Lead Safety Engineer – Weapons Systems

Gold Group; Kingswood; Hybrid; GBP 65,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Gold Group is seeking a Principal Safety Engineer to lead safety engineering for complex weapons, ordnance, munitions and explosives programmes in the UK defence sector. The role covers the full lifecycle, shaping safety strategy and delivering robust assurance evidence.

You will own hazard management, drive FHA/Physical Hazard Analysis, mentor engineers, and influence design and trials with senior customers and stakeholders. The position requires SC clearance and Bristol hybrid working.

Qualifications

• Substantial safety engineering experience (roughly 10+ years) within defence or other safety‑critical environments.
• Proven track record developing SMS, SMPs, and Safety Case Reports.
• Strong capability in hazard log creation, structure, and assurance.
• Experience performing FHA and Physical Hazard Analysis.
• Ability to lead technical packages, engage customers, and articulate safety issues clearly.

Responsibilities

• Define and implement proportionate Safety Management Systems (SMS) and Safety Management Plans (SMP) for complex weapons programmes.
• Produce Safety Case Reports (SCRs) and evidence to show risks are understood and controlled to ALARP.
• Create and maintain hazard logs with traceability from hazards to controls and evidence.
• Lead FHA and Physical Hazard Analysis, guiding design and trials decisions.
• Mentor junior and mid‑level engineers and conduct rigorous peer reviews.

Skills

SMS & SMPs

Safety Case Reports

Hazard Logs

FHA

Physical Hazard Analysis

Stakeholder Engagement

Leadership & Mentoring

Education

Engineering degree

Job description

Gold Group is seeking a Principal Safety Engineer to lead safety engineering for complex weapons, ordnance, munitions and explosives programmes in the UK defence sector. The role covers the full lifecycle, shaping safety strategy and delivering robust assurance evidence.

You will own hazard management, drive FHA/Physical Hazard Analysis, mentor engineers, and influence design and trials with senior customers and stakeholders. The position requires SC clearance and Bristol hybrid working.