Job Description

Principal Systems Engineer

Frimley (Hybrid – typically 3 days on site per week, subject to programme phase)

£57,500 – £61,500 (flexible for the right candidate) + Excellent Benefits

We’re hiring a Principal Systems Engineer to join a high-performing team delivering in-service support on the V-Class submarine platform. This is a hands-on leadership role focused on CCS design, working closely with engineering managers, suppliers, and wider stakeholders to keep one of the UK’s most complex defence programmes moving.

What you’ll be doing:

• Taking ownership of CCS design and supporting the Engineering Manager with programme delivery
• Leading scope control, design decisions, and managing design change activity across the lifecycle
• Coordinating and chairing design reviews, managing baselines and voids, and ensuring design governance is followed
• Reviewing technical requirements and architecture to ensure effective system integration across sub-systems and partner domains
• Acting as a subject matter expert in integration, validation and verification of systems

What we’re looking for:

• Strong background in network or software engineering, ideally with operational experience
• Technical leadership experience and the ability to take ownership of key issues
• Chartered Engineer (or working towards it)
• Hands-on experience with DOORS and a solid understanding of change management
• Combat Systems or submarine domain knowledge would be a strong advantage
• INCOSE or systems engineering qualifications also beneficial

Why apply?

You’ll be joining a close-knit core team of around 6–12 people, with wider collaboration across a group of ~30. The programme is high-impact and fast-moving, offering a chance to work at pace, influence direction, and own technical challenges end-to-end.

The role offers a strong overall package including competitive pension, flexible health and lifestyle benefits, share plans, and potential for annual incentive payments. Relocation support may be available for eligible candidates.

If you’d like to hear more about the role, feel free to get in touch.