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- Tasks: Lead integration, verification, and validation for complex defence projects.
- Company: Join a leading firm in the Defence and Cyber industry.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, allowances, bonuses, and potential remote work options.
- Why this job: Be part of impactful projects while mentoring future engineers in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Strong systems engineering background with a degree in Engineering, Physics, or Maths required.
- Other info: Candidates must meet SC/DV clearance requirements.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.
Location: Reading, Onsite
Job Type: Permanent
Salary: Competitive + Allowance + Bonus
Industry: Defence, Cyber
Overview
Our client is looking for an experienced Systems Engineer to lead integration, verification, and validation (IV&V) across complex, multi-discipline defence projects. You'll work from concept to delivery, ensuring robust, compliant systems through hands-on leadership and technical oversight.
Responsibilities of a Principal Systems Engineer:
- Own IV&V strategy, plans, and execution across projects
- Develop test rigs/fixtures and lead test campaigns (in-house & external)
- Drive quality and assurance from requirements through to acceptance
- Support qualification, safety, and security for test environments
- Mentor junior engineers and contribute to continuous process improvement
- Represent IV&V at reviews, audits, and customer events
What You’ll Need:
- Strong systems engineering background (hardware/software/firmware)
- Extensive V&V and test equipment experience
- Degree in Engineering, Physics, Maths, or related experience
- Familiarity with ISO 15288, 29119, or similar standards
Desirable:
- INCOSE ASEP/CSEP
- Experience with automated testing, scripting (Python, Bash, etc.)
- EMC, TEMPEST, or environmental testing exposure
Please note that candidates must meet relevant SC/DV clearance requirements.
Principal Systems Engineer (IVV) employer: Innovate Recruitment Ltd
Contact Detail:
Innovate Recruitment Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Systems Engineer (IVV)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific standards mentioned in the job description, such as ISO 15288 and 29119. Understanding these standards will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to quality and compliance in systems engineering.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight any experience you have with automated testing and scripting languages like Python or Bash. Be prepared to discuss specific projects where you've applied these skills, as they are highly relevant to the role and can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership and mentoring abilities, especially if you've led teams or projects in the past. This role requires hands-on leadership, so be ready to provide examples of how you've guided junior engineers or improved processes in previous positions.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the company’s recent projects and initiatives in the defence and cyber sectors. Being knowledgeable about their work will allow you to engage in meaningful conversations during interviews and demonstrate your genuine interest in the role and the organisation.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Systems Engineer (IVV)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure to thoroughly understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Principal Systems Engineer position. Tailor your application to highlight your relevant experience in integration, verification, and validation (IV&V) within defence projects.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your strong systems engineering background, particularly in hardware, software, and firmware. Mention any specific projects where you led IV&V strategies or developed test rigs, as this will demonstrate your capability for the role.
Showcase Technical Skills: Make sure to include your experience with V&V and test equipment, as well as any familiarity with standards like ISO 15288 or 29119. If you have skills in automated testing or scripting languages such as Python or Bash, be sure to mention these as they are desirable for the position.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any errors or inconsistencies. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for a role that involves quality assurance and compliance.
How to prepare for a job interview at Innovate Recruitment Ltd
✨Showcase Your Technical Expertise
As a Principal Systems Engineer, you'll need to demonstrate your strong systems engineering background. Be prepared to discuss specific projects where you've led IV&V efforts and how you ensured compliance with standards like ISO 15288 or 29119.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills in real-world scenarios. Think of examples where you've developed test rigs or led test campaigns, and be ready to explain your thought process and the outcomes.
✨Highlight Leadership and Mentoring Experience
Since the role involves mentoring junior engineers, share experiences where you've guided team members or contributed to their professional development. This will show your capability in leading teams effectively.
✨Understand the Defence Industry Context
Familiarise yourself with current trends and challenges in the defence and cyber sectors. Being knowledgeable about these areas will help you engage in meaningful discussions and demonstrate your commitment to the industry.
