At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a dynamic team to design and develop cutting-edge sonar systems for anti-submarine warfare.
- Company: Thales UK innovates in defence, aerospace, security, and space, impacting millions daily.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working hours, hybrid options, 28 days leave, and a half-day every Friday!
- Other info: Security clearance needed; diverse and inclusive workplace committed to your development.
- Why this job: Be part of a friendly team, work on impactful projects, and grow your career with top industry mentors.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in Systems Engineering; degree in engineering or related field required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 84000 £ per year.
Location
Templecombe or Crawley or Cheadle (Minimum 3 days onsite)
About the Team
Thales Underwater Systems (UWS) designs, develops and supports Sonar Systems applications for anti‑submarine warfare and mine hunting. We seek a Senior Hardware Architect to join a close‑knit, friendly and hardworking team.
About the Role
Senior Hardware Architect
Key Responsibilities and Tasks
- Perform a subset of the system engineering activities required to develop a component or sub‑system within the Anti‑Submarine Warfare (ASW) Conformal Array Projects.
- Be technically responsible for the hardware architecture and its consistency with the solution/system architecture.
- Coordinate with the Lead Hardware Architect to ensure top‑down refinement of the solution is consistent with the Sonar Hardware Products (SHP) strategy and constraints, including COTS selection and components reuse.
- Analyse the customer’s and other stakeholders’ needs using advanced studies, simulations, mock‑ups, models or prototypes.
- Describe the requirements, functions and interfaces on the component or sub‑system.
- Formalise the specification and the architectural design to develop the component or sub‑system.
- Prepare and perform the component or sub‑system verification and validation tests.
- Ensure that hardware architecture stability is maintained across lifecycle phases from Bid to Delivery.
- Direct and coordinate hardware architecture studies.
- Approve the technical, technological and methodological choices taken in respect of the selected hardware architecture.
- Guarantee adherence to in‑scope standards, reuse policy and product development plans.
- Identify modelling, simulation and prototyping opportunities.
- Coordinate product definition and assess trade‑offs between cost, customer requirements and technological possibilities.
- Prepare the Design & Justification Files.
- Provide knowledge on state‑of‑the‑art hardware architecting, taking account of future developments.
- Monitor technological developments.
- Lead design elements specific for mechanical or electrical disciplines if appropriately experienced.
Qualifications
- Minimum five years’ experience in a Systems Engineering role in an appropriate engineering field (e.g. Maritime, Aerospace, Defence).
- Equivalent experience in a relevant technical field, either mechanical or electronics design, will also be considered.
- Ability to work collaboratively within a team environment with good interpersonal, communication and presentation skills.
- Proactive, "can‑do" mentality and logical problem‑solving approaches.
- Ability to understand and implement Product Line Engineering strategies.
- Technical leadership in design and development activities, interfacing with other technical disciplines.
- L6 Qualification (degree or equivalent in mechanical/electronics/electrical engineering or a scientific discipline).
- Desirable to have experience in underwater acoustics and/or sonar, design of equipment for the sub‑sea environment, and Design for Cost / Design for Manufacture practices.
- Desirable to hold a Chartered Engineer status or an L7 Qualification (Masters or equivalent).
Security Clearance
Due to the nature of the work, you must be a UK National and achieve Security Clearance (SC) without any caveats. Existing clearance is advantageous; otherwise, the successful applicant must undergo, achieve and maintain SC clearance prior to commencing employment.
Benefits
- Half day every Friday, finishing around 13:00.
- Hybrid working options.
- Competitive base salary and pension scheme.
- 28 days annual leave plus bank holidays.
- Life cover.
- Progression and development opportunities.
- 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme and access to a mental well‑being app.
- Employee discount shopping schemes on major brands and retailers.
- Relocation support and learning, development and career enhancement opportunities.
Thales is an equal opportunities employer; diversity and inclusion are integral to our success.
Senior Hardware Architect in Templecombe employer: Thales
Thales is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Crawley where innovation meets social responsibility. With a strong commitment to employee development, you will have access to market-leading training and mentorship from industry experts, alongside competitive benefits such as private healthcare, a robust pension plan, and opportunities for career advancement within a diverse global organisation. Join us to contribute to cutting-edge projects in defence and aerospace while enjoying a supportive culture that values your growth and well-being.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Hardware Architect in Templecombe
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in hardware architecture, especially in defence and underwater systems. This knowledge will not only help you during interviews but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the defence and aerospace sectors. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with current employees at Thales or similar companies, which can provide valuable insights and potentially a referral.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with Systems Engineering Toolsets and Practices. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've applied these in past projects, as this is crucial for the Senior Hardware Architect role.
✨Tip Number 4
Understand the importance of Security Clearance for this position. Familiarise yourself with the process and requirements, as being proactive about this can set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Hardware Architect in Templecombe
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role:Before applying, make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Senior Hardware Architect position. Understand the key responsibilities and required skills, as this will help you tailor your application to highlight relevant experiences.
Tailor Your CV:Customise your CV to reflect the specific skills and experiences that align with the role. Emphasise your experience in systems engineering, hardware design, and any relevant projects you've worked on, particularly those related to defence or underwater acoustics.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Write a cover letter that not only introduces yourself but also explains why you are a great fit for the Senior Hardware Architect role. Mention your understanding of Thales' mission and how your background aligns with their goals in defence and technology.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications:Ensure that your application clearly states your qualifications, especially your degree in mechanical/electronics/electrical engineering. If you have any additional certifications or experience that relate to the role, be sure to include those as well.
How to prepare for a job interview at Thales
✨Understand the Role and Responsibilities
Make sure you thoroughly understand the key responsibilities of a Senior Hardware Architect at Thales. Familiarise yourself with the specific tasks mentioned in the job description, such as hardware architecture stability and verification tests, so you can discuss how your experience aligns with these requirements.
✨Showcase Your Technical Expertise
Prepare to discuss your technical knowledge in systems engineering, hardware design, and any relevant tools or methodologies. Be ready to provide examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your ability to lead design activities and interface with other technical disciplines.
✨Demonstrate Team Collaboration Skills
Thales values teamwork, so be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully collaborated within a team environment. Highlight your interpersonal skills and proactive approach, as these are essential for working effectively with colleagues and stakeholders.
✨Prepare Questions for the Interviewers
Having insightful questions ready shows your genuine interest in the role and the company. Ask about the team dynamics, ongoing projects, or future technological developments in sonar systems. This not only demonstrates your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the company culture aligns with your values.