Systems Engineer

We’re seeking a practicing and experienced Systems Engineer to join our world-leading Time and Frequency Department. We maintain and develop the UK’s National Time Scale, UTC (NPL), and are currently developing a new resilient Time Scale that will underpin Digital Infrastructure. You will be joining at an exciting time, as we drive the maturation of our systems and network engineering capabilities, and lead the architecture and deployment of NPL’s time scale. This is a pivotal role in shaping technical strategy, advancing world-class engineering practices, and delivering solutions that underpin the UK’s time and frequency infrastructure.

As Systems Engineer, you’ll enjoy working alongside prominent Scientists and Engineers to bring a systems approach to a range of research projects. You will have a pivotal role in setting the new standards for frequency measurements by designing, developing and implementing the systems required to launch timing services from our site in Teddington, London.

Key responsibilities:

• Work with scientists and software developers to develop verification and validation plans and test cases, carry out tests and provide reports;
• Work at various stages of the product lifecycle, with the ability to assess and effectively communicate risks;
• Documentation of system’s analysis, synthesis, and test results, according to NPL’s internal Engineering process, and on time & budget;
• Explaining complex technical concepts and tech advisory to internal and external stakeholders from technical and non-technical backgrounds;
• Contributing to mature the NPL Systems Engineering processes within the Time & Frequency department.

Reporting and requirements:

Reporting to a Group Leader, you will enjoy responsibility for the development of systems plans to time, quality and cost. You will utilise analytical and technical skills to contribute to the design, implementation, and monitoring of systems to push the boundaries of measurement accuracy and stability.

Essential qualifications and experience:

• A relevant degree (or equivalent experience) in Engineering (such as Systems, Optical, Mechanical, Electronics or Software Engineering), or closely-related subject area (e.g. Physics)
• Proven industry systems engineering experience with the design of complex systems
• Experience in developing and building instrumentation systems

Desirable:

• Aware of different development methodologies (such as agile, or iterative)
• Interest in Physics, measurements, and communications, for example:

• Time and frequency measurement and time scales
• Real-time monitoring and control of electronic hardware
• Satellite communication, optical fibre and GNSS-based systems

Security and eligibility:

We actively recruit citizens of all backgrounds, but the nature of our work in specific departments means that nationality, residency and security requirements can be more tightly defined than others. You will be asked about this throughout the recruitment process. To work at NPL, you will need to obtain BPSS security clearance. However, to work in this role in the Time & Frequency department, you will need to have an SC clearance with no restrictions, or you must have the ability to obtain an SC clearance.

Note: Applications will be reviewed, and interviews conducted throughout the duration of this advert therefore we may at any time bring the closing date forward. We encourage all interested applicants to apply as soon as practical.