Senior System Engineer

ZipRecruiter; Chertsey; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading defence company is seeking a Senior Systems Engineer to act as Systems Design Authority for a major defence project. This role demands leadership in delivering complex systems focusing on sonar software development, while collaborating closely with multi-disciplinary teams to ensure project success and foster innovation. The position offers a unique chance to influence advanced technology solutions in a dynamic environment.

Qualifications

• Proven experience delivering complex systems in the defence sector.
• Expertise across the full systems lifecycle from architecture to acceptance.
• Strong knowledge of sonar systems and practical experience in signal processing.

Responsibilities

• Lead the delivery of a complex multidisciplinary system.
• Mentor team members and provide technical governance.
• Manage system development from concept through customer acceptance.

Skills

Leadership

Signal Processing

Software Development

Communication

Risk Management

Education

Degree (BSc/BEng) in Engineering, Mathematics, or related technical discipline

Tools

C++

Java

C#

Windows

Linux

Job description

Job Description

We are seeking a highly experienced and motivated Senior Systems Engineer to take on a key leadership role as Systems Design Authority for a major defence project. This is a rare opportunity to lead the delivery of a complex, multidisciplinary system comprising advanced sensors, electronics, and signal processing firmware and software.

As the lead technical authority on the project, you will guide a multi-disciplinary engineering team through the entire systems engineering lifecycle—from architecture and design to integration, testing, and customer acceptance. Your responsibilities will also include mentoring team members, providing robust technical governance, and supporting the Project Manager with both internal and external reporting. You will also help shape the future direction of the system through upgrade strategies and long-term roadmaps.

The primary focus of this role is sonar system software development, including signal processing algorithm design. While current projects are maritime-focused, future work may expand into other domains.

• Key ResponsibilitiesServe as Systems Design Authority for one or more projects, acting as the lead technical decision-maker and supporting the Project Manager across all technical aspects.
• Lead and oversee design activities at the equipment, system, and software levels, ensuring robust verification through formal test procedures.
• Manage system development through all phases—from concept through to successful customer acceptance.
• Produce and review technical documentation including design specifications, test plans, and qualification procedures.
• Coordinate testing and qualification efforts, including those carried out at third-party test houses.
• Assist with project planning and contribute to the management of risks and opportunities.
• Direct and support software, hardware, and firmware teams to ensure system designs meet performance and operational requirements.
• Review and approve technical documents, and chair design reviews with customers and stakeholders.
• Represent the project at factory and field acceptance events.
• Contribute to safety, reliability, and through-life support considerations.
• Mentor and guide your multi-disciplinary team, fostering professional growth and technical excellence.
• Monitor technological and industry trends to continuously enhance product capability and efficiency.
• Support business development activities, including proposal writing and technical solution architecture.
• Build and maintain strong working relationships with customers, suppliers, and internal teams.
• Collaborate with other Design Authorities and Project Managers to resolve cross-project challenges.
• Drive engineering quality, innovation, and cost-effectiveness through R&D initiatives.
• Essential Skills & ExperienceProven experience delivering complex systems in the defence or similarly regulated industry.
• Expertise across the full systems lifecycle: architecture, design, development, integration, and acceptance.
• Strong knowledge of sonar systems, with practical experience in signal processing and software development.
• Proficient in modern software and design methodologies (e.g. C++, Java, C#).
• Solid understanding of complex electronics and firmware design principles.
• Experience with both Windows and Linux environments.
• Demonstrated leadership in mentoring and motivating engineering teams to deliver high-quality results.
• Capable of analysing and specifying detailed system acceptance criteria.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to engage technical and non-technical stakeholders alike.
• Experience in bid & proposal activities, including solution architecture and documentation.
• Familiar with agile or spiral development cycles.
• Adept at evaluating and managing technical risks and opportunities.
• Qualifications & Other RequirementsDegree (BSc/BEng) in Engineering, Mathematics, or a related technical discipline—or equivalent experience.
• Membership in a professional engineering or scientific institution .
• Sole UK , with eligibility for DV or SC UK security clearance.
• Full UK Driving Licence required.

If you're ready to lead high-impact engineering work in a fast-paced and innovative defence environment, we’d love to hear from you.