Principal Systems Engineer
Principal Systems Engineer

Principal Systems Engineer

Cranfield Full-Time 48000 - 72000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Design and develop cutting-edge systems for the Nuclear Defence and Space Industry.
  • Company: Framatome is a global leader in nuclear energy, known for innovative solutions and technologies.
  • Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, private healthcare, and a cycle-to-work scheme.
  • Why this job: Join a dynamic team making a real impact in nuclear safety and technology.
  • Qualifications: 10+ years in engineering management within a regulated nuclear environment required.
  • Other info: Must be a British National or Citizen to apply.

The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.

Job Opening Title Principal Systems EngineerJob type Non fixed termFramatome is a major international player in the nuclear energy market recognised for its innovative solutions and value-added technologies for designing, building, maintaining, and advancing the global nuclear fleet. The company designs, manufactures, and installs components, fuel and instrumentation and control systems for nuclear power plants and offers a full range of reactor services.With 20,000 employees worldwide, every day Framatome\’s expertise helps its customers improve the safety and performance of their nuclear plants and achieve their economic and societal goals.Framatome is owned by the EDF Group (80.5%) and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI – 19.5%)In the UK we are currently over 400 strong, and we have plans for continued growth over the coming years. Our target is to grow to 500 during 2025 through the development our UK nuclear service offerings.The delivery of effective external and internal marketing and communications will be essential to achieving these goals.We are looking for a detail-oriented Principal Systems Engineer to design, develop, and implement state-of-the-art systems for the Nuclear Defence and Space Industry. Responsibilities include understanding military and European/UK Space Agency requirements, defining system specifications, and developing system architectures. The ideal candidate will be familiar with the lifecycle of defence/space system development, from initial concept development to testing, deployment, and system maintenance. The role will require to produce high-quality, innovative, and effective engineering solutions that meet all design requirements and standards. This role typically requires a strong understanding of engineering principles, ideally within a nuclear environment, coupled with the ability to apply this knowledge to the specific needs of defense-related projects.Duties and responsibilities include:Designing and developing defence and space system architecture including developing requirements using a systems engineering approachAct as the Engineering Manager across the full delivery lifecycle (ie requirements to operational handover) over complex nuclear/space projects.Ability to manage engineering solutions with values ranging from £0.5M to £200M+ client based CAPEXConducting system-level analysis to ensure that defense systems meet performance, reliability, and safety standardsTesting and evaluating defence and/or system functionality under various operational conditionsIdentifying and resolving system defects, vulnerabilities, and inefficienciesCollaborating with other engineers, technicians and clients to integrate and optimise system componentsProviding technical documentation for system designs, test results, and operational proceduresStaying current with advancements in defence and space technology and engineering practices including UK and international engineering standardsEnsuring that nuclear defence and space systems comply with all relevant governmental and in country regulationsConducting training sessions for system users and operators, as neededSupporting the procurement of materials and components required for system development and maintenanceManage system requirements and derived requirements to ensure the delivery of production systems that are compatible with the defined system architecture.Guide system development and implementation planning through assessment or preparation of system engineering management plans and system integration and test plans.Interact with the Government/Associated agencies regarding Systems Engineering technical considerations and for associated problems, issues, or conflicts.Ensure the logical and systematic conversion of customer or product requirements into total systems solutions that acknowledge technical, schedule, and cost constraints.Profile Duties and responsibilities continued:Conducting training sessions for system users and operators, as neededSupporting the procurement of materials and components required for system development and maintenanceManage system requirements and derived requirements to ensure the delivery of production systems that are compatible with the defined system architecture.Guide system development and implementation planning through assessment or preparation of system engineering management plans and system integration and test plans.Interact with the Government/Associated agencies regarding Systems Engineering technical considerations and for associated problems, issues, or conflicts.Ensure the logical and systematic conversion of customer or product requirements into total systems solutions that acknowledge technical, schedule, and cost constraints.Perform risk identification, gap assessment and mitigation planning.Oversight of solutions in terms of system verification, validation, and testing.Provide underpinning engineering evidence or expert advise to underpin regulatory aspects using probabilistic and deterministic evidenceRoot cause analysis (RCA) including HAZID, HAZANS, HAZOPs and human factorsResponsible for co-ordinating through life maintenance strategies and effectivenessAct as technical mentor to support the development of staff either directly or indirectly with subject matter skillsQualifications and Experience10 years + proven demonstrable work experience as an Engineering Manager Systems Engineer or a similar role within a highly regulated nuclear environmentExperience in Nuclear/Defence System Design and standards.Excellent knowledge of engineering delivery, system modeling, simulations, and risk analysis.Experience in system verification, validation, and testing.Ability to understand and analyse complex technical requirements.Proficiency in system/engineering tools.Equivalent experience or technical qualification, ie apprenticeship/BSc degree in a technical engineering discipline Engineering, Computer Science, or a relevant fieldMust be willing to obtain or transfer a minimum of SC clearance and there only British Nationals or Citizen are able to apply for this role• 25 days annual leave per year rising by 1 day for every 2 years worked (max 30 days)• 8% employer pension contribution with employee 1% contribution (salary sacrifice)• Individual and family private health care• Dental insurance for individual• Cashplan – Level 2 cover• Life assurance (4x salary)• Employee assistance programme (EAP)• Income Protection• Professional Body Membership• Tusker Electric car scheme (salary sacrifice)• Cycle to Work scheme (salary sacrifice)• Babbel – learn a new language• Generous family leave – Maternity and paternity 6 months full pay and 6 months half payJob location Job location United Kingdom, CranfieldJob location (site) CranfieldTravel 25%Job family StandardMinimum level of education required BachelorMinimum level of experience required Early careerExtra informations Background checking required ? YesGeneral information Legal company Framatome is an international leader in nuclear energy recognized for its innovative, digital and value added solutions for the global nuclear fleet. With worldwide expertise and a proven track record for reliability and performance, the company designs, services and installs components, fuel, and instrumentation and control systems for nuclear power plants. Its more than 20 000 employees work every day to help Framatome\’s customers supply ever cleaner, safer and more economical low-carbon energy. Visit us at www.framatome.com, and follow us on Twitter: @Framatome_ and LinkedIn: Framatome.Framatome is owned by the EDF Group (80.5%) and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI – 19.5%). Legal company Framatome is an international leader in nuclear energy recognized for its innovative, digital and value added solutions for the global nuclear fleet. With worldwide expertise and a proven track record for reliability and performance, the company designs, services and installs components, fuel, and instrumentation and control systems for nuclear power plants. Its more than 20 000 employees work every day to help Framatome\’s customers supply ever cleaner, safer and more economical low-carbon energy. Visit us at www.framatome.com, and follow us on Twitter: @Framatome_ and LinkedIn: Framatome.Framatome is owned by the EDF Group (80.5%) and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI – 19.5%).Reference number 2025-22867 Reference number 2025-22867Publication date 8/21/2025You may be interested in these job openings#J-18808-Ljbffr

