Senior Systems Engineer - SATCOM in Southampton

Typical work you might be involved in:

• Developing digital twins to simulate the end-to-end performance of SATCOM links
• Investigating the application of new technology and performing technology de-risking activities
• Engaging with customers and stakeholders to understand their needs and to present results and findings for early feedback and acceptance
• Technical management of work packages with internal and external suppliers and partners
• Develop models of RF components and make trade off decisions that impact system performance
• Design and prototype baseband processing and incorporate into performance models
• Design and prototype algorithms in MATLAB or Python for control of antennas and communications links
• Create models to understand RF interference and out of band emissions
• Develop operational scenarios and use cases to draw out functional system requirements
• Capturing of system architecture and decomposing requirements according to the design
• Developing test and integration plans
• Capturing environmental and regulatory requirements

What you’ll bring:

• Graduate degree in relevant engineering, mathematics or related scientific discipline
• Previous experience of digital wireless communications systems, ideally SATCOM
• Knowledge of system engineering principles and model-based systems engineering
• Experience across all stages of the engineering lifecycle with a focus on delivery
• Ability to produce detailed technical reports
• Good interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate ideas to varied audiences
• An interest in technology and a desire to learn

Ideally previous experience in one or more of:

• Digital signal processing and waveform development
• Mission modelling tools, e.g. Ansys STK
• RF modelling and simulation tools, e.g. Simulink or Keysight
• IP Networks and Network Security
• MATLAB and/or Python
• Requirements authoring
• Cameo Systems Modeller and/or DOORS
• Mission/Operational Analysis and Scenario modelling
• Test and Acceptance planning and execution
• Systems integration and acceptance
• Working with international partners

This is not an exhaustive list, and we are keen to hear from you even if you might not have experience in all the above. The most important skill is a good attitude and willingness to learn.

Security Clearance: This role is subject to pre-employment screening in line with the UK Government’s Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS). An additional range of Personnel Security Controls referred to as National Security Vetting (NSV) may apply, this could include meeting the eligibility requirements for The Security Check (SC) or Developed Vetting (DV).

At Leonardo, our people are at the heart of everything we do. We offer a comprehensive, company-funded benefits package that supports your wellbeing, career development, and work–life balance. Whether you’re looking to grow professionally, care for your health, or plan for the future, we’re here to help you thrive.

• Time to Recharge: Enjoy generous leave with the opportunity to accrue up to 12 additional flexi-days each year.
• Secure your Future: Benefit from our award-winning pension scheme with up to 15% employer contribution.
• Your Wellbeing Matters: Free access to mental health support, financial advice, and employee-led networks championing inclusion and diversity.
• Rewarding Performance: All employees at management level and below are eligible for our bonus scheme.
• Never Stop Learning: Free access to 4,000+ online courses via Coursera and LinkedIn Learning.
• Refer a friend: Receive a financial reward through our referral programme.
• Tailored Perks: Spend up to £500 annually on flexible benefits including private healthcare, dental, family cover, tech & lifestyle discounts, gym memberships and more.
• Flexible working: Flexible hours with hybrid working options.

For a full list of our company benefits please visit our website. Leonardo is a global leader in Aerospace, Defence, and Security. Headquartered in Italy, we employ over 53,000 people worldwide including 8,500 across 9 sites in the UK. Our employees are not just part of a team—they are key contributors to shaping innovation, advancing technology, and enhancing global safety.

At Leonardo we are committed to building an inclusive, accessible, and welcoming workplace. We believe that a diverse workforce sparks creativity, drives innovation, and leads to better outcomes for our people and our customers. If you have any accessibility requirements to support you during the recruitment process, just let us know.

Be part of something bigger - apply now!

Primary Location: GB - Southampton

Contract Type: Permanent

Hybrid Working: Hybrid