At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead field test activities and execute complex integration and verification tests for missile defence technologies.
- Company: Join RTX, the world's largest aerospace and defence company with a mission to create a safer world.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, relocation assistance, health benefits, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with excellent career advancement opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in aerospace and defence while working with cutting-edge technology.
- Qualifications: Degree in STEM and 8+ years of relevant experience in systems integration and testing.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
The Systems Engineering & Test Capabilities team is seeking a highly motivated Principal Systems Engineer to lead the planning and execution of complex integration and verification test events supporting PATRIOT programs. The ideal candidate will bring demonstrated experience in system integration and testing. This role offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting‑edge missile defense technologies within a collaborative and innovative environment.
What You Will Do
- Lead field test activities for the System Integration, Verification, and Validation team, including event planning, assessing test requirements and methodology, executing test events, and generating CDRL reports.
- Define and execute test strategy by analyzing software implementation, hardware needs, and range test availability to establish a comprehensive test campaign.
- Support testing efforts by developing and implementing test plans and procedures, and performing integration and verification in both simulated and real‑world environments.
- Troubleshoot and analyze hardware, software, and system issues in real time and through detailed post‑test debugging and analysis.
- Drive performance improvements by collaborating across functions, tracking metrics, and documenting lessons learned to resolve system issues.
- Perform modeling and analysis using simulation tools to predict system performance and support verification and validation.
- Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to ensure seamless integration and system functionality.
- Document and communicate integration activities, execute plans, analyze data, verify requirements, and present results to Program Management, System Integration and Test leadership, and other stakeholders.
- Manage a small team of integration engineers to achieve execution objectives on schedule and within budget.
- Coordinate with the USG customer and supporting organizations to align scope, requirements, schedule, and necessary preparations for successful event execution.
- Coordinate with the RTX MCVC Range organization for location, asset, and staffing requirements.
- Support missions and test events by traveling as needed (up to 20%) to various RTX facilities, test sites, or to lead range support teams from Andover.
Qualifications You Must Have
- Typically requires a degree in Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) and a minimum of 8 years of prior relevant experience.
- Experience with systems software, hardware, requirements, integration, and/or system testing.
- Experience developing technical documentation, including test plans, procedures, and/or technical reports.
Qualifications We Prefer
- Experience with requirements management tools (e.g., DOORS) and configuration control.
- Hands‑on experience in integration labs, test facilities, and field verification.
- Experience with aircraft coordination and mission planning.
- Proficiency in MATLAB, Python, JavaScript, C/C++, or similar languages.
- Experience with project planning tools (Microsoft Project, JIRA), scheduling, WBS development, staffing planning, and small‑team management.
What We Offer
Our values drive our actions, behaviors, and performance with a vision for a safer, more connected world. At RTX we value: Safety, Trust, Respect, Accountability, Collaboration, and Innovation. Relocation assistance is available!
Principal Systems Engineer, Field Test Lead, Onsite in Andover employer: RTX
RTX is an exceptional employer that values innovation and collaboration, offering a dynamic work culture in the heart of Andover, UK. Employees benefit from competitive salaries, comprehensive growth opportunities, and a supportive environment that fosters professional development in the aerospace and defense sector. Join us to be part of a team that not only drives financial excellence but also contributes to cutting-edge advancements in technology.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Systems Engineer, Field Test Lead, Onsite in Andover
✨Join Aerospace Forums and Groups
Get involved in aerospace engineering forums and online communities, like the AIAA (American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics). It's a great way to meet industry peers and stay updated on job openings and trends in the field.
✨Attend Industry Conferences
Keep an eye on upcoming aerospace conferences and events where you can network with professionals and showcase your interest. Events like the Farnborough International Airshow are not just about flying machines; they're a goldmine for connections and potential job leads.
✨Spotlight Your Projects
Make sure to highlight any hands-on experience or projects on your portfolio that showcase your skills in aerospace engineering. Employers love seeing practical applications of theoretical knowledge. Show us what you've got!
✨Apply Directly on Company Websites
When you find companies you want to work for, head straight to their careers page to apply for full-time roles, like the one with RTX for a Principal Systems Engineer, Field Test Lead, Onsite. This often puts your application in front of the right people faster than just waiting for job boards!
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Systems Engineer, Field Test Lead, Onsite in Andover
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Technical Skills:When applying for the aerospace engineering role at RTX, make sure to highlight your technical expertise. Include specific software skills, like CAD tools or simulation software, and any relevant engineering projects you’ve worked on. This is your chance to really shine and showcase your engineering toolkit!
Don't Skip Your Projects!:Include a section in your CV dedicated to projects that demonstrate your problem-solving abilities in aerospace engineering. Whether it's a university project, an internship, or personal work, we love seeing how you’ve applied your skills in real-world scenarios. Make it clear what your role was and the impact of the project.
Show Your Passion in Your Cover Letter:At RTX, we're not just looking for skills – we want to know why you’re passionate about aerospace engineering. Use your cover letter to express what excites you about aviation technology and your career goals. Share any relevant experiences or inspirations that have led you to apply for this full-time position.
Tailor Your CV for Aerospace:Make sure your CV is specifically tailored to aerospace engineering. Focus on your education, any certifications, and your work experience, ensuring you highlight aspects that relate directly to the role. Don’t forget to mention any internships or apprenticeships that have given you hands-on experience.
How to prepare for a job interview at RTX
✨Brush Up on Your Technical Knowledge
Aerospace engineering is all about technical precision, so make sure you’re comfortable with key concepts like aerodynamics, propulsion, and materials science. We recommend going through any relevant coursework or projects you’ve worked on – these real-world examples can illustrate your understanding during the interview with RTX.
✨Showcase Your Projects with Confidence
Make sure to have a portfolio ready that details any significant projects you've worked on, whether it’s a group assignment or a personal endeavour. Be prepared to discuss the challenges you faced, the tools you used, like CAD software, and what you learned from the experience, as this will show your problem-solving skills in action.
✨Prepare for Technical Interviews
Expect some technical questions or even problem-solving exercises during your interview with RTX. Get familiar with design challenges or theoretical problems related to aerospace; this can range from calculating lift and drag forces to materials selection under stress. Practising these can help you feel more at ease when faced with tricky questions.
✨Emphasise Your Passion and Teamwork Skills
As a full-time candidate, it’s crucial to convey your passion for aerospace engineering and your ability to work in teams. Highlight any group projects or internships you've done, focusing on how you collaborated with others to achieve a goal. Companies like RTX love seeing candidates who not only have technical skills but also fit well within their team culture.
