Test Capability Lead - Global Combat Air Programme

TN United Kingdom; Bristol; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Test Capability Lead to spearhead a pivotal role within the Global Combat Air Programme. This exciting position involves developing and implementing a comprehensive test capability to support the ambitious Tempest project, which aims to revolutionize air combat by 2035. The ideal candidate will possess strong systems engineering skills, stakeholder management expertise, and a passion for innovation. Join a forward-thinking team that values diversity and collaboration, and contribute to cutting-edge advancements in aerospace and defense technology.

Qualifications

• Strong Systems Engineering skills across the lifecycle.
• Experience in developing strategic roadmaps and automated test capabilities.

Responsibilities

• Develop and lead a complex Test Capability programme from strategy to implementation.
• Create a Test Capability roadmap aligned with GCAP and internal engineering strategies.

Skills

Systems Engineering

Stakeholder Relationship Management

Problem Solving

Communication Skills

Strategic Roadmap Development

Test Capability Development

Education

Degree in Science/Technology/Engineering/Math

Job description

The provided job description is comprehensive and well-structured, but it can be improved for clarity and readability. Minor formatting adjustments using HTML tags will enhance user engagement. Here is a refined version:

Test Capability Lead - Global Combat Air Programme, Bristol

Client: Leonardo

Location: Bristol, United Kingdom

Job Category: Other

EU work permit required: Yes

Job Reference: f921b7f223ee

Job Views: 12

Posted: 26.04.2025

Expiry Date: 10.06.2025

Job Description

The Test Capability Lead is a new and exciting leadership role within the Future Combat Air (FCA) Line of Business (LoB). This role will enable Leonardo to meet the challenges of a highly successful and growing business by delivering a robust and effective test capability supporting the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), which aims to deliver Tempest, the 6th Generation fighter aircraft replacing the Royal Air Force Typhoon fleet by 2035.

Leonardo UK is pushing technical boundaries in advanced tactical sensing, data fusion, communications, machine learning, defensive aids systems, and through-life services to enable Tempest to operate in highly contested environments. The role involves collaboration with the Ministry of Defence and industry partners to integrate these capabilities within Tempest and establish enterprise infrastructure.

While some on-site work is expected for collaboration and secure working, flexible working arrangements are possible from any of Leonardo’s Electronics UK sites. The role also involves UK travel and international travel to Italy and Japan.

Responsibilities

• Develop and lead a complex Test Capability programme from strategy to implementation.
• Gather inputs from stakeholders to support Test & Evaluation plans, identifying schedules, dependencies, and constraints.
• Create a Test Capability roadmap aligned with GCAP and internal engineering strategies, incorporating future standards and regulations.
• Represent Leonardo as an SME, liaising with UK and international partners to influence future work practices and plan transformations.
• Build and lead a team to implement the Test Capabilities, supporting synthetic environment trials and airborne testing.
• Deliver the Test Capability roadmap within quality, budget, and schedule constraints, including proof-of-concept demonstrations.

Candidate Profile

We are seeking a systems thinker with:

• A relevant Science/Technology/Engineering/Math degree or equivalent experience.
• Strong Systems Engineering skills across the lifecycle.
• Enthusiasm for new challenges and knowledge sharing.
• Stakeholder relationship skills to interpret and influence user needs.
• Experience in defining requirements in uncertain domains.
• Effective communication, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
• Experience in developing strategic roadmaps and automated test capabilities.

Security Clearance

Candidate must be eligible for full security clearance.

Diversity and Inclusion

Leonardo values diversity and inclusion, welcoming applications from all backgrounds to build stronger teams.

About Leonardo

Leonardo is a global high-tech company in Aerospace, Defence, and Security, with over 45,000 employees worldwide, including 7,000 in the UK. The role is part of the FCA within Leonardo’s Electronics Division, focusing on advanced electronic systems for defence markets, including the GCAP.