Principal Systems Engineer

ZipRecruiter; Stevenage; Hybrid; GBP 51,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading Defence client seeks a Principal Systems Engineer to join their innovative team. Based in locations like Stevenage or Bristol, the role involves shaping cutting-edge engineering approaches, collaborating with multi-disciplinary teams, and mentoring future engineers. Candidates should have a strong background in systems engineering techniques. A hybrid working model is offered, with competitive salary up to £60,000 depending on experience.

Qualifications

• Experience in requirements capture and use case analysis is necessary.
• Proficient in system architecture design and functional modelling.
• Knowledge of Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) approaches is important.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with multi-disciplinary teams to create innovative system concepts.
• Lead work packages, coordinating technology specialists.
• Gain experience across the full spectrum of systems engineering techniques.

Skills

Requirements capture and Use Case analysis

Concept assessment & design trade studies

System architecture design and functional modelling

Performance assessment & behavioural analysis

Verification, Validation & Certification

Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE)

Job description

Overview

Copello are supporting a leading Defence client in their search for a Principal Systems Engineer. They will be joining the Systems Design Emerging Portfolio & Capability team, where you’ll shape the future of Complex capabilities for the UK and partner nations. You’ll be applying your systems engineering expertise at the very front end of the product lifecycle. This is your chance to work on projects that truly matter—pushing the boundaries of what’s possible and safeguarding our armed forces.

Role details

Salary: Up to £60,000 (DOE)

Locations: Bristol, Stevenage, or Bolton (relocation support available)

Working model: Hybrid – typically 3–4 days on-site per week due to project requirements

Clearance: Must be a British or a Dual UK with British citizenship

Responsibilities

• Collaborating with multi-disciplinary teams to create innovative system concepts
• Leading your own work packages, co-ordinating technology specialists, and shaping cutting-edge engineering approaches
• Gaining valuable experience across the full spectrum of systems engineering techniques
• Building leadership skills and mentoring the engineers of the future

This role offers a rare mix of technical depth and breadth, alongside opportunities to grow into leadership, project management, or technical expert roles.

What we’re looking for

• Requirements capture and Use Case analysis
• Concept assessment & design trade studies
• System architecture design and functional modelling
• Performance assessment & behavioural analysis
• Verification, Validation & Certification
• Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE)