Principal Systems Engineer
// Role Summary
Leverage your expertise as a Systems Engineer or Scientist with an electronics background to deliver cutting-edge Electro-optic/InfraRed (EO/IR) capabilities. This role offers the opportunity to bridge theoretical possibilities with practical implementation within a dynamic and growing Detectors business area.
// Key Responsibilities
- Deliver advanced EO/IR capabilities across Detector products.
- Apply systems engineering principles across the full product lifecycle.
- Collaborate with integrated project teams to design, build, and deliver complex equipment.
- Influence technical vision and drive decisions in a dynamic environment.
- Hybrid working options available with flexible hours.
// Role Specification
Principal Systems Engineer - Detectors
We are seeking an experienced Systems Engineer or Scientist with a strong electronics background to join our growing Detectors Area of Business. In this pivotal role, you will apply your expertise to deliver cutting-edge Electro-optic/InfraRed (EO/IR) capabilities across our Detector products.
Based at our dedicated site in Southampton, this permanent position offers the chance to work on exciting, challenging, and complex projects within a diverse product portfolio of EO/IR technologies. You will play a crucial role in bridging the gap between theoretical possibilities and practical implementation, working on programmes at various stages of their development lifecycle.
Your Impact
As a Systems Engineer, you will be instrumental in integrating various engineering and technology strands to create high-performance systems. Your typical responsibilities will include:
- Conducting applied research to explore new technologies and concepts.
- Leading requirements capture, definition, development, modelling, manufacture, test, and verification of EO/IR technologies.
- Applying and improving systems engineering processes throughout the full lifecycle.
- Collaborating with integrated project teams to design, build, and deliver EO/IR equipment.
Success in this role requires a passion for systems thinking, experience in forming and leading high-performing teams, and the ability to influence stakeholders. You will thrive in dynamic environments, demonstrate resilience under pressure, and be adept at making quick, informed decisions while setting a clear technical vision.
We understand the importance of work-life balance and offer flexible working arrangements, combining home and on-site working to deliver effective results.
What You'll Bring
We are looking for individuals with an electronics background and proven domain experience in EO/IR technologies. Key attributes include:
- Acting as the focal point for systems engineering governance on projects.
- Proficiency in requirements capture and management, system definition and development, modelling and analysis, and verification and validation.
- Experience applying systems engineering across the full engineering lifecycle.
- Experience working in product development teams to deliver engineering artefacts successfully.
- Proven ability to manage and collaborate with internal and external stakeholders.
- Strong decision-making skills within high complexity, dynamic environments.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build trust and respect across different levels.
- Motivation, tenacity, and determination to deliver results.
Desirable experience and skills include a PhD, EngD, or postgraduate degree in electro-optics, experience with Model Based Design (MBD) tools and methodologies, proficiency with modelling tools (e.g., Mathcad, MATLAB, Simulink), experience with data acquisition tools (e.g., LabView), and familiarity with requirement management tools (e.g., DOORS, Polarion, Jama). Even if you don't meet all these criteria, we encourage you to apply if you have a positive attitude and a willingness to learn.
Security Clearance
This role is subject to pre-employment screening in line with the UK Government’s Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS). Additional Personnel Security Controls, including National Security Vetting (NSV), may apply, potentially including eligibility for Security Check (SC) or Developed Vetting (DV).
Salary Range
£53,000 - £71,400
Why Join Us
At Leonardo, our people are central to our success. We offer a comprehensive, company-funded benefits package designed to support your wellbeing, career development, and work-life balance. This includes:
- Generous leave with up to 12 additional flexi-days per year.
- An award-winning pension scheme with up to 15% employer contribution.
- Free access to mental health support, financial advice, and inclusion-focused employee networks.
- Eligibility for our bonus scheme (for management level and below).
- Free access to over 4,000 online courses via Coursera and LinkedIn Learning.
- A financial reward through our refer-a-friend programme.
- Up to £500 annually for flexible benefits, including private healthcare, dental, family cover, tech & lifestyle discounts, and gym memberships.
- Flexible working hours with hybrid working options.
Leonardo is a global leader in Aerospace, Defence, and Security, committed to building an inclusive, accessible, and welcoming workplace where diversity drives innovation. We encourage applications from all candidates and are happy to accommodate accessibility requirements during the recruitment process.
Be part of something bigger - apply now!