Principal Systems Engineer

Principal Systems Engineer (Contract)

Location: South of England (hybrid)

Duration: Initial 6 months Possible extensions

Clearance: SC preferred

We’re supporting a well-established UK engineering organisation delivering specialist infrastructure and facility upgrades within highly regulated environments. They’re looking for a Principal Systems Engineer to support complex building and facilities programmes using structured systems engineering approaches. The work focuses on upgrading critical test and operational environments across secure sites.

The Role

You’ll provide technical leadership across infrastructure projects, supporting delivery from requirements through to installation and handover. Working closely with project teams and stakeholders, you’ll help shape practical engineering solutions while managing integration and acceptance activities.

Essential Experience

• Proven track record leading systems engineering delivery on complex infrastructure or facility upgrade programmes.
• Hands-on experience producing systems engineering artefacts across the full lifecycle.
• Strong background in systems integration (facilities, equipment, control, communications, IT/software).
• Experience working with safety-critical or safety-related systems.

What We’re Looking For

• Strong experience in systems engineering on infrastructure or facility upgrade projects.
• Background in regulated environments (defence, nuclear, rail, aviation, or similar).
• Good understanding of systems integration across facilities, equipment, and control systems.
• Comfortable producing core engineering documentation.
• Confident engaging with stakeholders and supporting multidisciplinary teams.
• Degree qualified (or equivalent experience). Chartership desirable.