At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the design and integration of complex systems for cutting-edge technology projects.
- Company: Join a fast-growing engineering powerhouse focused on national security and resilience.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hands-on leadership role, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with a focus on user needs and collaborative culture.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in technology that protects people and critical assets.
- Qualifications: Experience in systems engineering and ability to work with diverse teams.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
We’re building the UK's next generation engineering powerhouse, providing critical technology that strengthens national security and resilience. We specialise in turning advances in sensing, AI, and communications into operational capability for the edge, where connectivity may be degraded or denied. Our work focuses on accelerating the deployment of technology, improving decision-making for frontline teams, and protecting people and critical assets in demanding environments. Headquartered in Bristol, Rowden employs around 160 people and operates over 20,000 square feet of engineering and manufacturing facilities. We have a growing international footprint and are one of Europe’s fastest-growing engineering businesses.
About the role
We’re looking for a Principal Systems Engineer to lead the design and integration of complex systems across our programmes. You’ll own major elements of a system - defining architecture, driving integration, and ensuring the capability works end-to-end. You’ll work closely with users, engineers and partners to de-risk delivery, resolve system challenges, and ensure solutions are technically robust and operationally effective. Across the business we’re working on challenges including soldier systems, C4I integration programmes, AI/ML capabilities, and new product development. These programmes combine software, hardware, networks and data, often operating in denied, disrupted or constrained environments.
We value practical engineering and sound judgement. You’ll use the right tools and level of process for the problem at hand - leveraging modern tooling and automation where it helps, while ensuring the right level of technical assurance. Experience working across waterfall, agile, iterative and spiral delivery approaches is important, as is the ability to work with a range of stakeholders across engineering teams, partners and users. This is a hands-on technical leadership role. You’ll guide engineering decisions, mentor other engineers, and take ownership of key parts of a programme while remaining close to the engineering work.
Our culture values clarity, pace and engineering judgement. We focus on user needs, communicate openly and work collaboratively to deliver meaningful capability. This role requires a minimum of 3 days per week on-site at our Bristol HQ. There will also be occasional travel to customer sites. Candidates must be eligible for SC clearance.
Principal Systems Engineer in Bristol employer: rowdentech
At Rowden, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, fostering a dynamic work culture that prioritises innovation and collaboration. Our Bristol headquarters offers a vibrant environment where employees can thrive, with ample opportunities for professional growth and development in cutting-edge engineering projects that contribute to national security. Join us to be part of a forward-thinking team that values clarity, pace, and sound engineering judgement, while making a meaningful impact in the field.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Systems Engineer in Bristol
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the industry. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to current employees at companies you’re interested in. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to job opportunities that aren’t even advertised!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! When you get the chance to meet potential employers, whether it’s through interviews or casual meet-ups, make sure to highlight your hands-on experience and technical expertise. Share specific examples of how you've tackled complex systems and delivered results.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! If you see a role that excites you on our website, don’t wait for the perfect moment. Apply right away and follow up with a quick email to express your enthusiasm. It shows initiative and keeps you on their radar!
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for the unexpected! In interviews, be ready to discuss not just your successes but also challenges you've faced in system integration. Employers love candidates who can demonstrate problem-solving skills and adaptability, especially in demanding environments.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Systems Engineer in Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Principal Systems Engineer role. Highlight your experience in system design, integration, and any relevant projects you've worked on that showcase your ability to tackle complex challenges.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about the role and how your background makes you a perfect fit for our team. Don’t forget to mention your hands-on experience and leadership skills!
Showcase Your Technical Skills:We want to see your technical prowess! Be sure to include specific examples of tools and methodologies you've used, especially in agile or waterfall environments. This will help us understand how you approach problem-solving and decision-making.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our engineering powerhouse!
How to prepare for a job interview at rowdentech
✨Know Your Systems Inside Out
As a Principal Systems Engineer, you'll need to demonstrate a deep understanding of system architecture and integration. Brush up on your knowledge of complex systems, especially those related to AI, C4I integration, and operational capabilities in challenging environments. Be ready to discuss specific projects where you've successfully led similar initiatives.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
This role is all about technical leadership, so be prepared to share examples of how you've guided engineering decisions and mentored other engineers. Highlight your experience in working with diverse teams and stakeholders, and how you’ve fostered collaboration to achieve project goals.
✨Be Ready for Technical Challenges
Expect to face questions that test your problem-solving skills in real-time. Prepare for scenarios where you might need to de-risk delivery or resolve system challenges. Think through your approach to using modern tooling and automation, and be ready to explain how you ensure technical robustness in your solutions.
✨Understand the Company Culture
Familiarise yourself with the company's values around clarity, pace, and engineering judgement. During the interview, communicate openly and show that you can work collaboratively. Discuss how you prioritise user needs and how this aligns with the company’s mission to strengthen national security and resilience.
