At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our Warhead Containers team as a Systems Engineer, working on exciting projects from concept to disposal.
- Company: AWE is a leading organisation supporting the UK's Nuclear Weapon Programme with innovative engineering solutions.
- Benefits: Enjoy a 9-day working fortnight, generous holiday, and a market-leading pension scheme.
- Why this job: Be part of a collaborative culture focused on continuous learning and impactful projects.
- Qualifications: A STEM degree is essential; experience with Systems Engineering software is a plus.
- Other info: Limited remote work; flexible hours available to fit your lifestyle.
The predicted salary is between 31800 - 44200 £ per year.
Location: Aldermaston, West Berkshire (RG7 4PR). Located between Reading and Basingstoke, with free onsite parking. Due to the classified nature of the work involved, there are limited opportunities to work from home in this role. It is anticipated that the successful candidate will spend the majority of their time working on site at AWE Aldermaston.
Package: 37,860 - 53,000 per annum (depending on your suitability, qualifications, and level of experience).
Working pattern: AWE operates a 9-day working fortnight. We will consider flexible working requests so that your work may fit in with your lifestyle. Just let us know your preferred working pattern on your application.
Closing Date: 26th June 2025
Let us introduce the role: AWE have exciting new opportunities for Systems Engineers within our Warhead (WH) Containers team, with experience in requirements definition, functional and physical architectural design, model-based systems engineering and verification and validation.
As a member of the Warhead containers team, successful candidates will be required to support projects developing, procuring, and testing new designs in support both current and future programmes that support the UK's Nuclear Weapon Programme. The team works on multiple projects from the concept phase, into service and through to disposal and are responsible for:
- Requirements generation and management in DOORS.
- Systems Architecture development on Enterprise Architect.
- Optioneering Studies to support product development.
- Identify and manage interfaces to support the development of Concept of Operations.
- Carrying out Verification and Validation activities (including both onsite and offsite trials management).
- Stakeholder Engagement with other (international and domestic) government agencies and regulators.
- The development and delivery of viable technical solutions that meet customer requirements.
- Leading / Supporting project reviews for internal programmes and external contracts, including providing written reports and verbal briefs to management and stakeholders.
Who are we looking for? We do need you to have the following:
- A STEM degree or a related subject. Postgraduate degrees such as MEng, MSc, and/or PhD would also be welcome.
- An understanding and experience of Systems Engineering basic principles and how to apply these principles at various stages of a design lifecycle.
- Experience operating Systems Engineering software packages such as DOORS or Enterprise Architect.
- Communicating and translating complex technical problems and requirements to non-technical stakeholders.
- Either obtained or working towards professional accreditation from a professionally recognised body.
- A willingness to travel domestically and/or overseas for up to 4 weeks per year to support collaboration or trial activities.
- An adaptable and flexible approach to solve complex issues.
- Be a team player with the willingness to continuously learn and develop.
The Warhead Containers team are proud of the culture they have built and are keen to maintain and grow this capability, you can take part in this journey.
Some reasons we think you'll love it here: AWE has a wide range of benefits to suit you. These include:
- 9-day working fortnight - meaning you get every other Friday off work.
- 208 hours of holiday each year (equal to at least 25 days leave) plus Bank Holidays.
- Market leading contributory pension scheme (we will pay between 9% and 13% of your pensionable pay depending on your contributions).
- Family friendly policies: Maternity Leave - 39 Weeks Full Pay and Paternity Leave - 4 Weeks Full Pay.
- Opportunities for Professional Career Development including funding for annual membership of a relevant professional body.
- Employee Assistance Programme and Occupational Health Services.
- Life Assurance (4 x annual salary).
- Discounts - access to savings on a wide range of everyday spending.
- Special Leave Policy including paid time off for volunteering, public service (including reserve forces) and caring.
The 'Working at AWE' page on our website is where you can find full details in the 'AWE Benefits Guide'.
Systems Engineer employer: AWE
Contact Detail:
AWE Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Systems Engineer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific Systems Engineering software mentioned in the job description, such as DOORS and Enterprise Architect. Having hands-on experience or even completing online tutorials can give you a significant edge during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Engage with current trends and developments in the UK’s Nuclear Weapon Programme. Understanding the context of your role within this framework will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the position.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with professionals in the field of Systems Engineering, especially those who have experience in defence or nuclear sectors. Attend relevant industry events or join online forums to build connections that could provide insights or referrals.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your approach to stakeholder engagement and how you would communicate complex technical issues to non-technical audiences. This is crucial for the role, so having examples ready will showcase your communication skills effectively.
We think you need these skills to ace Systems Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in systems engineering, particularly with software like DOORS or Enterprise Architect. Emphasise any projects where you've defined requirements or engaged with stakeholders.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Mention specific projects or aspects of the Warhead Containers team that excite you, and how your skills align with their needs.
Highlight Your Qualifications: Clearly state your educational background, especially if you have a STEM degree or postgraduate qualifications. If you're working towards professional accreditation, mention this as well to show your commitment to the field.
Be Clear About Your Working Pattern Preferences: Since AWE is open to flexible working requests, include your preferred working pattern in your application. This shows that you are proactive and considerate of work-life balance.
How to prepare for a job interview at AWE
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Systems Engineer within the Warhead Containers team. Familiarise yourself with requirements generation, systems architecture development, and verification and validation processes, as these will likely come up during your interview.
✨Showcase Your Technical Skills
Be prepared to discuss your experience with Systems Engineering software like DOORS or Enterprise Architect. Highlight specific projects where you've applied these tools, as well as any relevant technical challenges you've overcome.
✨Communicate Clearly
Since you'll need to translate complex technical problems to non-technical stakeholders, practice explaining your past projects in simple terms. This will demonstrate your ability to engage with diverse audiences effectively.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
The Warhead Containers team values collaboration and continuous learning. Be ready to share examples of how you've worked successfully in teams, adapted to challenges, and contributed to a positive team culture.