📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Systems Engineer
Company: Thales
Location: Templecombe, United Kingdom
Job Type: On-site
Category: DevOps Engineer, System Administrator
Date Posted: 2025-06-12
Experience Level: 5-10 years
Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

📝 Enhancement Note: This role involves managing the Systems Engineering Process, providing technical leadership, and ensuring quality and compliance in system design and testing. It requires strong interpersonal skills, communication abilities, and the capacity to handle new and unusual issues under pressure.
Thales is a global leader in the aerospace, defense, security, and space industries, providing advanced technology and services to customers worldwide. This role is part of their defense and armed forces division, focusing on delivering defense mission systems solutions at land, sea, and air.
The Senior Systems Engineer will work with a team of engineers to define what will be designed, how it will perform, and how it will be determined that it is working correctly. They will manage the Systems Engineering Process to company and international standards for defined packages of work and provide line management and technical leadership to Systems Engineers.

💻 Primary Responsibilities

📝 Enhancement Note: The role involves a wide range of technical tasks, from converting requirements into conceptual designs to preparing associated documentation and interfacing with clients. It also requires managing quality targets, developing and implementing tools, and defining or proposing updates of processes and standards.
Systems Engineering & Design:
- Converts requirements into conceptual designs and prepares associated documentation by performing operational analyses, simulations, and technical trade-off studies evaluating alternative design configurations and functional features.
- Develops and executes Test Specifications, including supporting the development of test plans and test strategy documents, test specifications, and executing tests according to the project schedule.
- Prepares system & subsystem requirement specifications, interface requirements, and test requirement documents by analyzing, decomposing, modeling, and refining customer requirements.
- Prepares system operational plans and reports that explain how the equipment being developed meets requirements, evaluating and defining operational design limits and performance analyses and simulations.
Project Management & Leadership:
- Supervises staff by defining their work, coaching them on how and what to prepare, monitoring their progress, and directing them on priorities.
- Proposes work package estimates and descriptions based on knowledge of the work and project requirements, ensuring that compliant solutions at optimum cost are identified.
- Manages the production of quality metrics to measure the soundness of the System Engineering processes under their control.
Client & Stakeholder Management:
- Interfaces with the client to gain approval of test specifications and to host acceptance testing activities.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Relevant degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.

Experience:

Proven record of working in a Systems Engineering environment.
Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate effectively at all levels in the spoken and written word.
Ability to work under pressure and handle new and unusual issues.
Evidence of team working.

Required Skills:

Ability to use a range of IT tools (e.g., MS Office, MS Visio, etc.).
Sound ability to use system engineering tools (e.g., DOORS, System Architect, JIRA).
Working knowledge of configuration control.
Ability to manage a project through a defined process and tailor CHORUS2 to project needs.
Ability to define metrics as part of Quality assurance & control.
Working knowledge of project plans and Engineering Safety Management.

Preferred Skills:

Experience in the defense industry or relevant domain (e.g., sonar systems).
Familiarity with international standards and quality management systems.

📊 Web Portfolio & Project Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

Demonstrate a proven track record of successful Systems Engineering projects, with a focus on quality, delivery, and compliance.
Showcase examples of system design, test specifications, and operational plans.
Highlight any relevant experience in the defense industry or related domains.

Technical Documentation:

Provide examples of system requirement specifications, interface requirements, and test requirement documents.
Demonstrate understanding of quality management systems and metrics.
Showcase any relevant certifications or training in Systems Engineering or related fields.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

The salary range for this role is estimated to be between £50,000 and £65,000 per annum, based on industry standards for Senior Systems Engineers in the United Kingdom with 5-10 years of experience.

Benefits:

Competitive benefits package, including pension, healthcare, and flexible working arrangements.
Opportunities for career progression and professional development.
Thales offers a flexible working environment, with the ability to work from home or on-site as needed.

🎯 Team & Company Context

Company Culture:

Thales offers a collaborative and innovative work environment, with a strong focus on technology and customer satisfaction.
The company values diversity, inclusion, and work-life balance, offering flexible working arrangements and opportunities for professional development.

