Senior Defence Systems Architect

ViaSat Inc.; Farnborough; On-site; GBP 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Viasat UK is seeking a Principal Systems Engineer to define features, architect end-to-end solutions, and lead a team of electronics, FPGA, software, and mechanical engineers from concept to deployment.

The role requires a 7+ year track record in defence/aerospace/space, a relevant engineering degree, and strong system-level thinking with the ability to coordinate across disciplines and customers. DV clearance eligibility is essential.

Qualifications

• 7+ years in defence, aerospace, or space developing physical electronic/software products.
• Degree-level qualification in Engineering, Electronic Design, Computer Science, Physics, or relevant field.
• Proven track record delivering complex technical solutions across the systems engineering lifecycle.
• Strong system-level thinking and ability to converse with hardware, software, FPGA, and mechanical domains.
• Excellent technical documentation skills and ability to negotiate technical requirements with customers.
• Nationality & Security: sole British Nationality and eligible for UK DV Clearance.

Responsibilities

• Act as the technical authority for product features, system behavior, and inter-disciplinary design trade-offs.
• Lead elicitation, structuring, and management of technical requirements using IBM DOORS across engineering disciplines.
• Guide the development team through the product lifecycle, identify risks early, drive resolution.
• Oversee full product verification, validation, and environmental qualification processes from concept to acceptance.
• Support the commercial team by producing robust engineering estimates for bid activities.
• Interface directly with defence customers to clarify or modify requirements and ensure the end need is met.

Skills

System architecture

Requirements engineering

Engineering leadership

Lifecycle management

Bid estimation

Customer discussions

SysML/UML

Education

Engineering degree (Engineering / Electronic Design / Computer Science / Physics)

Tools

IBM DOORS

Job description

Viasat UK is seeking a Principal Systems Engineer to define features, architect end-to-end solutions, and lead a team of electronics, FPGA, software, and mechanical engineers from concept to deployment.

The role requires a 7+ year track record in defence/aerospace/space, a relevant engineering degree, and strong system-level thinking with the ability to coordinate across disciplines and customers. DV clearance eligibility is essential.