Jobs in Hythe End

An established engineering organisation is seeking a highly experienced Senior Systems Engineer to act as System Design Authority on complex, high-value programmes.

You will lead the delivery of advanced systems involving specialist sensors, electronics, and signal processing (firmware and software), ensuring successful design, integration, testing, and customer acceptance.
This is a senior technical leadership role with responsibility for guiding multi-disciplinary teams, maintaining technical governance, and contributing to strategic development and innovation.

Key Responsibilities

Lead full lifecycle system design, development, integration, and acceptance
Provide technical leadership across multi-disciplinary engineering teams
Ensure systems meet operational and performance requirements
Engage with external stakeholders including government and industry partners
Conduct design reviews with internal teams and customers
Identify opportunities for system enhancements and future capability development
Support research activities, prototypes, and technical studies
Contribute to technical proposals and business development activities
Produce and present technical reports and documentation
Mentor and support the development of junior engineers
Advise senior leadership on technical strategy and direction About the Work

Projects are primarily focused on defence communications and sensor systems, including maritime applications, with opportunities to expand into adjacent domains such as navigation and timing systems.

About You

Strong background in systems engineering within defence or a related sector
Proven experience delivering complex systems (design through to integration and test)
Demonstrated technical leadership within engineering teams
Ability to communicate complex concepts to diverse stakeholders
Experience working across hardware, software, firmware, and mechanical disciplines
Innovative mindset with strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Comfortable working across multiple sites and with external partners
Eligible to obtain UK Developed Vetting (DV) security clearance Qualifications & Requirements:

Degree in Engineering (or equivalent experience)
Full UK driving licence
Willingness to travel (UK and occasional international) What’s on Offer

Competitive salary and benefits package
Flexible working with core hours
Paid overtime or time off in lieu
Generous holiday allowance (including additional leave options)
Pension with employer contribution
Private healthcare
Ongoing training and professional development
Salary sacrifice schemes (e.g. tech, electric vehicles, cycling)
Relocation support (where applicable)
Company-provided equipment for office and home working Why Join?

You’ll be part of a collaborative, agile organisation where technical expertise is valued and bureaucracy is minimal. The structure allows engineers to make a real impact while gaining exposure across the full engineering lifecycle and a diverse portfolio of projects.
The organisation is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce and encourages applications from underrepresented groups