Systems Engineer

DEFENCE SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY LABORATORY; Idmiston; On-site; GBP 37,000 - 44,000; Full time

Job summary

A government agency in the UK is seeking a Systems Engineer to work on complex cyber and electromagnetic activities projects. The role involves shaping system-level requirements, collaborating with stakeholders, and applying robust Systems Engineering principles. Candidates should have a relevant STEM degree and experience in Systems Engineering methodologies. Salary ranges from £37,769 to £43,815, with additional benefits and flexible working options.

Benefits

Civil Service Pension

Flexible working

Learning and development opportunities

Qualifications

• Experience of using and applying Systems Engineering and/or Systems Thinking methodologies.
• Awareness of software engineering within hardware and embedded systems.
• Experience in working on complex and non-routine problems.

Responsibilities

• Define and refine system-level requirements with stakeholders.
• Develop Logical and Physical Enterprise Architecture models.
• Ensure technical integrity and safety across projects.

Skills

Systems Engineering

Analytical Thinking

Collaboration

Education

Relevant STEM-based degree

Job description

Overview

Are you ready to shape the future of Defence and Security? Join a pioneering team at the forefront of operationalising cutting-edge research into real-world capabilities across the Cyber and Electromagnetic Activities (CEMA) domain. We are looking for a dynamic Systems Engineer who thrives on complexity, innovation, and impact.

Dstl will give you the chance to work on unique capabilities, develop your technical knowledge and work with friendly colleagues to protect the UK through supporting current and future cyber operations. You will be part of a team that transforms research into reality and deliver work on nationally significant projects with real-world impact.

Responsibilities

• Define and refine system-level requirements in collaboration with stakeholders.
• Tackle complex, non-routine challenges through the development of Logical and Physical Enterprise Architecture models.
• Ensure technical integrity and safety across projects, applying robust Systems Engineering principles and frameworks.
• Champion open systems approaches by identifying and selecting standards and interfaces across the CEMA domain.
• Produce and maintain high-level technical documentation to communicate the broader technological vision.
• Shape, prioritise, and drive your own workstreams with autonomy and urgency.
• Gather and synthesise information from diverse sources into coherent, actionable insights.

What you will do

• Define system level requirements and work with stakeholders to draw out high-level requirements.
• Work on complex and non-routine problems, including the development of Logical and Physical Enterprise Architecture models.
• Oversee the technical and safety aspects of projects and ensure the appropriate Systems Engineering principles, standards and frameworks are followed.
• Identify, define and select standards and interfaces to enable an open systems approach across the full scope of the CEMA domain.
• Create and update high-level technical documentation to ensure others can follow and understand the bigger technological picture.
• Shape and prioritise your own work and drive it forward at pace.
• Gather relevant information from a range of sources and contextualise it into a coherent picture.

Requirements and Security

• Relevant STEM-based degree, or those with equivalent skills, qualifications or experience; experience of using and applying Systems Engineering and/or Systems Thinking methodologies.
• An awareness of software engineering and its application within hardware, embedded systems, and system implementation.
• Essential: Worked on complex and non-routine problems, drawing together disparate information and making meaningful technical assessments; persistence to cohere people and information for high-quality technical products; experience of using and applying Systems Engineering and/or Systems Thinking methodologies.
• Important information: Our work requires UK Nationals who are able to gain a high level of security clearance; only UK Nationals will be able to apply. Some roles require Developed Vetting (DV). You must have resided in the UK for the past 5 years (DV roles may require 10 years). See also security and vetting guidance and nationality requirements.
• If you are a current Dstl employee, obtain line manager awareness regarding release dates and potential impact on offers.

Rewards and Benefits

• Salary: £37,769 - £43,815 (dependent on experience and skills).
• Potential skill-set allowance (£1,000 - £4,500 per annum) payable three months after joining for specialist skills.
• Civil Service Pension with 28.97% employer contribution; Civil Service Defined Benefit Pension scheme details provided.
• Flexible working, annual leave, family leave, learning and development opportunities, and onsite facilities.

Working for Dstl

Attendance at a Dstl location is required for 60% of the working time, including visits to Government Departments, MoD partners, or Delivery and Mission Partners. You may be required to undergo a criminal record check and develop vetting as part of security requirements.