About the Role
We are seeking a highly experienced Senior Systems Engineer to join our growing STEP programme, playing a pivotal role in delivering complex, high‑impact engineering outcomes. In this role you will take full ownership of systems engineering delivery at work‑package level, combining deep technical expertise with strong leadership capability.
Responsibilities
- Delivery Leadership – Own and lead the end‑to‑end delivery of systems engineering work packages, including resource allocation and budget accountability; ensure delivery of assured products and services aligned to scope, quality, schedule, and cost; plan, track, and manage delivery, resolving technical and programme issues proactively; collaborate across multidisciplinary teams, partners, and suppliers.
- Technical Authority – Act as the systems engineering technical authority for work packages, providing clear technical direction, resolving complex decisions and trade‑offs, and ensuring consistent application of systems engineering principles, standards, and lifecycle practices.
- Integration & Risk Management – Coordinate and integrate concurrent workstreams, contributors, and interfaces; identify and manage technical assumptions, dependencies, and risks; maintain alignment and technical integrity across all activities.
- Leadership & Development – Provide technical leadership, coaching, and mentoring to engineers; champion best practice in systems engineering and drive continuous improvement in tools, processes, and ways of working; engage stakeholders effectively to communicate progress and manage expectations.
- Culture & Leadership Mindset – Embody a strong leadership mindset, demonstrating integrity, professionalism, and ethical behaviour; foster an inclusive, collaborative, high‑performing team environment; align to organisational values and the Seven Principles of Public Life.
Qualifications
- Proven experience delivering complex systems engineering programmes or work packages.
- Strong technical background across the systems engineering lifecycle.
- Demonstrated ability to lead teams, influence stakeholders, and manage delivery challenges.
- Experience balancing technical authority with collaborative leadership.
- Excellent problem‑solving and decision‑making skills.
- Passion for mentoring others and improving engineering excellence.
- A relevant degree in a recognised STEM subject.
- Professional registration as a Chartered Engineer with a recognised institution (e.g., IfSE, IET, IMechE).
- Extensive knowledge of Systems Engineering and practical application.
- Experience managing the delivery of systems engineering scope through teams.
- Evidence of operating as a technical authority for systems engineering deliverables.
- Experience coaching and mentoring junior team members.
- Exemplary communication with strong ability to influence diverse stakeholders.
- Security clearance or willingness to obtain BPSS and potentially SC clearance.
Benefits
- Salary of £58,320 plus a specialist allowance of £6,500.
- Outstanding pension scheme.
- Corporate bonus scheme up to 7% and relocation allowance (if eligible).
- Generous annual leave allowance – 25 days, 3 days Christmas closure, 2.5 privilege days, plus UK bank holidays.
- Flexible working options, including family‑friendly policies.
- Employee assistance programme and trained Mental Health First Aiders.
- Wide range of career development opportunities.
- Support for flexible working and onsite working (3 days per week).
Why Join Us?
- Be part of a cutting‑edge programme shaping the future of engineering.
- Work on complex, meaningful challenges with real‑world impact.
- Collaborate with leading experts across industry and academia.
- Opportunities for career growth, leadership development, and innovation.
Equality and Diversity
We welcome applications from under‑represented groups, particularly women in STEM, people of black and ethnic minority backgrounds, and people with disabilities. We are committed to supporting diversity and promoting an inclusive environment.