At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead systems engineering projects that shape the future of defence technology.
- Company: Join Northrop Grumman, a leader in innovative defence solutions.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, private healthcare, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace with diverse roles and structured mentoring.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on national security while growing your career.
- Qualifications: Degree in engineering and 3-5 years' experience in systems engineering required.
The predicted salary is between 58000 - 72000 £ per year.
UK CITIZENSHIP REQUIRED FOR THIS POSITION: Yes
RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be available
TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the Time
Location: New Malden (hybrid working)
Salary: 58,000 - 72,000
What’s Your Possible?
At Northrop Grumman UK, you will help shape the technology and solutions of tomorrow. As part of our team, you will contribute to solving some of the world’s most complex challenges. This is what we call Defining Possible. This mindset powers our innovation, our impact, and your career development.
The Opportunity
This is more than just a job; it’s a mission. As a Systems Engineer, you will play a central role in delivering Systems Engineering activities across key defence programmes. You will support the full engineering lifecycle, from understanding customer needs through to system design, integration, acceptance and delivery. You’ll work within our Defence Systems Engineering team, supporting programmes critical to UK national security, including multi‑domain command and control systems used across the Royal Navy and internationally. Your expertise will directly influence technical quality, design assurance and programme success.
What You Will Do
- Lead, conduct and deliver Systems Engineering work packages across the project lifecycle.
- Produce and review technical documentation in line with programme schedules.
- Plan, prepare and deliver key design reviews including SRR, PDR and CDR.
- Manage technical aspects of suppliers, ensuring alignment with requirements and design baselines.
- Review technical documentation from customers and suppliers, providing challenge and assurance.
- Integrate effectively with Hardware, Mechanical, Software, V&V, ILS, Cybersecurity and Safety teams.
- Provide technical leadership to deliver work packages on time, to cost and quality.
- Support risk management, opportunity assessments, bids, proposals and estimation activities.
What We’re Looking For
Essential- Degree in Systems, Software, Electrical Engineering or a related field.
- 3–5 years’ experience in systems engineering within defence, maritime, aerospace or a regulated environment.
- Experience of system requirements, design, integration, acceptance and analysis.
- Knowledge of control systems, PLC/SCADA and operational technology.
- Experience with Model‑Based Design and tools such as Enterprise Architect.
- Strong interpersonal and stakeholder skills with the ability to influence at all levels.
- Experience in requirements management tools such as DOORS.
- Understanding of the marine environment, environmental standards and safety‑related systems.
- Knowledge of V&V activities including environmental and EMC testing.
- INCOSE ASE or CSEP accreditation.
If you feel inspired by the role but don’t meet every requirement, we encourage you to apply.
Security Clearance
Due to the nature of our work, you must meet the nationality and residency requirements for UK Security Check (SC) clearance. You must be able to gain and maintain SC clearance.
For questions, contact our recruitment team at talentenquiries@uk.ngc.com
Benefits
- Flexible and hybrid working options, including a compressed fortnight with every other Friday off
- Private healthcare
- Cash health plan
- Holiday buy and sell options
- Career development, mentoring and professional training
- Performance‑related bonuses
Why Join Us?
- A Mission to Believe In: Work on technology that protects national security and supports operations across land, sea, air, space and cyberspace.
- A Place to Belong and Thrive: Bring your authentic self to work and join an inclusive community supported by employee networks and partnerships across defence, engineering and wellbeing.
- Your Career, Your Way: Shape your career journey with diverse roles, structured development, mentoring and opportunities to grow your expertise.
Ready to Apply?
- Yes – Submit your application online.
- Possibly – Contact our team for more information: talentenquiries@uk.ngc.com
- Not right now – Explore other opportunities across Northrop Grumman UK. We are growing nationwide.
Northrop Grumman is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce, and encourages individuals from all backgrounds and all abilities to apply and consider becoming a part of our diverse and inclusive workforce.
Summary
Location: United Kingdom-New Malden
Type: Full time
Principal Systems Engineer employer: Northrop Grumman
At Northrop Grumman UK, we are not just offering a job; we are providing a mission-driven environment where innovation meets purpose. As a Project Manager in our Cyber & Intelligence business, you will thrive in a collaborative culture that values every voice and supports your career growth through mentorship and diverse opportunities. With flexible working options, private healthcare, and a commitment to employee wellbeing, you will be part of a team making a real-world impact while enjoying a fulfilling work-life balance.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Systems Engineer
✨Join Engineering Meetups!
Get yourself along to local engineering meetups or tech conferences. These are great places to connect with like-minded folks and industry leaders who might just have a lead on that full-time Principal Systems Engineer role you’re after at Northrop Grumman.
✨Show Off Your Projects!
Don’t be shy about showcasing your engineering projects. Whether it’s a funky app, a mechanical design, or a complex algorithm, having a solid portfolio on platforms like GitHub can really make you stand out. Plus, it gives potential employers at Northrop Grumman a taste of what you can bring to the table!
✨Engage with Online Communities
Dive into engineering forums and online communities, like Reddit or specific engineering Discord channels. Sharing your insights, asking questions, and being active can help you build connections that might lead to job opportunities at Northrop Grumman.
✨Apply Through Company Websites
When you spot a role like Principal Systems Engineer at Northrop Grumman, apply directly through their website. Often, this can show your genuine interest in the company and you might just get noticed quicker than via typical job boards.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Systems Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Expertise:When applying for an engineering role like Principal Systems Engineer, it’s essential to highlight your technical skills. Include any relevant software or tools you're proficient in on your CV—think CAD software, simulation tools, or programming languages. Don't skimp on any engineering projects you've worked on that demonstrate your ability to solve complex problems.
Focus on Results and Impact:In the engineering world, we love numbers and real-world impact. Quantify your achievements wherever possible—like reducing costs by a certain percentage, improving efficiency, or successfully completing a project ahead of schedule. This gives your future employers at Northrop Grumman a clear picture of the value you can bring.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to express your passion for engineering and explain why you’re drawn to Northrop Grumman specifically. Share what aspects of their work excite you and how your values align with theirs. This is your chance to show a bit of personality while keeping it professional!
Include Relevant Certifications:If you have any engineering certifications, especially ones that are recognised in your field, make sure to feature them prominently on your CV. They demonstrate not just your knowledge, but also your commitment to professional development, which is something we at StudySmarter value highly.
How to prepare for a job interview at Northrop Grumman
✨Brush Up on Core Engineering Principles
Before heading into the interview with Northrop Grumman, make sure you're solid on the fundamental engineering principles relevant to the role. Be ready to discuss concepts such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, or structural analysis, depending on the specifics mentioned in the job description. Don’t skip any hands-on projects or coursework; these can be excellent talking points!
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
Expect technical questions or case studies during your interview—after all, engineering is all about solving problems! Prepare a few examples of how you've tackled engineering challenges in the past, whether at university or in any practical experience. Practising with mock technical interviews can really help you articulate your thought process and solutions.
✨Relate Your Experience to the Role
In a full-time role, employers like Northrop Grumman want to see that you can adapt and grow within their team. Be ready to discuss how your previous internships, projects, or studies relate directly to the work you'll be doing. Highlight specific experiences that showcase your collaborative skills and how you've successfully worked within a team environment.
✨Know Your Tools and Software
Most engineering roles require familiarity with specific tools and software. Prepare to talk about your proficiency with programmes like AutoCAD, MATLAB, or SolidWorks if they’re relevant to the role. Even better, have examples of projects where you’ve used these tools, as it'll demonstrate your hands-on experience and readiness for the job.
