Technical Lead - Naval Simulation Programme

Technical Lead - Naval Simulation Programme

Bristol (with travel to Portsmouth)

Hybrid working

UK Nationals UK Government clearance eligable

Are you a technically strong leader looking to take ownership of a complex, high-impact defence programme?

We are seeking a Technical Lead to play a pivotal role on a major Royal Navy simulation programme. This is a unique opportunity to step into a large, evolving environment where no two days are the same-offering real influence over technical direction, delivery, and team shape.

The Opportunity

You'll act as the technical authority across a major simulator programme, ensuring delivery meets the highest engineering standards while navigating the realities of a complex, fast-moving environment.

This is not a "steady-state" programme-there are challenges around funding, priorities, and structure, so we're looking for someone who thrives in ambiguity, can bring clarity, and drive outcomes.

You'll also have the opportunity to build and shape your own team and influence how the programme evolves.

Key Responsibilities

Lead the technical solution and delivery across a large-scale naval simulation programme
Act as the focal point for all technical decisions, providing clear leadership and direction
Take ownership as the technical authority, ensuring solutions meet required standards and outcomes
Coordinate technical activity across the full lifecycle (concept through to acceptance)
Engage with customers through reviews, demos, and acceptance activities
Ensure engineering work is well-defined, prioritised, and delivered to quality
Mentor and lead multidisciplinary teams, driving best practice and continuous improvement
Act as the key interface with internal teams, customers, and partners
Identify and manage technical risks and mitigation strategies
Support bids, changes, and proposals with technical input and estimation

What We're Looking For

Strong background in systems engineering
Experience leading delivery of complex, multi-disciplinary programmes
Proven ability to lead technical teams in challenging environments
Comfortable working in fast-paced, evolving, and sometimes ambiguous programmes
Strong stakeholder management and communication skills

Desirable

Experience with simulation technologies
Exposure to defence or naval environments

Why This Role?

Work on a critical, high-visibility defence programme
Operate with real ownership and technical authority
Opportunity to shape teams and influence delivery approach
Join a programme where your impact will be immediate and tangibleIf you're a hands-on technical leader who thrives in complexity and wants to make a real difference, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply or message me directly to find out more
Only candidates based in UK and eligible to work in UK are allowed