Systems Architect

Systems Architect

Full-Time 48000 - 84000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Join our team as a Systems Architect, designing innovative solutions for defence systems.
  • Company: Thales UK is a leading technology provider impacting millions through aerospace, defence, and security.
  • Benefits: Enjoy flexible working hours, remote options, and a supportive work environment tailored to your lifestyle.
  • Other info: We support diverse applicants and offer career development opportunities across 68 countries.
  • Why this job: Be part of a mission-driven company that values innovation and teamwork while making a real-world impact.
  • Qualifications: Proven experience in product design, systems engineering, and strong communication skills are essential.

The predicted salary is between 48000 - 84000 £ per year.

Location: Green Park, United Kingdom

Thales is a global technology leader with more than 83,000 employees on five continents. With over 7,500 people in the UK, operating across defence, space, aerospace, and digital security, we help build a future we can all trust. Thales supports the security and stability of our nation by providing extraordinary technology to our customers, as well as delivering social value to the UK with our products and services.

System Architect

Green Park - Hybrid module

An opportunity has arisen for an experienced Systems Architect to deliver the role of Systems Architect in support of our Airborne products.

The role is based in Reading, but may be required to work at other Thales locations. Depending on the specific projects the role may require periods of time to be spent at Customer sites and/or integration facilities.

Primary Purpose of the Role:
The successful candidate will be a talented Systems Architect with experience of conceptual and detailed design, Integration and delivery, coupled with a proven capability of delivering mission system programmes.

Key Responsibilities and Tasks:
The successful candidate will be responsible for defining and recommending candidate architectures for the corresponding level (solution or solution element) to satisfy stakeholder expectations according to the standards and re-use policies, the technology roadmap and the business strategy. The candidate will be responsible for establishing the solution architecture by making trade-offs between stakeholder expectations, technical and technological solutions and costs, risks and schedule, document the associated artefacts and approve the resulting lower-level specifications (internal or external).

You will be responsible for planning work, using systems thinking to analyse problems, managing, writing and verifying technical requirements, producing technical reports and specifications, performing systems analyses, meeting milestones and working as part of a multi-disciplinary team to deliver successful programmes.

Typical Tasks include:

  • Applying a systems thinking approach to architecture design for the lifecycle of the product. Ideally using methods similar to those recommended by INCOSE.
  • Deriving and modelling the solution architecture using ARCADIA Architectural Framework, ideally using Model Based System Engineering approaches.
  • Identifying methods to test and validate the architecture.
  • Detailing the design and documenting design decisions and rationale.
  • Developing the system design in accordance with the system architecture and requirements.
  • Perform system modelling using system engineering tools.
  • Manage technical requirements flow-down and implementation from customer to sub-systems.
  • Support development and performing of system verification methods to demonstrate compliance with the customer’s needs.
  • Working within the scope of the Company’s Processes and the System Engineering Management Plan.
  • Working within the engineering team to accomplish engineering activities to time, budget and quality.
  • Contributing to and writing Engineering Plans, Technical Specifications, interface Documents, Test Plans and Technical Reports.
  • Ensuring that design certification for contract requirements and appropriate legislation, including product safety, is performed correctly.
  • Supporting engineering reviews and prepare associated technical documentation.

Skills

  • An understanding of the fundamentals of Systems Engineering methodologies around Design, Verification, Validation, Qualification and Acceptance.
  • Experience deriving system capabilities, functionalities and behaviours, ideally using Model Based Systems Engineering & SysML approaches.
  • Understanding of the different actors involved in projects with the ability to contextualise and change the perspective (political, economic, social, technical, environmental, legal...).
  • Self-motivated and capable of working alone & with teams.
  • Proven experience in product design in an engineering or research environment.
  • Must have good communication skills.
  • Experience producing documentation with clarity and precision.
  • Be prepared to challenge other’s views and willing to accept constructive feedback.
  • IBM DOORS or an equivalent requirements management tool.
  • Enterprise Architect / Capella / Rhapsody or similar MBSE tool.
  • MATLAB or an equivalent simulation/modelling tool (Desirable).
  • Knowledge of analogue and digital circuit design (Desirable).
  • Expertise in Lan Systems and Armoured Fighting Vehicle domains (Desirable).
  • Knowledge and experience of open vehicle architectures (Desirable).

