Principal Systems Engineer

Job Title: Principal Systems Engineer - Uncrewed Systems

Location: Salisbury

About the Role:

We are seeking an experienced and results-driven Principal Systems Engineer to support the governance and oversight of the design, development, and operation of Uncrewed Systems (UxS) across Air, Land, and Maritime domains. As a recognised expert in the field, you will ensure that technical risks are identified and mitigated, and that safety and regulatory requirements are met. This role involves reviewing technologies, regulatory operating permissions, safety arguments, CONOPS, operating manuals, and compliance evidence to meet business needs from R&D to T&E and service delivery.

Key Responsibilities:

• Ensure the use of an appropriate Safety Management System (SMS) to manage UxS-related risks.
• Provide direction and advice on UxS operations to ensure compliance with regulations and safety risk management.
• Promote a Just Culture to drive down Human Error opportunities and improve overall safety.
• Manage and maintain UxS to required standards and ensure compliance with legal requirements and company policies.
• Apply independent assurance from Technical Excellence to ensure technical practices meet appropriate standards.
• Produce and review an Audit Plan to ensure its effectiveness.
• Ensure the appointment and competence of personnel for required posts.
• Oversee Third Party Assurance of UxS activities conducted on behalf of the company.
• Ensure UxS-related procurement activities comply with regulatory requirements and company policies.
• Provide direction and advice to Capture and Delivery teams on UxS activities and programmes.
• Apply governance over continuing flightworthiness, seaworthiness, and roadworthiness of QinetiQ-operated UxS.
• Support safe delivery and compliance with regulatory requirements through a SQEP technical organisation.

Essential Skills and Qualifications:

• Degree in an applicable engineering subject.
• Recognised expert with a broad understanding of concepts and principles within their function.
• Experience in UxS design, certification, and operations management.
• Experience in developing safety arguments subject to regulatory approval.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to negotiate at higher levels.
• Recognised by regulators and customers as a Subject Matter Expert (SME).
• Proven ability to influence the future direction of regulation and shape customer requirements.
• Experience in engaging with key external stakeholders such as MOD Duty Holders, CAA, MAA, MCA, DMR, HSE.

Desirable Skills and Experience:

• Chartered Engineer status or working towards it.
• Knowledge of key UxS regulations.
• Strong analytical skills and sound engineering judgment.
• Ability to develop Safe Systems of Work within regulatory uncertainty.
• Resilience and the ability to work under time and budgetary pressures.

Personal Qualities:

• Drive and determination.
• Proactive and dynamic professional attitude.
• Pragmatic and reasonable approach.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to work collaboratively across teams.
• Efficient in providing concise and informative progress reports.