Principal Systems Engineer employer: Framatome

Framatome is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in the heart of the UK's nuclear energy sector. With a strong commitment to employee growth, we provide extensive benefits including generous annual leave, private healthcare, and professional development opportunities, all while fostering a collaborative culture that values innovation and excellence. Join us in Cranfield, where your contributions will directly impact the safety and performance of nuclear systems, and be part of a team dedicated to advancing sustainable energy solutions.
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Contact Detail:

Framatome Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Principal Systems Engineer

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with the specific requirements of the nuclear defence and space industry. Understanding military and European/UK Space Agency standards will give you an edge in discussions during interviews.

✨Tip Number 2

Network with professionals in the nuclear and defence sectors. Attend industry conferences or seminars to meet potential colleagues and learn about the latest trends, which can be beneficial when discussing your insights during the interview.

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare to discuss your experience with system verification, validation, and testing. Be ready to provide examples of how you've successfully managed complex projects, as this will demonstrate your capability to handle the responsibilities of the role.

✨Tip Number 4

Stay updated on advancements in defence and space technology. Being knowledgeable about current innovations will not only impress your interviewers but also show your commitment to continuous learning in a rapidly evolving field.

We think you need these skills to ace Principal Systems Engineer

Systems Engineering
Defence and Space System Design
Engineering Management
Risk Analysis
System Verification and Validation
Technical Documentation
Requirements Management
Problem-Solving Skills
Collaboration and Teamwork
Attention to Detail
Lifecycle Management
Root Cause Analysis (RCA)
Knowledge of Nuclear Standards
Proficiency in Engineering Tools
Communication Skills

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in systems engineering, particularly within the nuclear or defence sectors. Emphasise your understanding of engineering principles and any specific projects that align with the job description.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that directly addresses the responsibilities and qualifications outlined in the job description. Use specific examples from your past work to demonstrate how you meet the requirements, especially in system design and project management.

Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Clearly list your qualifications, including any degrees or certifications related to engineering, computer science, or relevant fields. Mention your experience with system modelling, simulations, and risk analysis, as these are crucial for the role.

Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills: In your application, provide examples of how you've identified and resolved complex technical issues in previous roles. This could include details about conducting risk assessments or performing root cause analysis, which are key aspects of the Principal Systems Engineer position.

How to prepare for a job interview at Framatome

✨Understand the Company and Its Values

Before your interview, take some time to research Framatome and its role in the nuclear energy market. Familiarise yourself with their innovative solutions and how they contribute to safety and performance in nuclear plants. This will help you align your answers with the company's values and demonstrate your genuine interest.

✨Showcase Your Technical Expertise

As a Principal Systems Engineer, you'll need to highlight your experience in nuclear/defence system design and standards. Be prepared to discuss specific projects where you've applied engineering principles, conducted system-level analysis, or managed complex projects. Use examples that showcase your problem-solving skills and technical knowledge.

✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions

Expect questions that assess your ability to handle real-world challenges in system development and implementation. Prepare to discuss how you would approach risk identification, gap assessment, and mitigation planning. Think of scenarios where you've successfully navigated similar challenges in your previous roles.

✨Demonstrate Leadership and Collaboration Skills

The role requires acting as an Engineering Manager and collaborating with various stakeholders. Be ready to share examples of how you've led teams, mentored colleagues, or worked with clients to achieve project goals. Highlight your communication skills and ability to integrate and optimise system components effectively.

Principal Systems Engineer
Framatome
Location: Cranfield

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