Combat Systems Engineering Manager in England

We invite Expressions of Interest from experienced engineering leaders for the role of Combat Systems Engineering Support Manager. This senior position is responsible for leading engineering sustainment outcomes to ensure the ongoing availability, performance and operational effectiveness of naval combat systems. The role sits at the intersection of engineering, sustainment, and stakeholder engagement, working collaboratively across sustainment teams, Combat Systems Integration teams, and Defence customers to deliver in-service engineering support, engineering change, and shore facility support. This is a key leadership role within a complex defence environment, offering the opportunity to shape technical strategy, influence sustainment outcomes, and lead high‑performing systems engineering teams.

As the Combat Systems Engineering Support Manager, you will:

• Lead the delivery of engineering sustainment outcomes to support operational availability of naval combat systems.
• Provide leadership across a multidisciplinary team of systems engineers.
• Work closely with customers and internal stakeholders to deliver engineering change, in‑service support and sustainment solutions.
• Balance strategic oversight with hands‑on technical leadership across a program of work.

Key Responsibilities

• Combat Systems Sustainment & Engineering Leadership
• Develop and manage requirements supporting the availability, efficiency and sustainment of naval combat systems.
• Provide engineering sustainment support including system help desks, planned and unplanned maintenance, and obsolescence management.
• Lead investigations and technical reporting, developing solutions to complex combat system issues.
• Provide authoritative combat systems engineering advice to stakeholders across the program.
• Engineering Governance & Assurance
• Review and assure systems engineering deliverables to ensure requirements are met and sustainment is supported.
• Facilitate development of engineering change scopes to meet sustainment requirements.
• Implement and maintain engineering plans, processes and procedures in alignment with the Navy Technical Regulatory Framework requirements.
• Ensure documentation and artefacts are produced, reviewed and controlled in accordance with approved standards.
• Strategy, Policy & Performance
• Contribute to company, Defence and engineering policies, standards and management frameworks.
• Develop and implement systems, policies and processes to enable high‑performance engineering delivery.
• Deliver financial outcomes in line with agreed performance measures, managing budgets and reporting requirements.
• Drive continuous improvement, reduced cost of ownership and Value for Money (VfM) outcomes.
• Technical & Leadership Accountabilities
• Lead strategic planning and definition of system requirements aligned to operational and business objectives.
• Guide system architecture, design reviews and risk management activities.
• Oversee system integration, verification, validation and final acceptance activities.
• Provide strategic oversight of deployment, post‑deployment support and long‑term system reliability.
• Lead engineering scoping, planning, estimating and resourcing activities.
• Develop team capability, succession planning and organisational resilience.
• Engage effectively with senior management and complex stakeholder groups.

About You

Essential Experience

• Minimum 12–15 years’ engineering experience, with significant exposure to military or defence systems.
• Strong background in systems engineering for software‑intensive and complex systems.
• Extensive experience in Combat Systems Engineering, including:
• Combat Management Systems, weapons and fire control systems.
• Integration of communications, navigation, EW systems and sensors.
• EMI/EMC analysis, RADHAZ and emission security.
• Demonstrated leadership experience managing senior engineering teams.
• Program or project management experience within an engineering organisation.
• Practical application of asset management, maintenance and sustainment practices.
• Strong understanding of Integrated Logistics Support (ILS).
• Robust knowledge of the RAN Technical Support Network.

Technical Knowledge

• Proficient understanding of systems engineering principles and ASDEFCON environments.
• Knowledge of military system integration and network / network security concepts.

Personal Attributes

You will bring:

• Strong strategic thinking with the ability to balance operational delivery and long‑term objectives.
• Excellent communication skills, capable of conveying complex technical information to diverse audiences.
• Proven ability to lead, inspire and develop high‑performing teams.
• Confidence operating in complex, high‑stake stakeholder environments.
• A collaborative, accountable and values‑driven leadership style.
• Alignment with Saab values of Trust, Drive and Expertise.

Qualifications & Professional Memberships

• Tertiary qualifications (Bachelor’s or Master’s degree) in Engineering, Computer Science or a related discipline.
• Relevant professional certifications desirable, including:
• Engineers Australia CPEng.
• INCOSE ASEP / CSEP / ESEP.

As Defence security clearance is required for this role, applicants must be Australian citizens and eligible to obtain and maintain an NV1 clearance.

About Us

Saab Australia is a defence, security and cyber solutions provider, specialising in the development and integration of major defence and security systems. For over 30 years in Australia, we have built a reputation for delivering complex systems integration projects that provide proven and advanced capabilities to keep us ahead of today’s challenges. From combat, communications, security and underwater systems to mixed reality, cyber security and deployable health solutions, our extensive portfolio of products and services provide high‑technology solutions for defence forces and civil industries across the globe.

Culture and Benefits

We employ over 1000 Australians and are committed to fostering a culture of excellence and enriching the employee experience. By joining Saab, you’ll be a part of a collaborative and supportive organisation, where your professional growth and work‑life balance are emphasised. You’ll work within an innovative and vibrant workplace, while having the opportunity to develop a long‑term, fulfilling career. As a valued team member of Saab Australia, you’ll access a variety of perks and benefits to support you and your family, including:

• 6 weeks paid leave each year.
• 14% superannuation.
• Free income protection insurance.
• Flexible working options.
• Access to the Saab shares matching scheme.
• Access to MySaab; our online store offering everything from cash back at hundreds of stores to discounts from exclusive partners.

Applications

Click ‘Apply’ to submit your CV and cover letter in support of your application. Kindly observe that this is an ongoing recruitment process and in exceptional circumstances, the position might be filled before the closing date of the advertisement. We encourage applications as early as possible to avoid disappointment.

By submitting an application to Saab, you consent to undertaking workforce screening activities including, but not limited to: reference checks, Australian Federal Police check, verification of working rights and qualifications, sanctions screening and a pre‑employment medical declaration.

Equal Opportunity

Saab Australia is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders to apply. We also welcome applications from individuals with culturally diverse backgrounds. Saab Australia is a nationally recognised Veteran Employer of Choice and welcomes the interest of ex‑service members, veterans and their families.

Seniority and Types

• Seniority level: Not applicable.
• Employment type: Full‑time.
• Job function: Engineering and Information Technology.
• Industries: Defense and Space Manufacturing, Security and Investigations, and IT Services and IT Consulting.