Principal Engineer – Systems Engineering (Architecture)

Job Title: Principal Engineer -Systems Engineering (Architecture)

Location: Coventry, Barrow, Filton, or Portsmouth Broad Oak, hybrid

We offer a range of hybrid and flexible working arrangements – please speak to your recruiter about the options for this particular role.

Salary: Negotiable dependent on experience

Who we are:

Join BAE Systems and you’ll be part of something bigger. As a valued member of our global colleague network, you’ll bring your unique skills and perspectives to help pioneer progress and protect what matters most. You’ll be trusted to play your part in delivering advanced, technology-led defence, aerospace and security solutions, shaping a safer future for all of us. From the depths of the ocean to the far reaches of space, there’s no limit to where a career at BAE Systems could take you.

What you will be doing:

In this role, you will apply Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) expertise to support the definition, design, analysis, verification and validation of complex defence systems. You will lead the development and application of system models that capture customer and user needs and ensure these are fully integrated into engineering design decisions, technical performance considerations and system behaviour.

Core duties:

• Apply Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) expertise to support requirements, design, verification and validation activities across complex systems
• Lead the development of system models capturing customer and user needs and ensure these inform system architecture and design decisions
• Ensure design assurance evidence is fully captured within MBSE models and appropriately endorsed in line with governance requirements
• Integrate and align multiple system models across wider platform architecture to ensure consistency and interoperability
• Support engineering management with key technical coordination, reporting and systems engineering activities
• Monitor engineering progress, identify technical risks or issues, and support recovery planning and corrective action
• Develop estimates for engineering scope, effort and resources to support planning and proposal activities
• Contribute to and support the development of others in MBSE practices and systems engineering capability across teams

Essential Skills:

• In-depth knowledge and practical experience of Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) within defence, maritime or a closely related industry
• Strong understanding of the engineering lifecycle and how systems engineering activities integrate across different phases
• Detailed knowledge of relevant engineering standards, including safety and environmental regulations
• Experience using systems engineering modelling tools such as Enterprise Architect (EA) or Cameo Systems Modeler
• Strong capability in SysML and systems modelling language application
• Experience working within complex engineering environments and applying systems thinking to large-scale products or platforms
• Demonstrated experience leading small technical teams and supporting the development of others

The Systems Engineering Team:

As a Principal Engineer in Systems Engineering (Architecture), you will play a critical role in defining and shaping system-level architecture for complex defence platforms. You will work closely with multi-disciplinary engineering teams, ensuring that system models provide a single source of truth for requirements, design intent, and verification evidence. This role offers the opportunity to work on some of the most advanced engineering programmes in the UK, contributing directly to the development of complex maritime defence capabilities while influencing how systems engineering and MBSE are applied across the organisation. Relocation support packages are available across all Submarines roles, subject to meeting eligibility criteria.

A place where everyone can thrive:

We’re committed to building an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and supported. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified people and encourage discussion of reasonable adjustments where needed.

Please be aware that many roles at BAE Systems are subject to security and export control restrictions. Applicants must meet Baseline Personnel Security Standard, and many roles require higher levels of National Security Vetting, including 5–10 years continuous UK residency depending on the role.

Why BAE Systems?

Here you’ll build a career with purpose and limitless possibilities. Lifelong learning, meaningful work, and a supportive culture enable you to grow with confidence. You’ll be recognised for your contribution and supported with rewards that matter most to you.

Closing Date: 2nd June 2026

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications. If you are interested, please apply as early as possible.

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