At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the design of advanced defence systems and solve complex engineering challenges.
- Company: Join General Dynamics Mission Systems, a leader in innovative defence technology.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, compressed hours, and personalised career development.
- Other info: Diverse workplace with a commitment to inclusion and personal growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in defence while mentoring future engineers and driving innovation.
- Qualifications: Extensive systems engineering experience and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 59200 - 80000 £ per year.
Company Description
General Dynamics Mission Systems engineers a diverse portfolio of high technology solutions, products and services that enable customers to successfully execute missions across all domains of operation. With a global team of more than 13,000 top professionals, we partner with the best in industry to expand the bounds of innovation in the defence and scientific arenas. In the UK, we are leading the way in avionics and communication systems. Given the nature of our work and who we are, we value trust, honesty, alignment and transparency.
Job Description
As a Principal Systems Design Engineer, you will be a key engineering lead shaping the architecture and design of advanced C4I systems for critical defence programmes. This role seeks leadership elements for an experienced systems engineer who thrives on solving complex challenges, influencing strategy, and mentoring others. You will drive innovation, ensure technical excellence, and deliver integrated solutions that meet demanding operational requirements.
- Lead system architecture and design for complex, mission-critical defence systems, translating operational concepts into robust solutions.
- Define and implement technical strategy, ensuring alignment with programme objectives and future capability needs.
- Guide design reviews and ensure technical integrity throughout the lifecycle, including integration of specialty disciplines (Safety, Security, Human Factors, ILS, Training).
- Conduct trade studies, performance modelling, and evaluate emerging technologies to inform strategic decisions.
- Mentor junior engineers and engage with senior stakeholders, including MoD representatives, to influence programme-level decisions.
Qualifications
Essential:
- Extensive experience in systems engineering and system design leadership.
- Proven ability to resolve complex design challenges and make strategic trade-offs.
- Strong track record of leading cross-functional teams and engaging specialist disciplines.
- Expertise in structured design methods and requirements management.
- Exceptional communication skills—able to present confidently at senior-level reviews.
- Skilled in producing high-quality technical documentation and delivering to schedule.
- Proficiency in Microsoft tools (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Visio).
- Proven track record in system architecture and design for complex, mission-critical systems.
- Experience across the full engineering lifecycle (requirements, design, integration, verification).
Desirable:
- Deep understanding of network architectures, OSI model, and open standards.
- Familiarity with Open and Military Standards and compliance frameworks.
- Experience with Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE), SysML and structured design methodologies.
- Knowledge of TOGAF or NATO Architecture Framework.
- Awareness of Safety, Security, and ILS processes within defence programmes.
Additional Information
Salary for this position is £59,200 to £80,000, depending on experience plus our excellent flexible benefits package. We offer hybrid working - for this role ideally we are looking for an average of 2 days per week per month on site. We pride ourselves in being a great place to work with a shared sense of purpose, offering impressive benefits: A compressed nine-day fortnight and compressed hours - which means every other Friday off. A personalized career development plan, alongside regular progress reviews - supporting and valuing your progression within the Company. A flexible working environment where your contributions are recognized and rewarded with flexible benefits. We believe in maintaining a diverse workplace - inclusive of beliefs, cultural background, job experiences, thoughts and ideas. If who we are and what we do resonates with you, we welcome you to join our inclusive team!
Our success is fuelled by our colleagues and the wide variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills they bring to the Company. We are a Disability Confident Employer, as such we offer an interview to disabled people who meet the minimum criteria for the job. Please email [email protected] if you would like your application to be considered under the DC Scheme. All successful/appointed applicants must be able to obtain a level of UK Security clearance that is appropriate for the role and undertake suitable Right to work checks. Every application matters to us. We want you to know that each application we receive is reviewed by a real person—not just an algorithm. Our screening questions are also carefully considered to help us understand your experience and fit for the role. We appreciate the time you take to apply.
Principal System Design Engineer in Oakdale employer: General Dynamics Missions System International
General Dynamics Missions System International is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Wales where innovation and collaboration thrive. With a strong focus on employee growth through personalized career development plans and the flexibility of hybrid working, team members enjoy a balanced work-life experience, complemented by unique benefits like a compressed nine-day fortnight. Join us to lead impactful projects while being part of a supportive and forward-thinking engineering team.
Contact Details:
General Dynamics Missions System International Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal System Design Engineer in Oakdale
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees at General Dynamics Mission Systems on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral, which can really boost your chances.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into their projects. Familiarise yourself with their C4I systems and recent innovations. Showing that you know your stuff will impress the hiring team and demonstrate your genuine interest.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! As a Principal Systems Design Engineer, you'll need to present ideas clearly. Try explaining complex concepts to a friend or family member to sharpen your ability to convey technical information simply.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at General Dynamics Mission Systems.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal System Design Engineer in Oakdale
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Principal Systems Design Engineer role. Highlight your experience in systems engineering and leadership, and don’t forget to mention any relevant projects that showcase your ability to solve complex challenges.
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since exceptional communication is key for this role, ensure your written application reflects clarity and confidence. Use straightforward language and structure your documents well, making it easy for us to see your qualifications at a glance.
Highlight Technical Expertise:Be sure to emphasise your technical skills, especially in system architecture and design. Mention any experience with structured design methods or tools like Microsoft Visio, as these are crucial for the position and will catch our eye.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. This way, we can ensure your application is reviewed by the right people and you’ll be one step closer to joining our innovative team!
How to prepare for a job interview at General Dynamics Missions System International
✨Know Your Systems Inside Out
As a Principal Systems Design Engineer, you’ll need to demonstrate your extensive experience in systems engineering. Brush up on your knowledge of C4I systems and be ready to discuss how you've tackled complex design challenges in the past. This will show your potential employer that you can lead system architecture effectively.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
This role requires someone who can influence strategy and mentor others. Prepare examples of how you've led cross-functional teams and engaged with senior stakeholders. Highlight any experiences where you’ve successfully guided design reviews or made strategic trade-offs.
✨Communicate with Confidence
Exceptional communication skills are essential for this position. Practice presenting your ideas clearly and confidently, especially when discussing technical concepts. Be prepared to explain your thought process during design decisions and how you ensure technical integrity throughout the lifecycle.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Relevant Standards
Understanding network architectures and compliance frameworks is crucial. Before the interview, review Open and Military Standards, as well as Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) methodologies. Being able to discuss these topics will demonstrate your readiness to tackle the demands of the role.
