Lead Systems Design Engineer – Aerospace & Defence

Affinity Talent Partners; Farnborough; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading technology firm seeks a Lead Systems Design Engineer to develop and deliver cutting-edge system architectures across various domains including naval and airborne communications. The role requires proven problem-solving skills, experience in producing high-quality engineering documentation, and excellent communication abilities. Ideal candidates will hold a relevant degree and thrive in a collaborative, technically demanding environment. This is a significant opportunity to impact secure communication technologies.

Qualifications

• Proven ability to challenge conventional approaches and propose novel solutions.
• Experience producing high-quality engineering documentation.
• Skilled in integration, verification, and validation activities.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development of system architectures for new projects.
• Define technical solutions during bids to support cost estimation.
• Research and develop innovative solutions to complex technical challenges.
• Lead design reviews with stakeholders to ensure technical robustness.
• Create and manage Interface Control Documents for seamless integration.
• Coordinate engineering activities with third-party subsystems.

Skills

Problem-solving and innovative thinking

Communication skills

Technical documentation skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Maths, Physics, Computer Science, or Engineering

Master’s degree (advantageous)

Job description

Our client is a globally recognised leader in secure communications and Electronic Warfare for land, sea, and air domains, with a presence in over 70 countries.

Following continued growth in their Aerospace & Defence segment, they are seeking a Lead Systems Design Engineer to join their UK team. This role is central to the development and delivery of cutting‑edge system architectures for a diverse portfolio of products and applications, spanning naval, army, airborne communications, critical infrastructure, and other advanced domains.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development of system architectures for new projects, integrating input from engineering, sales, and project delivery teams.
• Define and document technical solutions during bids, supporting cost estimation and solution definition.
• Research and develop innovative solutions to complex technical challenges, leveraging internal expertise and external collaboration as needed.
• Lead design reviews with internal and external stakeholders, ensuring technical robustness and alignment.
• Document system designs using approved corporate tools, maintaining version control and configuration management.
• Create and manage Interface Control Documents (ICDs) to ensure seamless integration of subsystems.
• Coordinate engineering activities to align third‑party subsystems with overall system requirements.
• Continuously improve local design processes and contribute to project leadership, balancing requirements, schedule, and cost.
• Participate in system testing, trials, and verification activities.
• Support the resolution of in‑service system issues as required.

Essential Experience

• Proven ability to challenge conventional approaches and propose novel solutions to technical problems.
• Strong track record of working with customers to develop high‑quality technical solutions.
• Experience producing high‑quality engineering documentation and artefacts.
• Skilled in identifying and conducting trade studies to evaluate alternative solutions.
• Experience in integration, verification, and validation activities, including test planning, execution, and reporting.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Desirable Experience

• Knowledge of communications systems and technologies.
• Experience managing subcontractors from a technical and relationship perspective.
• Familiarity with naval or defence systems, procedures, or processes.
• Broad technical knowledge and a commitment to ongoing professional development.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Maths, Physics, Computer Science, or Engineering (or equivalent experience).
• Master’s degree is advantageous.

This is an exciting opportunity to work at the forefront of secure communications technology, shaping the future of critical systems for global markets. If you are passionate about engineering innovation and thrive in a collaborative, technically demanding environment, we encourage you to apply.