Lead Systems Engineer

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Lead Systems Engineer to take ownership of large-scale, complex engineering projects within a highly regulated aerospace environment.

This role is ideal for a technically strong engineer who can lead multidisciplinary teams, manage system-level delivery, and drive projects across the full engineering lifecycle. You will play a key role in delivering advanced aerospace systems for global customers, ensuring performance, safety, and compliance at every stage.

Key Responsibilities for the Lead Systems Engineer

• Provide technical leadership across large projects or multiple smaller programmes
• Lead and support Project Engineers, offering guidance and direction
• Plan and manage engineering activities, including resource coordination and management plans
• Engage directly with customers, ensuring solutions meet expectations and requirements
• Lead design reviews and ensure alignment with airworthiness, safety, and regulatory standards
• Identify and manage technical risks and opportunities
• Oversee the full systems engineering lifecycle (requirements, design, integration, verification, validation, and qualification)
• Manage engineering change to maintain system integrity and traceability
• Collaborate with engineering leadership and programme teams to ensure effective resourcing and delivery
• Support continuous improvement and best practice across engineering processes

Skills & Experience required by the Lead Systems Engineer Essential

• Significant experience (typically 10+ years) in an engineering role
• Strong understanding of the systems engineering lifecycle and design review processes
• Experience leading projects and providing technical direction to teams
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to engage both customers and internal stakeholders
• Strong problem-solving skills and a proactive mindset
• Experience in technical report writing and documentation
• Comfortable presenting technical information at all levels

Desirable

• Degree in a relevant engineering discipline
• Experience with project planning and scheduling
• Previous engineering sign-off authority
• Exposure to aerospace, defence, or other safety-critical environments
• Experience in line management or indirect team leadership

What's on Offer for the Lead Systems Engineer

• Competitive salary and benefits package
• Opportunity to work on complex, high-impact engineering programmes
• Collaborative and dynamic team environment
• Ongoing learning and development opportunities
• On-site facilities including parking and gym access
• Clear opportunities for career progression and internal mobility
• Strong focus on employee wellbeing, safety, and long-term development

Please note

This role involves working with ITAR-controlled technology, and successful applicants may be required to undergo additional screening as part of the recruitment process.