Lead Systems Engineer – Fluid Systems

About the role

We are seeking a Lead Systems Engineer specialising in aircraft fluid systems to join a major aerospace and defence programme. Based in Reading with a hybrid working model, you will drive the delivery of digital engineering capabilities, coordinating multidisciplinary teams, suppliers and stakeholders to ensure the programme meets its technical and schedule objectives.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the definition and implementation of Model‑Based Engineering and Digital Thread strategies for complex fluid systems such as fuel, hydraulics, environmental control, pneumatics, fire suppression, oxygen and thermal management.
• Manage the integration of CFD, 1‑D simulation, thermal analysis and 3‑D CAD piping/routing models into the engineering toolchain.
• Oversee configuration management and ensure compliance with aerospace standards (ARP4754A, ARP4761, DO‑160).
• Coordinate with suppliers and internal stakeholders, maintaining clear communication and risk mitigation throughout the product lifecycle.
• Support safety‑critical processes and contribute to continuous improvement of engineering practices.

Required profile

• 10+ years of experience in aerospace or defence programmes.
• Degree in Engineering, Aerospace, Mechanical or Systems Engineering.
• Active Security Check (SC) clearance.
• Proven experience delivering digital engineering solutions for aircraft fluid systems.

Required skills

• Model‑Based Engineering (MBE) and Digital Thread.
• Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and 1‑D system simulation.
• Thermal analysis and 3‑D CAD piping/routing.
• Configuration management and engineering toolchain integration.
• SAFe Agile methodology (desirable).
• Knowledge of ARP4754A, ARP4761 and DO‑160 standards.

What we offer

• 7‑month fixed‑term contract with competitive daily rate (£500‑£623) inside IR35.
• Hybrid working arrangement (office in Reading and remote).
• Opportunity to work on high‑visibility aerospace and defence projects.