System Engineer Lead – Command & Control Sub‑System (Contract)

About the role

This contract position is with a world‑class defence organisation in Bristol, leading the Command & Control sub‑system for the Royal Navy’s first operational Laser Directed Energy Weapon. The role offers high visibility across system design, software and algorithm teams and operates on a rapid delivery schedule.

Key responsibilities

• Provide day‑to‑day management, direction and technical leadership for the multi‑functional Common Architecture Team (CAT).
• Lead capture, derivation and refinement of subsystem requirements for the Command & Control element.
• Collaborate with CAT to develop the functional architecture of the Command & Control sub‑system.
• Identify functional risks, opportunities, issues and assumptions and define mitigation strategies.
• Track activities, produce project reports and ensure alignment with overall weapon system design.

Required profile

• Extensive experience as a senior systems engineer, systems engineering lead or technical lead within defence or aerospace projects.
• Proven product development and systems‑thinking mindset with a track record of delivering complex projects.
• Strong stakeholder management and ability to work under pressure to meet demanding timelines.
• Hands‑on experience across the full systems engineering lifecycle, especially functional design and development.

Required skills

• IBM Rhapsology
• IBM DOORS
• IBM Engineering

What we offer

• £70.00 per hour rate (time‑and‑a‑quarter overtime after 37 hours/week).
• Hybrid working – 3‑4 days onsite in Bristol, with a 4‑day week option (Monday‑Thursday).
• 6‑month contract with a strong likelihood of extension and long‑term opportunities.
• Inside IR35 umbrella arrangement.