b Overview /b p In this strategic leadership role you guide the UK’s technical coherence for the GCAP DEOS Sensor Head, reporting to the GCAP DEOS Chief Engineer and International SDA. You drive system architecture, baseline definition, and long-term technical strategy across a complex, multi-national programme. You shape integration across opto-mechanical, electrical, and avionics domains while engaging national stakeholders. This role offers high-impact influence on UK capabilities, export potential, and action within a world-class defence engineering team. /p b Pay / Benefits /b ul li pension scheme with employer contribution /li li flexible working and hybrid options /li li generous leave and up to 12 flexi-days /li li mental health support and financial advice /li li 4,000+ online courses via Coursera and LinkedIn Learning /li li Refer a friend and flexible benefits package /li /ul b Responsibilities /b ul li Act as UK National Design Authority for GCAP DEOS Sensor Head under the GCAP DEOS Chief Engineer and International SDA /li li Lead Sensor Head Maturation Programme from prototypes through pre-production models to production /li li Ensure solutions meet UK national objectives and aspirations /li li Oversee system and physical architecture, aligning opto-mechanical design with multifunction capability /li li Define the technical baseline and embody the design solution /li li Drive systems engineering activities: design development, verification, validation, qualification, and change management /li li Lead concept generation, solution development, and system lifecycle trade studies /li li Provide technical governance and approve key artifacts including compliance matrices and qualification evidence /li li Engage with national stakeholders across government, industry partners, and customers /li li Ensure integration across optical, mechanical, hardware, and electro-mechanical subsystems /li li Support safety, security, and airworthiness activities /li li Lead technical reviews and enable robust system-level decision making /li /ul b Key requirements /b ul li Extensive experience in complex systems engineering, ideally in electro-optics, sensing, or advanced electronic systems /li li Proven system architecture leadership and design authority experience /li li Strong background in concept development and advanced system design /li li Ability to operate at programme and national stakeholder level /li li Excellent communication, leadership, and decision‑making skills /li li Experience within multi-partner defence programmes; familiarity with DOORS/Teamcenter (desirable) /li li Willingness to learn and adapt; good attitude emphasized /li /ul ul li excellent communication /li li leadership /li li decision‑making /li li complex systems engineering /li li system architecture leadership /li li opto-mechanical integration /li /ul
Chief Engineer employer: Leonardo DRS
Leonardo is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where innovation meets collaboration. As a Campaign Manager, you'll thrive in a culture that prioritises employee wellbeing and professional growth, supported by comprehensive benefits including an award-winning pension scheme and access to over 4,000 online courses. With flexible working options and a commitment to inclusion, Leonardo empowers you to make a meaningful impact in the defence and aerospace sector while enjoying a fulfilling work-life balance.
