Head of Systems & Supportability Engineering

JR United Kingdom; Preston; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading defence contractor seeks a Head of Systems & Supportability Engineering in Bristol. This senior role involves leading a team through complex government programmes, implementing support strategies, and ensuring compliance with UK MOD standards. The successful candidate will thrive in a dynamic and innovative environment while influencing the future of defence engineering.

Benefits

Profit sharing

7% pension

Health insurance

Holiday buy/sell options

Career growth opportunities

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in systems engineering, especially in the defense sector.
• Strong leadership and stakeholder management skills.
• Proficiency with tools like DOORS or Dimensions RM.

Responsibilities

• Lead a team of engineers supporting government programmes.
• Develop and implement systems support strategies.
• Ensure compliance with UK MOD processes and standards.

Skills

Systems engineering

ILS

MBSE

Engineering governance

Leadership

Stakeholder management

Tools

DOORS

Dimensions RM

Job description

Head of Systems & Supportability Engineering

Location:

Bristol (hybrid working) | Clearance: SC (or willing to obtain)

Sector:

Defence & Government Projects

Job Description:

We are seeking a senior systems engineering expert to lead and shape the supportability engineering team on some of the UK’s most complex defence projects. The successful candidate will set strategic direction, develop capabilities, and ensure high-quality delivery across technical projects.

Responsibilities:

• Lead a team of engineers supporting government programmes
• Develop and implement systems support strategies, including requirements management and systems architecture
• Collaborate with cross-department teams to shape project strategies and support business development
• Mentor junior staff and foster a high-performance team environment
• Ensure compliance with UK MOD processes and standards

Qualifications and Experience:

• Extensive experience in systems engineering, ILS, MBSE, and engineering governance
• Knowledge of UK MOD acquisition processes (URDs, SRDs, CONUSE, ITEAP, etc.)
• Proficiency with tools like DOORS or Dimensions RM
• Experience working in the UK public sector, particularly defence
• Strong leadership and stakeholder management skills
• Ability to operate both in detail and strategic planning

Benefits:

• Impactful role within high-profile government and defence projects
• Supportive and innovative team environment
• Tailored career development opportunities
• Enhanced benefits including profit sharing, 7% pension, health insurance, holiday buy/sell options, and career growth opportunities

If you are ready to lead a talented team and influence the future of defence engineering, we look forward to your application.