Principal Systems Engineer

At Northrop Grumman UK, you will help shape the technology and solutions of tomorrow. As part of our team, you will contribute to solving some of the world’s most complex challenges. This is what we call Defining Possible.

This mindset powers our innovation, our impact, and your career development.

The Opportunity

This is more than just a job; it’s a mission.

As a Principal Systems Engineer, you will play a central role in delivering Systems Engineering activities across key defence programmes. You will support the full engineering lifecycle, from understanding customer needs through to system design, integration, acceptance and delivery.

You’ll work within our Defence Systems Engineering team, supporting programmes critical to UK national security, including multi‑domain command and control systems used across the Royal Navy and internationally. Your expertise will directly influence technical quality, design assurance and programme success.

What You Will Do

• Lead, conduct and deliver Systems Engineering work packages across the project lifecycle.
• Produce and review technical documentation in line with programme schedules.
• Plan, prepare and deliver key design reviews including SRR, PDR and CDR.
• Manage technical aspects of suppliers, ensuring alignment with requirements and design baselines.
• Review technical documentation from customers and suppliers, providing challenge and assurance.
• Integrate effectively with Hardware, Mechanical, Software, V&V, ILS, Cybersecurity and Safety teams.
• Provide technical leadership to deliver work packages on time, to cost and quality.
• Support risk management, opportunity assessments, bids, proposals and estimation activities.

What We’re Looking For

• Degree in Systems, Software, Electrical Engineering or a related field.
• 3–5 years’ experience in systems engineering within defence, maritime, aerospace or a regulated environment.
• Experience of system requirements, design, integration, acceptance and analysis.
• Knowledge of control systems, PLC/SCADA and operational technology.
• Experience with Model‑Based Design and tools such as Enterprise Architect.
• Strong interpersonal and stakeholder skills with the ability to influence at all levels.
• Experience in requirements management tools such as DOORS.
• Understanding of the marine environment, environmental standards and safety‑related systems.

Preferred

• Knowledge of V&V activities including environmental and EMC testing.
• INCOSE ASE or CSEP accreditation.

If you feel inspired by the role but don’t meet every requirement, we encourage you to apply.

Security Clearance

Due to the nature of our work, you must meet the nationality and residency requirements for UK Security Check (SC) clearance.

You must be able to gain and maintain SC clearance.

For questions, contact our recruitment team at talentenquiries@uk.ngc.com

• Flexible and hybrid working options, including a compressed fortnight with every other Friday off
• Cash health plan
• Holiday buy and sell options
• Career development, mentoring and professional trainingPerformance‑related bonuses

Why Join Us?

A Mission to Believe In

Work on technology that protects national security and supports operations across land, sea, air, space and cyberspace.

A Place to Belong and Thrive

Bring your authentic self to work and join an inclusive community supported by employee networks and partnerships across defence, engineering and wellbeing.

Shape your career journey with diverse roles, structured development, mentoring and opportunities to grow your expertise.

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