Principal Systems Engineer

Our client is seeking a Principal Mechanical Systems Engineer to support advanced radar system development within the defence and security sector. Based in Cowes, this six-month contract role will provide expert mechanical and systems engineering leadership across the complete engineering lifecycle, from requirements definition and system design through to integration, customer acceptance, support and disposal. Key Responsibilities: Develop innovative solutions to complex technical challenges associated with phased-array radar systems Lead system design analysis and manage trade-offs between key system parameters to support robust product development Apply Mechanical and Systems Engineering principles, including ISO 15288, across the full engineering lifecycle Lead the decomposition and management of system and subsystem requirements using approved tools such as IBM DOORS Next Direct architectural modelling, subsystem design decomposition and internal and external interface definition using tools such as CATIA Magic or Enterprise Architect Plan and lead system integration, testing, verification and validation activities, supporting the production of customer acceptance evidence Lead technical reviews and approve engineering designs and documentation in line with customer, legislative and business requirements Provide technical guidance to colleagues, support Design Authority activities and present technical information to internal and external stakeholders Job Requirements: Expert knowledge of Mechanical and Systems Engineering, systems thinking and holistic approaches to complex engineering problems Significant experience of complex system design and the full engineering lifecycle, including Waterfall and Agile development approaches Knowledge of Systems Engineering standards, such as ISO 15288 and ISO 24641 Experience of requirements and configuration management, ideally using IBM DOORS Next, and familiarity with tools such as JIRA Understanding of Model-Based Engineering, Model-Based Systems Engineering, digital threads, cyber security and safety procedures Experience of high-level design methodologies, such as UAF, NAF, TOGAF, SysML or UML Strong analytical, problem-solving and decision-making skills, with the ability to develop creative solutions to challenging engineering issues Relevant STEM degree or equivalent experience, with Chartered Engineer status or progress towards an equivalent professional accreditation Desirable Experience: Knowledge of mechanical engineering, signal processing, target track extraction or related systems engineering disciplines Experience working with radar, radio, satellite, sonar or other real-world sensing systems Familiarity with MATLAB, Simulink, Python, Perl or MathCAD Understanding of digital twins, autonomous systems, artificial intelligence, machine learning, augmented or virtual reality and the Internet of Things Knowledge of the defence industry, including relevant UK government strategy and geopolitical influences Key Skills: Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain complex technical information clearly Excellent interpersonal and influencing skills, with the confidence to guide stakeholders and technical teams Ability to present technical and non-technical information in formal settings Self-motivated, proactive and able to lead by example Good level of IT literacy and experience working with approved engineering toolsets The role holder will be expected to take reasonable care of their own health and safety, follow relevant instructions and training, report hazards or incidents, and support high standards of safety, health and environmental practice. If you are an experienced Principal Mechanical Systems Engineer with a background in complex radar or defence systems, apply now to support innovative engineering projects in Cowes.