Systems Engineering Lead

A Contract position Outside IR35

Hybrid working

Essential: Proven Lead Systems Engineering experience on Defence Vehicle Platforms

Our client, a leading player in the automotive sector, is currently seeking a Systems Engineering Lead on a contract basis, to join their team. This role focuses on vehicle-level design and integration of defence platforms, emphasising chassis, steering, suspension, and overall mobility performance.

Key Responsibilities

Lead the system-level architecture and integration

Define and integrate key vehicle subsystems, ensuring effective integration of the powertrain into the vehicle platform

Drive requirements capture, decomposition, and traceability, ensuring alignment with vehicle-level performance and mission needs

Deliver against critical performance measures such as mobility, ride dynamics, stability, durability, and reliability

Balance system trade-offs, optimising mobility, protection, payload, and power

Coordinate cross-functional teams to ensure coherent platform integration

Oversee vehicle-level verification and validation, including rig, subsystem testing, and full vehicle trials

Support safety case development and hazard analysis in line with defence standards

Manage system interfaces, configuration control, and vehicle-level BOM structures

Engage with suppliers for critical subsystems and mentor systems engineers within the team

Job Requirements

Significant experience in systems engineering, particularly within defence or heavy vehicle platforms

Proven knowledge of vehicle chassis, suspension, steering, and overall vehicle dynamics

Understanding of delivering reliable vehicles in extreme environments

Effective in system-level integration, ensuring cohesive vehicle performance

Relevant degree in Systems, Mechanical, Automotive, or Mechatronics Engineering

Proficiency in vehicle system architecture and platform integration

Experience with vehicle communication networks (CAN, J1939, MIL-STD)

Familiarity with FMEA, DFMEA, and system-level hazard analysis

Experience with DOORS NG, Polarion, or similar requirements tools

Desirable

Experience with defence applications

Knowledge of DEF STAN / MIL-STD requirements

Advanced suspension and steering technologies

Previous security clearance (BPSS, SC or higher)

If you are a Systems Engineering professional with robust experience in automotive defence platforms and seek a new challenge, we would love to hear from you. Apply now to become an integral part of our client's dynamic team