Principal Engineer (Contract) in London

Principal Engineer (Contract) in London

London Freelance 60000 - 80000 £ / year (est.) Home office (partial)
Leonardo

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Be the go-to expert for Windows-based enterprise infrastructures and support high-security systems.
  • Company: Join Leonardo, a global leader in defence and aerospace with a commitment to inclusivity.
  • Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, comprehensive health benefits, and access to 4,000+ online courses.
  • Other info: Hybrid working options available with excellent career development opportunities.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in defence while growing your career in a supportive environment.
  • Qualifications: Expertise in Windows Server environments and strong troubleshooting skills required.

The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.

This is an exciting opportunity to serve as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) in Windows-based enterprise infrastructures. You'll play a central role in the design, deployment, and support of high-security systems that underpin key defence and aerospace operations.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Provide expert-level troubleshooting for incidents escalated from 1st and 2nd line support, ensuring consistent and minimal disruption to services.
  • Deploy and integrate secure Windows Server environments (Active Directory, Group Policy, DNS, DHCP) using industry best practices.
  • Use monitoring tools to proactively optimize system performance and ensure high availability.
  • Participate in IT projects, ensuring infrastructure design meets both technical and business objectives.
  • Collaborate closely with network, security, and application teams to deliver reliable, secure IT services.

Technologies:

  • Microsoft: Windows Server 2019/2022/2025, Active Directory, Group Policy, DNS, DHCP, Exchange Server 2019, SQL Server, SharePoint 2019
  • VMware Cloud Foundation
  • Endpoint & Configuration: Windows 10 & 11, Microsoft Endpoint Configuration Manager (MECM)
  • Monitoring & Observability: Microsoft System Centre Operations Manager (SCOM), Microsoft Certificate Services, Hardware Security Modules (HSMs), and lifecycle key management

Security Clearance required.

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.

Benefits include:

  • Secure your Future: Benefit from our award-winning pension scheme with up to 15% employer contribution.
  • 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.
  • 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 part time opportunities, please talk to us about what might be possible for this role.

For a full list of our company benefits please visit our website. Headquartered in Italy, we employ over 53,000 people worldwide including 8,500 across 9 sites in the UK. At Leonardo we are committed to building an inclusive, accessible, and welcoming workplace.

Contract Type: Permanent

Hybrid Working: Yes

Principal Engineer (Contract) in London employer: Leonardo

Leonardo is an exceptional employer that prioritises employee experience and inclusion, offering a dynamic work culture in the heart of Edinburgh. With flexible hybrid working arrangements, generous leave policies, and comprehensive mental health support, employees are empowered to thrive both personally and professionally. The company fosters growth opportunities, ensuring that every team member can develop their skills and advance their careers in a supportive environment.

Leonardo

Contact Details:

Leonardo Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Principal Engineer (Contract) in London

Tap into Aerospace Networking Events

Freelancing in aerospace engineering? We should hit up industry conferences and local meetups where folks in the field gather. With events like the Farnborough International Airshow, you’ll meet potential clients who could use your skills, plus get insights on what’s hot in the industry!

Showcase Your Work Online

Build a solid public portfolio that highlights your previous projects and skills! Consider platforms like GitHub or even a personal website where you can showcase your work on aerospace projects. Let's make it easy for potential clients to see what you bring to the table.

Connect with Engineers on Platforms Like LinkedIn

We can really utilise platforms like LinkedIn to connect with other aerospace engineers and potential clients. Join aerospace groups, follow industry leaders, and engage with content to boost your visibility. It’s all about being present and making those connections that can land you your next gig!

Freelance Job Boards Are Your Best Mate

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We think you need these skills to ace Principal Engineer (Contract) in London

Windows Server 2019/2022/2025
Active Directory
Group Policy
DNS
DHCP
Exchange Server 2019
SQL Server

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Off Your Projects:When applying for a freelance aerospace engineering role, it's essential to have a killer portfolio that highlights your projects. Include detailed descriptions of past work, any specific technologies or methodologies you used, and the outcomes these projects achieved. This way, we can really see your skills in action!

Highlight Relevant Experience:In your application, emphasise any hands-on experience you have in aerospace engineering. This could include internships, academic projects, or freelance gigs—anything that showcases your technical skills and the softer skills like teamwork or problem-solving that are crucial in this field.

Be Clear About Your Availability:Since it's a freelance gig, be upfront about your availability in your application. Let us know your typical working hours, how many projects you can take on at once, and any other commitments you might have. This transparency helps us match your skills with our needs better!

Tailor Your Documents to Aerospace:Don’t forget to tailor your CV and cover letter specifically for the aerospace engineering field! Mention relevant technical skills, certifications, and any aerospace-specific software you’re proficient with. This not only highlights your qualifications but also shows us that you truly understand the industry.

How to prepare for a job interview at Leonardo

Showcase Your Engineering Portfolio

As a freelance aerospace engineer, it's crucial to have a solid portfolio that highlights your previous projects. Bring out those impressive designs, simulations, or prototypes you've worked on, showcasing your hands-on expertise in aerospace concepts.

Discuss Industry-Specific Software Skills

Make sure to brush up on the software tools commonly used in aerospace, like CATIA, SolidWorks, or MATLAB. Be ready to discuss how you've utilised these in your work, as the interviewers will be looking for your practical experience with these tools.

Prepare for Technical Problem-Solving Questions

Don't be surprised if you're asked to tackle a technical problem on the spot. Practice articulating your thought process clearly; this will show your problem-solving skills and adaptability in real-time engineering scenarios, which is vital in freelance projects.

Pitch Your Availability and Rates Confidently

In a freelance setup, it's all about making sure you're clear on your availability and the rates you charge for your expertise. Be ready to have that conversation upfront, as clients will want to know they can rely on you to meet their deadlines without compromising on quality.