Head of Systems & Supportability Engineering

JR United Kingdom; Stoke-on-Trent; Hybrid; GBP 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading consultancy in the UK is seeking a Head of Systems & Supportability Engineering to lead a talented team on impactful defence projects. The role requires extensive systems engineering expertise, strong leadership, and a collaborative approach to drive successful project outcomes in a fast-paced environment. The successful candidate will shape strategies, develop capabilities, and work on high-profile programmes that contribute to national security.

Benefits

Profit sharing

7% employer pension

Health insurance

Holiday buy/sell options

Career development opportunities

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in systems engineering and public sector projects.
• Deep knowledge of UK MOD acquisition processes.
• Strong leadership and collaborative skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead a team of engineers to support government programmes.
• Set direction and develop capabilities for high-quality project delivery.
• Mentor junior staff and oversee complex technical projects.

Skills

Systems Engineering

Integrated Logistics Support (ILS)

Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE)

Engineering Governance

Stakeholder Management

Tools

DOORS

Dimensions RM

Job description

Job Title: Head of Systems & Supportability Engineering

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

Sector: Defence & Government Projects

Are you a senior systems engineering expert looking to lead on some of the UK’s most complex and impactful defence projects?

A well-established consultancy trusted by government customers to deliver critical programmes is recruiting a Head of Systems & Supportability Engineering. You will set the direction, grow the team, and make a significant impact from day one.

The Role:

As the Head of Systems & Supportability Engineering, you will lead a team of talented engineers, shaping how they support government programmes. Your responsibilities include setting vision, developing capabilities, and ensuring top-quality delivery — from managing requirements and systems architecture to integrated logistics and MBSE.

As a key leadership member, you will collaborate across departments to shape strategy, support business development, mentor junior staff, grow and lead your team, and oversee high-quality delivery on complex technical projects.

Requirements:

• Extensive experience in systems engineering, ILS, MBSE, and engineering governance
• Deep knowledge of UK MOD and its acquisition processes (URDs, SRDs, CONUSE, ITEAP, etc.)
• Familiarity with tools like DOORS or Dimensions RM
• Experience delivering projects within the UK public sector, especially defence
• Collaborative, flexible, and hands-on approach
• Strong stakeholder and team leadership skills

What’s in it for you?

• A fast-paced, impactful role where you can make your mark
• Opportunity to work on high-profile government and defence programmes
• A supportive, inclusive team valuing innovation and fresh ideas
• Tailored career development opportunities
• Enhanced benefits including profit sharing, 7% employer pension, health insurance, holiday buy/sell options, and long-term growth

If you’re ready to lead a talented team and shape the future of defence engineering, we’d love to hear from you.