Senior Systems Engineer

Copello; Lancashire; Hybrid; GBP 68,000 - 81,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading Defence business is seeking a Senior Electronics Systems Engineer to design and develop advanced complex electronic hardware and FPGA-based systems. The ideal candidate will have expertise in VHDL, Verilog, and hardware design to deliver innovative solutions meeting demanding standards. Hybrid working opportunities are available in Lancaster, with potential additional locations such as Brough or Bristol.

Qualifications

• Degree or equivalent in a STEM discipline; HND/HNC considered.
• Strong experience in FPGA design, VHDL, Verilog, and complex electronic hardware.
• Proven background in hardware/software co-design, system integration, and validation.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of advanced complex electronic hardware.
• Apply expertise to deliver innovative solutions that meet safety and performance standards.

Skills

FPGA design

VHDL

Verilog

Complex electronic hardware

Hardware/software co-design

System integration

Safety/security practices

Collaboration with international teams

Education

Degree in a STEM discipline

Tools

Simulink

MATLAB

Job description

Senior Electronics Systems Engineer - Aerospace

Salary - up to 81k plus package.

Location - Lancaster, hybrid. Additional locations may be considered such as Brough or Bristol.

Due to the nature of this role, to be considered, you must be eligible for DV clearance and hold a British passport. You are able to start on SC Clearance.

Copello are working with a leading Defence business who are looking for someone to lead the design and development of advanced complex electronic hardware and FPGA-based systems within the Onboard Computing Systems Domain for major defence programmes.

Apply your expertise in VHDL, Verilog, and hardware design to deliver innovative solutions that meet demanding safety, security, and performance standards.

Skills and experience

• Degree or equivalent in a STEM discipline; HND/HNC considered.
• Strong experience in FPGA design, VHDL, Verilog, and complex electronic hardware.
• Proven background in hardware/software co-design, system integration, and validation in secure or safety‑critical environments.
• Solid understanding of systems engineering, lifecycle management, and safety/security practices.
• Experience collaborating with international teams, suppliers, and stakeholders.
• Ability to lead technical projects, mentor junior engineers, and influence stakeholders effectively.

Nice to Have

• Prior experience in avionics, IMA, or aircraft systems.
• Exposure to Simulink, MATLAB, or similar hardware/software modelling tools.
• Experience on high-security or international defence projects.