At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead systems engineering projects that shape the future of defence technology.
- Company: Join Northrop Grumman UK, a leader in innovative defence solutions.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, private healthcare, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace with diverse roles and mentoring support.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on national security while growing your career.
- Qualifications: Degree in engineering and 3-5 years' experience in systems engineering required.
The predicted salary is between 65000 - 72000 £ per year.
UK CITIZENSHIP REQUIRED FOR THIS POSITION: Yes
RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be available
TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the Time
Location: New Malden (hybrid working)
Salary: £65,000 - £72,000
What’s Your Possible? At Northrop Grumman UK, you will help shape the technology and solutions of tomorrow. As part of our team, you will contribute to solving some of the world’s most complex challenges. This is what we call Defining Possible. This mindset powers our innovation, our impact, and your career development.
The Opportunity: This is more than just a job; it’s a mission. As a Principal Systems Engineer, you will play a central role in delivering Systems Engineering activities across key defence programmes. You will support the full engineering lifecycle, from understanding customer needs through to system design, integration, acceptance and delivery. You’ll work within our Defence Systems Engineering team, supporting programmes critical to UK national security, including multi‑domain command and control systems used across the Royal Navy and internationally. Your expertise will directly influence technical quality, design assurance and programme success.
What You Will Do:
- Lead, conduct and deliver Systems Engineering work packages across the project lifecycle.
- Produce and review technical documentation in line with programme schedules.
- Plan, prepare and deliver key design reviews including SRR, PDR and CDR.
- Manage technical aspects of suppliers, ensuring alignment with requirements and design baselines.
- Review technical documentation from customers and suppliers, providing challenge and assurance.
- Integrate effectively with Hardware, Mechanical, Software, V&V, ILS, Cybersecurity and Safety teams.
- Provide technical leadership to deliver work packages on time, to cost and quality.
- Support risk management, opportunity assessments, bids, proposals and estimation activities.
What We’re Looking For:
Essential:
- Degree in Systems, Software, Electrical Engineering or a related field.
- 3–5 years’ experience in systems engineering within defence, maritime, aerospace or a regulated environment.
- Experience of system requirements, design, integration, acceptance and analysis.
- Knowledge of control systems, PLC/SCADA and operational technology.
- Experience with Model‑Based Design and tools such as Enterprise Architect.
- Strong interpersonal and stakeholder skills with the ability to influence at all levels.
- Experience in requirements management tools such as DOORS.
- Understanding of the marine environment, environmental standards and safety‑related systems.
Preferred:
- Knowledge of V&V activities including environmental and EMC testing.
- INCOSE ASE or CSEP accreditation.
If you feel inspired by the role but don’t meet every requirement, we encourage you to apply.
Security Clearance: Due to the nature of our work, you must meet the nationality and residency requirements for UK Security Check (SC) clearance. You must be able to gain and maintain SC clearance.
Benefits:
- Flexible and hybrid working options, including a compressed fortnight with every other Friday off
- Private healthcare
- Cash health plan
- Holiday buy and sell options
- Career development, mentoring and professional training
- Performance‑related bonuses
Why Join Us?
A Mission to Believe In: Work on technology that protects national security and supports operations across land, sea, air, space and cyberspace.
A Place to Belong and Thrive: Bring your authentic self to work and join an inclusive community supported by employee networks and partnerships across defence, engineering and wellbeing.
Your Career, Your Way: Shape your career journey with diverse roles, structured development, mentoring and opportunities to grow your expertise.
Ready to Apply? Yes – Submit your application online. Possibly – Contact our team for more information: talentenquiries@uk.ngc.com Not right now – Explore other opportunities across Northrop Grumman UK. We are growing nationwide.
Northrop Grumman is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce, and encourages individuals from all backgrounds and all abilities to apply and consider becoming a part of our diverse and inclusive workforce.
Principal Systems Engineer employer: Dormont Manufacturing Co
At Northrop Grumman UK, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration. Our hybrid working model allows for flexibility, while our commitment to employee development ensures that you can shape your career through mentoring and professional training. Join us in New Malden, where you will contribute to critical defence programmes that protect national security, all within an inclusive community that values your authentic self.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Systems Engineer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees at Northrop Grumman on LinkedIn or through mutual connections. A friendly chat can give you insider info and might just get your foot in the door.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into the company’s projects and values. Show them you’re not just another candidate; you’re genuinely interested in their mission and how you can contribute to it.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your technical skills and be ready to discuss your past experiences in systems engineering. Use real examples that highlight your problem-solving abilities and how you’ve tackled challenges in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at Northrop Grumman.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Systems Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Principal Systems Engineer role. Highlight your relevant experience in systems engineering, especially within defence or regulated environments. We want to see how your skills align with what we’re looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about this role and how your background makes you a great fit. Don’t forget to mention any specific projects or experiences that relate to our mission.
Showcase Your Technical Skills:We’re keen on your technical expertise, so be sure to include any relevant tools and methodologies you’ve used, like Model-Based Design or requirements management tools. This will help us see your hands-on experience in action!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our company culture there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Dormont Manufacturing Co
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your technical knowledge related to systems engineering, especially in defence and maritime contexts. Familiarise yourself with key concepts like system requirements, design, and integration, as well as tools like DOORS and Enterprise Architect.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to discuss your previous projects and how they relate to the role. Highlight specific examples where you've led systems engineering work packages or managed technical aspects of suppliers. This will demonstrate your hands-on experience and ability to deliver results.
✨Understand the Mission
Research Northrop Grumman's role in national security and the specific programmes you'll be involved in. Showing that you understand their mission and how your skills can contribute will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the team dynamics, project challenges, and future opportunities within the company. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the company culture aligns with your values.
