherings, and team buildings.
- Flexible way of working (role dependent).
Senior Systems Engineer - Defence (Underwater Systems) employer: ALTEN
Contact Detail:
ALTEN Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Systems Engineer - Defence (Underwater Systems)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific technologies and methodologies mentioned in the job description, such as DOORS and V lifecycle development. This will not only help you understand the role better but also allow you to speak confidently about your relevant experience during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the defence and maritime sectors. Attend industry events or join online forums where you can connect with current employees at ALTEN or similar companies. This can provide valuable insights and potentially lead to referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with complex systems engineering projects, particularly those involving submarine systems or defence architectures. Be ready to share specific examples that demonstrate your ability to manage risks and deliver high-quality results.
✨Tip Number 4
Research ALTEN's recent projects and initiatives in underwater defence technology. Being knowledgeable about their work will show your genuine interest in the company and help you tailor your responses during interviews to align with their goals.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Systems Engineer - Defence (Underwater Systems)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Senior Systems Engineer position. Familiarise yourself with the key skills mentioned in the job description, such as systems engineering within defence and experience with DOORS.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience and skills that align with the job description. Emphasise your 8+ years of experience in systems engineering, particularly in defence or maritime sectors, and any specific projects that demonstrate your expertise.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for engineering and your understanding of underwater defence technology. Mention how your background and skills make you a perfect fit for the role and express your enthusiasm for contributing to national defence capabilities.
Proofread and Edit: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. Ensure that your documents are clear, concise, and professional, as attention to detail is crucial in engineering roles.
How to prepare for a job interview at ALTEN
✨Understand the V-Model Lifecycle
Make sure you have a solid grasp of the V-Model lifecycle, as this role requires ownership across the entire engineering process. Be prepared to discuss how you've applied this model in your previous projects.
✨Familiarise Yourself with DOORS
Since strong command of DOORS is essential for this position, brush up on your skills and be ready to explain how you've used it for system requirements management in past roles.
✨Showcase Your Systems Thinking
Prepare examples that demonstrate your ability to identify and mitigate technical risks and dependencies. Highlight any experience you have with complex defence architectures or systems-of-systems.
✨Communicate Your Independent Work Experience
This role requires the ability to work independently and manage delivery effectively. Be ready to share specific instances where you've successfully led projects or initiatives without direct supervision.
