Senior Systems Engineer in Bristol

Sagentia Defence provides science and technology consultancy expertise to help solve the most complex challenges faced by mission-critical defence programmes. Working as an independent and agnostic advisor, we are a trusted customer friend to the MOD with comprehensive defence experience: our defence sector experience spans over 60 years.

Our defence practice works in partnership with national government bodies, international institutions and global prime contractors on developing and leveraging next-generation technologies, enterprise transformation, feasibility analysis, system engineering, and programme delivery across S&T, Maritime, Air, Land, Joint, and defence digital projects.

We are seeking an experienced Systems Engineer to join our team. This is a fantastic opportunity to be part of a forward-thinking team, supporting the development of key military systems.

As a Systems Engineer at Sagentia Defence, you will play a pivotal role in MOD programme across the CADMID cycle and in a number of domains, providing expert consultation to design, develop, and integrate complex systems and technologies. We are looking for Systems Engineers with broad expertise as well as a specialism in one or more disciplines, including:

• System Design and Architecture: Lead the development and refinement of system architectures for defence projects. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure system designs meet the unique requirements of the UK MoD.
• Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE): Utilise MBSE methodologies and tools to create models, simulations, and documentation that aid in requirement analysis, system design, and verification processes.
• Requirements Engineering and Management: Identify and consult stakeholders to capture User needs and define requirements, measures of effectiveness, and performance. Capture evidence to support procurement activities. Develop, analyse and manage user and system-level requirements for MOD projects. Ensure clarity, completeness, and consistency with project objectives. Conduct thorough requirements analysis and traceability, ensuring alignment with UK MoD specifications. Develop and manage requirements documentation throughout the project lifecycle.
• Stakeholder Collaboration: Collaborate closely with UK MoD stakeholders, understanding their operational needs and incorporating feedback into system designs. Present technical information and project updates to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• System of Systems (SoS) Integration and Testing: Work with cross-functional teams to understand the intricacies of systems of systems and their integration into overarching projects. Develop strategies for seamless integration and interoperability. Oversee the integration of various subsystems and components into cohesive, high-performance systems. Develop and execute comprehensive testing plans to validate system functionality and performance.
• Risk Management: Identify and assess potential risks associated with system integration and implementation. Develop and implement risk mitigation strategies to ensure project success.
• Regulatory Compliance: Ensure all systems adhere to relevant regulatory and compliance standards within the defence industry. Stay abreast of changes in regulations and update systems accordingly.
• Technology Evaluation: Stay informed about emerging technologies relevant to defence systems engineering. Evaluate new technologies for potential integration, considering performance, cost, and security implications.
• Documentation and Reporting: Generate comprehensive technical documentation, including system specifications, design and system architecture options documents and test reports to support project development and customer communication. Provide regular status updates and project reports to project stakeholders and management.

We’re looking for driven, adaptable professionals with a background in consultancy or defence—people who thrive in both independent roles and collaborative, cross-functional teams. If you are passionate about solving complex problems and shaping the future of defence systems, we want to hear from you.

As a Systems Engineer, you’ll bring a blend of technical expertise, strategic thinking, and hands-on experience. Ideally, you will have:

• Experience of requirements management within the UK MOD (Frontline Commands or Delivery Agents).
• Knowledge of the UK acquisition framework (e.g. Business Cases, URD, SRD, CONEMP/CONUSE, ITEAP, etc.).
• Comprehension of Defence Lines of Development, and how they can drive requirements.
• Knowledge of operational environments, including understanding the challenges and impacts of geography, climate, media and information, population, urbanisation or cyber.
• Experience of DOORS/Dimensions RM software to support requirements management.
• Understanding of modern SE approaches like MBSE.

If you are interested in applying for this role you must meet the following criteria:

• Candidates must have an existing right to live and work in the UK.
• Candidates will need to undergo an internal BPSS check prior to gaining site access.
• Candidates will also need to either hold a current SC clearance or be willing and eligible to undergo a Security Clearance check (SC level) upon starting their employment with the company. To gain SC clearance you will normally need at least 5 years’ UK residency.

In return, you will be joining a company that is growing and looking to provide you with the opportunity to develop your career. We will support you in expanding your skills and capabilities and the team around you. We will provide you with a competitive salary and benefits package including private medical along with company profit share scheme and EAP.