Lead Systems Engineer (Small)

I’m working with a well-established aerospace engineering organisation based in Wimborne, Dorset that designs and delivers specialist systems for fixed and rotary-wing aircraft.

The site focuses on complex fuel and mission-critical systems, including air-to-air refuelling equipment, refuelling probes, launch systems using both pneumatic and pyrotechnic technologies, and a range of defensive sub-systems. The work supports long-term international programmes and covers both new product development and in-service platforms.

 This role would suit an experienced engineer stepping into, or already operating at, Lead Systems Engineer level.  You’ll take technical responsibility for small to medium projects, or defined sections of larger programmes, working closely with project management and other engineering functions.
The position offers a good balance of hands-on systems engineering, project ownership, and technical leadership.

What You’ll Be Doing:
Leading engineering activity on assigned projects, including new product introductions, proposals, and in-service modifications or upgrades.
Planning and coordinating engineering tasks in collaboration with project management and cross-functional teams.
Acting as a technical interface with customers, ensuring requirements are understood, managed, and delivered.
Contributing across the full system lifecycle, including requirements capture, design, development, integration, verification, and qualification.
Identifying and managing technical risks and opportunities, maintaining system integrity and design traceability throughout the lifecycle.
Supporting apprentices and junior engineers through technical guidance and mentoring.
Managing engineering change and working with engineering leadership to ensure projects are appropriately resourced.Background & Experience:
Degree in a relevant engineering discipline (HNC or apprenticeship with equivalent experience will also be considered).
A minimum of 5 years’ experience in an engineering role within a complex or regulated environment.Skills & Approach:
Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to work effectively with customers and internal stakeholders.
Self-motivated and proactive, with a structured approach to problem-solving.
Experience working through engineering lifecycles, design reviews, and technical report writing.
Comfortable presenting technical information at different levels within an organisation.
Experience with project scheduling and prior engineering document sign-off would be advantageous, but not essential.This role involves access to US ITAR-controlled technology, goods, and information. As such, additional screening may be required as part of the recruitment process.

If you’d like to talk through the role properly and understand how it fits within the wider engineering team, I’m happy to have a confidential conversation.
Ian at Holt Engineering
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