Principal Research Engineer - Systems Engineering

Job Summary

Based at our Global Technology Centre Bristol we are looking for a Principal Engineer with a strong background in Systems Engineering to help shape the future of flight. Our aim is to deploy a modern systems engineering ethos across the broad domains within the portfolio (Software, Controls, Structures, Protoyping, Electrical & Cryogenic systems). Working in advancing technologies developing the key underpinning physics but also the methods, capabilities and evidence to support our prototypes, we want a dynamic and experienced individual to help us:

• Provide technical leadership across the full technology engineering lifecycle through using Systems Engineering methods appropriate to our needs.


• Evolve and grow our capability embedding this into each discipline within the portfolio & beyond to stakeholders and customers


• Ensure that systems engineering principles are applied consistently across the portfolio of programmes


• Champion the use of Model Based Enterprise toolsets to better manage technical projects, knowledge and progress.  

This role offers hybrid working.

How You'll Contribute

The Principal Research Engineer - Systems Engineering will contribute to the following:

System Engineering leadership – championing a systems thinking across the whole portfolio to align teams into a common alignment with the concept of ‘Best Fit’; Act as a technical authority and mentor across the portfolio in conjunction with the Tech Authority, manage reports and take responsibility for capability growth.

System Engineering Framework Development & Deployment - Define and maintain a Systems Engineering Framework that aligns to technology development in aerospace and tailored for the organisation’s portfolio.

Codebeamer Integration & Governance - Champion the use of Codebeamer as the tool for requirements capture and decomposition, Agile tasking across teams, Dash board Compliance reporting for safety, quality, and regulatory requirements, Wiki knowledge management.

Manage team and execution – Coach, support and develop the systems personnel reporting to the Principal Systems Engineer, including career progression, annual appraisals and clear goal setting. Develop a strategic plan for delivery of key systems programme aims. 

What You'll Bring

Essential Skills & Experience:

To help us make a difference, you’ll bring your passion and expertise/ talent for what you do along with the following skills, experience, qualifications and attributes:

• Expert in systems engineering lifecycle (ISO/IEC 15288, INCOSE) with experience in MBSE (e.g. SysML)


• Hands-on experience using Codebeamer (or similar tools) for requirements management, traceability, and reporting.


• Strong knowledge of requirements elicitation, decomposition, interface management, V&V planning, especially in a technical development environment.


• Framework & Process Development - Proven track record in defining and deploying SE frameworks across programmes, including championing change and mind-set development across teams and disciplines.


• Ability to integrate tools (e.g., Codebeamer, modelling environments) into a coherent digital-thread approach.


• Experienced in leading and mentoring cross-functional engineering teams.


• Has good interpersonal and communication skills and can translate to a variety of audiences. Is confident and able to represent their project(s)/Function/Discipline in internal/external environment.


• Education & Professional Standing; STEM degree with significant experience in systems engineering, Chartered Engineer (CEng), INCOSE CSEP/ESEP, or equivalent.

What We'll Offer

Once you’re on board, you’ll get the following perks and benefits:

• Competitive salary dependent on experience


• Up to 15% Bonus


• Industry Leading Pension Scheme = we’ll match your contributions up to 8% on a 1 : 1.5 basis (Employer max contribution 12%)


• Life Assurance 8 x salary


• 25 days holiday + bank holidays


• Flexible working hours including the ability to finish at 12noon on a Friday


• Income protection


• Shopping discounts


• Cycle To Work Scheme


• Employee Assistance Programme


• Virtual GP Clinic for you and immediate family