Role Overview
Our world‑leading Time and Frequency Department at the National Physical Laboratory (NPL) seeks a Lead Systems Engineer with experience across full lifecycle system engineering and leadership of complex systems architecture. This is an exceptional opportunity to join the global authority in precision timing at a defining moment for UK digital infrastructure.
Backed by a government investment of £180 million in the National Timing Centre (NTC) programme, we are developing a world‑first resilient time distribution capability that will provide industry with a robust complement to satellite systems (such as GPS) – which are increasingly vulnerable to disruption from solar storms, jamming and spoofing. This will underpin essential services, including:
- Telecommunications
- Online banking
- Emergency response
- Transport networks
- Wider digital and data‑driven operations
Together, these services form the backbone of modern society – and your leadership will help ensure they remain secure, reliable and robust even if global navigation satellite systems fail.
Key Responsibilities
- Collaborative Technical Leadership: Lead with influence across multi‑disciplinary teams and senior stakeholders; shape technical strategy, foster strategic partnerships and deliver impactful outcomes aligned with NPL’s mission.
- Risk Management & Mitigation: Oversee the delivery of solutions that address ambiguity and challenges in a timely manner, ensuring that risks are effectively identified, emergent system properties are managed and effective mitigation actions are clearly communicated.
- Systems Engineering Maturation: Drive the advancement of Systems Engineering within the Time & Frequency department; establish world‑class practices, develop innovative solutions and build new capabilities aligned with NPL’s strategic direction.
- Architectural Integrity: Maintain a robust system of systems architecture and maintain integrity across subsystems throughout the full lifecycle from requirements to IV&V.
- Quality & Compliance: Ensure adherence to governance standards across quality, health, safety, security and environmental legislation; minimise business risk and enhance NPL’s reputation.
- Team Leadership: Inspire and lead your team to achieve high performance, foster motivation and support individual potential and development.
About You – Essential
- A degree (or equivalent qualification) in a relevant technical field such as Systems Engineering, Computer Science or Electronic Engineering.
- Experience applying Systems Engineering across the full delivery lifecycle with leadership experience in some areas.
- Experience working on large technical delivery programmes and engaging with key stakeholders to address evolving requirements.
- Strong written and oral communication skills with the ability to explain complex technical concepts.
- Familiarity with development lifecycles and methodologies (such as Vee model, agile, spiral development).
Highly Desirable
- Experience in time and frequency measurement and time scales.
- Experience working on complex system of systems architecture and deliveries.
- Experience of Model Based System Engineering (MBSE) and using tools such as Sparx Enterprise Architect.
- Chartered Engineer status with a relevant Institution.
- Experience working in cutting‑edge innovation and transitioning concepts through to operation.
- Knowledge of cybersecurity principles for critical infrastructure.
- Leadership in technical innovation and capability building.
- Previous experience leading a team in the design of complex systems.
Security and Clearance Requirements
- To work at NPL you will need to obtain BPSS security clearance.
- To work in this role in the Time & Frequency department, you will need to have an SC clearance with no restrictions, or you must have the ability to obtain an SC clearance.
Equal Opportunity Statement
NPL welcomes applications from all candidates irrespective of background, gender, race, sexual orientation, religion or age. We are committed to diversity and inclusion and provide reasonable adjustments to support candidates throughout the recruitment process.
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