Principal Security Engineer

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. General Dynamics in St Leonards‑on‑Sea currently provide avionic mission computing systems for a wide range of military fast jets, helicopters, and UAVs. Recent success has resulted in General Dynamics developing the next generation of Advanced High Performance, Safety Critical Mission Computer Systems to meet the needs of latest platforms in development by several aircraft manufacturers. These Mission Computing Systems provide the functionality that integrates aircraft systems, sensor systems and stores management systems with the information and control systems required by the aircrew to meet the demanding operational needs of these aircraft.

Boost your career at the absolute frontier of aerospace technology by joining our TEMPEST team, helping to deliver the UK’s 6th generation fighter aircraft. As an engineer on this critical multi‑national project, you will actively design, build, and integrate the next generation of combat air capability. You will collaborate with industry‑leading minds to pioneer breakthroughs in artificial intelligence, digital model‑based engineering, and truly next‑generation computing. This is a rare opportunity to see your innovations directly shape the future of global defence, work with cutting‑edge technologies, and fast‑track your professional development on one of the most ambitious engineering ventures of the century.

In this role you will:

• Lead security architecture for GCAP mission systems
• Define security requirements and secure‑by‑design approaches
• Lead threat modelling, risk assessment and accreditation activities
• Provide technical leadership across cyber resilience and secure mission computing
• Develop technologies that will shape combat aviation for decades to come
• Work with world‑leading engineers across industry, government and academia
• Contribute to sovereign UK defence capability and international collaboration

Qualifications:

• Degree level education or equivalent in a relevant engineering discipline
• Knowledge of Secure by Design and product security standards
• Security architecture and cryptography expertise
• Demonstrated high levels of motivation, integrity, and professionalism
• Flexibility, innovation, and commitment to delivery in fast‑paced environment
• Experience working with or familiarity with AI/ML models is preferred

Additional Information:

This role has a salary of between £59,200 and £80,000 plus our flexible benefits package. We are open to this role being spent with time working from home and in the office (hybrid – typically 3 days working in office) on a weekly basis or fully in our offices. 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 recognised and rewarded with flexible benefits.

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. We are a Disability Confident Employer, providing interview adjustments to disabled applicants. 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!