Principal Systems Engineer

Principal Systems Engineer

Full-Time 47241 - 59000 £ / year (est.) Home office (partial)
Hackajob Ltd

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead technical design and integration for advanced defence systems.
  • Company: Join BAE Systems, a leader in defence and aerospace innovation.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and career growth opportunities.
  • Other info: Inclusive workplace with a strong sense of purpose and community.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on technology that shapes a safer future.
  • Qualifications: Experience in network/software engineering and leadership skills required.

The predicted salary is between 47241 - 59000 £ per year.

Location: Frimley, Hybrid, 3 days on site weekly

We offer a range of hybrid and flexible working arrangements - please speak to your recruiter about the options for this particular role.

Salary: £47,241+ (Commensurate with skills and experience)

Who we are:

Join BAE Systems and you'll be part of something bigger. As a valued member of our global colleague network, you'll bring your unique skills and perspectives to help pioneer progress and protect what matters most. You'll be trusted to play your part in delivering the advanced, technology-led defence, aerospace and security solutions of tomorrow, shaping a safer future, for all of us.

What you'll be doing:

In this role, you will provide technical ownership of CCS design. As the Technical Lead for the project, you will support the Engineering manager to deliver in-service programmes and lead key design decisions. You will oversee project scope, manage design changes and work closely with stakeholders and suppliers to identify and address risks early. You will lead programme-level design reviews, coordinate stakeholders and manage design baselines while ensuring design governance is maintained and Certificates of Design are produced where required. You will also review and influence technical requirements and architecture to support effective system integration across sub-systems and specialist areas, while providing subject matter expertise in the integration, validation and verification of software intensive systems.

Core duties:

  • You'll have extensive experience in network or software engineering, ideally with a background in operations.
  • You'll have the ability to take the lead on technical matters and provide expert guidance.
  • You'll have Chartered Engineer status or be working towards it.
  • You'll have familiarity with DOORS and prior hands-on experience using it.
  • You'll have proven experience in change management processes.

Essential Skills:

  • The ability to lead on technical issues.
  • Chartered Engineer or willing to achieve Chartership status.
  • Specialist knowledge in Combat systems would be preferable if specific to Submarines.
  • Knowledge and prior experience of DOORS.
  • Experience in Change management.
  • Systems Engineering (INCOSE) qualifications (desirable).
  • Network or software engineering experience preferably ex-operator experience (desirable).

The In-Service Programme team:

You will be joining the In-Service Programme team, working on the V Class, where you'll thrive in a fast-paced environment, delivering high-quality results within tight enterprise timelines. As part of a medium-sized core team of 6-12, you'll also collaborate with a wider group of around 30, engaging with a broad stakeholder network. This role demands technical leadership, owning challenges, proactively solving problems, and working with the right stakeholders to drive solutions forward.

Why BAE Systems?

Here you'll build a career with purpose and limitless possibilities. With lifelong learning and meaningful work, this is a place where you can grow your career with confidence and be empowered to be your best. You'll be recognised for your contribution and enjoy rewards tailored to what's most important to you and your family, support for your financial and personal wellbeing, as well as a balanced lifestyle. In an environment embracing sustainable ways of working and with a strong sense of shared purpose, our supportive culture is a place you can feel you belong and proud of the difference you make.

A place where everyone can thrive:

We're committed to building an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and supported. We know that a diversity of backgrounds, perspectives and experiences strengthens our teams and is vital to the work we do.

Please be aware that many roles at BAE Systems are subject to both security and export control restrictions. These restrictions mean that factors such as your nationality, any nationalities you may have previously held, and your place of birth can restrict the roles you are eligible to perform within the organisation. All applicants must as a minimum achieve Baseline Personnel Security Standard. Many roles also require higher levels of National Security Vetting where applicants must typically have 5 to 10 years of continuous residency in the UK depending on the vetting level required for the role, to allow for meaningful security vetting checks.

Closing Date: 2nd August 2026

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible.

Principal Systems Engineer employer: Hackajob Ltd

At loveholidays, we pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative and innovative work culture that empowers our employees to thrive. As a Product Designer, you'll have the opportunity to contribute to meaningful projects that enhance customer experiences while enjoying a range of benefits, including professional development opportunities and a supportive team environment in a vibrant location. Join us in our mission to make travel accessible for everyone and be part of a company that values your creativity and input.

Hackajob Ltd

Contact Details:

Hackajob Ltd Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Principal Systems Engineer

Join Engineering Meetups!

Get yourself along to local engineering meetups or tech conferences. These are great places to connect with like-minded folks and industry leaders who might just have a lead on that full-time Principal Systems Engineer role you’re after at Hackajob Ltd.

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Engage with Online Communities

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Apply Through Company Websites

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We think you need these skills to ace Principal Systems Engineer

Technical Ownership
Design Management
Stakeholder Engagement
Risk Management
Design Governance
Systems Integration
Validation and Verification

Some tips for your application 🫡

Showcase Your Technical Expertise:When applying for an engineering role like Principal Systems Engineer, it’s essential to highlight your technical skills. Include any relevant software or tools you're proficient in on your CV—think CAD software, simulation tools, or programming languages. Don't skimp on any engineering projects you've worked on that demonstrate your ability to solve complex problems.

Focus on Results and Impact:In the engineering world, we love numbers and real-world impact. Quantify your achievements wherever possible—like reducing costs by a certain percentage, improving efficiency, or successfully completing a project ahead of schedule. This gives your future employers at Hackajob Ltd a clear picture of the value you can bring.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to express your passion for engineering and explain why you’re drawn to Hackajob Ltd specifically. Share what aspects of their work excite you and how your values align with theirs. This is your chance to show a bit of personality while keeping it professional!

Include Relevant Certifications:If you have any engineering certifications, especially ones that are recognised in your field, make sure to feature them prominently on your CV. They demonstrate not just your knowledge, but also your commitment to professional development, which is something we at StudySmarter value highly.

How to prepare for a job interview at Hackajob Ltd

Brush Up on Core Engineering Principles

Before heading into the interview with Hackajob Ltd, make sure you're solid on the fundamental engineering principles relevant to the role. Be ready to discuss concepts such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, or structural analysis, depending on the specifics mentioned in the job description. Don’t skip any hands-on projects or coursework; these can be excellent talking points!

Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills

Expect technical questions or case studies during your interview—after all, engineering is all about solving problems! Prepare a few examples of how you've tackled engineering challenges in the past, whether at university or in any practical experience. Practising with mock technical interviews can really help you articulate your thought process and solutions.

Relate Your Experience to the Role

In a full-time role, employers like Hackajob Ltd want to see that you can adapt and grow within their team. Be ready to discuss how your previous internships, projects, or studies relate directly to the work you'll be doing. Highlight specific experiences that showcase your collaborative skills and how you've successfully worked within a team environment.

Know Your Tools and Software

Most engineering roles require familiarity with specific tools and software. Prepare to talk about your proficiency with programmes like AutoCAD, MATLAB, or SolidWorks if they’re relevant to the role. Even better, have examples of projects where you’ve used these tools, as it'll demonstrate your hands-on experience and readiness for the job.