Connect with Fiona Tal, Talent Acquisition Partner #LI-FT1 who is eager to explore together with you this exciting opportunity.

This role will require SC Clearance. It would be advantageous if currently held, however, if not currently held, it is a requirement that the successful applicant will undergo, achieve, and maintain SC Clearance. Please visit the UKSV website for further guidance.

To be eligible for full SC, you generally need to have resided in the UK for the last 5 years. In some circumstances, a minimum of 3 years’ residence in the UK over the last 5 years may be accepted, with additional overseas checks.

For further details of the evidence required to apply for Baseline and Security Clearance please refer to the National Security Vetting (NSV) Agency - United Kingdom Secu

At Thales, we ensure equal opportunities, pay and working conditions for all. The benefits we offer include private medical insurance, buying or selling annual leave, cycle to work schemes, employee discounts, paid volunteering day, stocks and shares, annual bonus and much more depending on the role. Read more about our benefits here.

We are committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued for who they are and the unique strengths they bring. Discover more about our programmes, employee networks, wellbeing policies, and inclusive features here.

If this role isn’t quite right for you, we encourage you to join our talent community where your details will be shared with our recruitment teams for other potential opportunities. Join the Talent Community here.

Join Thales in the UK – Innovate with us and shape the future!

Systems Architect employer: Thales

Thales is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Glasgow where innovation meets collaboration. With a strong focus on employee development, competitive benefits including a performance-related bonus and generous leave policies, and a commitment to inclusivity, Thales empowers its employees to thrive while contributing to critical projects in the Sea sector. Join us to be part of a team that values your unique strengths and supports your professional growth.

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Contact Details:

Thales Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Systems Architect

Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with the ARCADIA Architectural Framework and Model Based System Engineering principles. Understanding these frameworks will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to the role.

Tip Number 2

Network with current or former employees of Thales, especially those in the Systems Engineering team. They can provide valuable insights into the company culture and expectations, which can be beneficial during your discussions.

Tip Number 3

Prepare to discuss specific examples of your experience with systems thinking and architectural design. Be ready to explain how you've applied these concepts in past projects, as this will showcase your practical knowledge.

Tip Number 4

Stay updated on the latest trends and technologies in defence systems and engineering methodologies. Showing that you are knowledgeable about current advancements can set you apart from other candidates.

We think you need these skills to ace Systems Architect

Systems Thinking
Architectural Design
Model Based Systems Engineering
Technical Requirements Management
Technical Documentation
Analogue and Digital Circuit Design
Verification and Validation Methodologies

Some tips for your application 🫡

Understand the Role:Before applying, make sure you fully understand the Systems Architect role at Thales. Review the job description carefully and identify the key responsibilities and skills required. Tailor your application to highlight how your experience aligns with these requirements.

Craft a Tailored CV:Your CV should be tailored specifically for the Systems Architect position. Emphasise relevant experience in systems engineering, product design, and any specific tools mentioned, such as IBM DOORS or MATLAB. Use clear headings and bullet points to make it easy to read.

Write a Compelling Cover Letter:In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Highlight your understanding of systems thinking and your ability to work within multi-discipline teams. Be sure to mention any relevant projects or experiences that demonstrate your capabilities.

Proofread Your Application:Before submitting your application, thoroughly proofread all documents. Check for spelling and grammatical errors, and ensure that your writing is clear and precise. A well-presented application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.

How to prepare for a job interview at Thales

Understand Systems Engineering Methodologies

Familiarise yourself with the fundamentals of Systems Engineering methodologies, especially around Design, Verification, Validation, Qualification, and Acceptance. Be prepared to discuss how you've applied these methodologies in your previous roles.

Showcase Your Technical Documentation Skills

Since the role involves producing clear and precise documentation, bring examples of your past work. Highlight your experience with tools like IBM DOORS or MATLAB, and be ready to explain how you ensure clarity in technical reports and specifications.

Demonstrate Teamwork and Communication Skills

This position requires good team-working skills and effective communication. Prepare examples of how you've successfully collaborated with multi-discipline teams and how you handle constructive feedback. Show that you're a team player who can motivate others.

Prepare for Problem-Solving Scenarios

Be ready to discuss how you apply a systems thinking approach to architecture design. Think of specific problems you've encountered in past projects and how you analysed and resolved them. This will demonstrate your analytical skills and ability to manage technical requirements.