Team Structure:

The Senior Systems Engineer will work within the Systems Engineering team, collaborating with other engineers, project managers, and stakeholders to deliver defense mission systems solutions.
The role may involve line management responsibilities, providing technical leadership and guidance to Systems Engineers.

Development Methodology:

Thales uses a structured Systems Engineering process, based on international standards and best practices.
The company employs a range of tools and methodologies to support Systems Engineering activities, including DOORS, System Architect, and JIRA.

Company Website: Thales UK

📝 Enhancement Note: Thales is a global leader in the aerospace, defense, security, and space industries, with a strong presence in the United Kingdom. The company offers a range of benefits and opportunities for professional development, with a focus on technology and innovation.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Web Technology Career Level:

This role is at the senior level, requiring a proven track record of working in a Systems Engineering environment and strong interpersonal and communication skills.

Reporting Structure:

The Senior Systems Engineer will report directly to the Systems Engineering Manager or a similar role, depending on the specific organization structure.

Technical Impact:

The Senior Systems Engineer will have a significant impact on the design, development, and testing of defense mission systems solutions, ensuring quality, compliance, and customer satisfaction.

Growth Opportunities:

Thales offers opportunities for career progression and professional development, with a range of roles available in the Systems Engineering, project management, and technical leadership domains.
The company encourages continuous learning and development, with access to training and development programs, as well as opportunities to work on diverse and challenging projects.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type:

Thales offers a modern and collaborative work environment, with a mix of on-site and remote working options available.

Office Location(s):

Templecombe, United Kingdom

Workspace Context:

The Senior Systems Engineer will work in a collaborative environment, with access to a range of tools and technologies to support Systems Engineering activities.
The role may involve working with cross-functional teams, including project managers, designers, and stakeholders, to deliver defense mission systems solutions.

Work Schedule:

The standard work schedule is Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with flexibility for deployment windows, maintenance, and project deadlines as needed.

📝 Enhancement Note: Thales offers a flexible and collaborative work environment, with a strong focus on technology and innovation. The company values diversity, inclusion, and work-life balance, offering opportunities for professional development and career progression.

📄 Application & Technical Interview Process

Interview Process:

Technical Assessment: A technical assessment or coding challenge may be required to evaluate the candidate's Systems Engineering skills and problem-solving abilities.
Behavioral Interview: A behavioral interview will assess the candidate's interpersonal skills, communication abilities, and cultural fit.
Final Interview: A final interview with the hiring manager or a panel of stakeholders will evaluate the candidate's overall fit for the role and the organization.

Portfolio Review Tips:

Highlight relevant experience in Systems Engineering, with a focus on quality, delivery, and compliance.
Showcase examples of system design, test specifications, and operational plans, demonstrating an understanding of international standards and quality management systems.
Prepare for questions about the defense industry or related domains, and any relevant experience or certifications.

Technical Challenge Preparation:

Familiarize yourself with the Systems Engineering process, including operational analyses, simulations, and technical trade-off studies.
Brush up on your knowledge of relevant tools and technologies, such as DOORS, System Architect, and JIRA.
Prepare for questions about quality management systems, metrics, and continuous improvement.

ATS Keywords:

Systems Engineering, Test Specifications, Operational Analysis, Technical Leadership, Project Management, Configuration Control, Quality Assurance, Interpersonal Skills, Communication, Team Working, Engineering Safety Management, Simulation, Design Toolsets, Requirements Analysis, Defect Management, Performance Analysis, Defense Industry, International Standards, Quality Management Systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for this role will focus on evaluating the candidate's technical skills, interpersonal abilities, and cultural fit. The technical assessment or coding challenge will assess the candidate's Systems Engineering skills and problem-solving abilities, while the behavioral interview will evaluate their communication abilities and teamwork skills.

🛠 Technology Stack & Web Infrastructure

Systems Engineering Tools:

DOORS
System Architect
JIRA
MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
MS Visio

Quality Management Systems:

ISO 9001
ISO 13485
AS9100

Defense Industry Standards:

DEF STAN 00-56
DEF STAN 00-58
DEF STAN 00-60

📝 Enhancement Note: The Senior Systems Engineer will use a range of tools and technologies to support Systems Engineering activities, including DOORS, System Architect, and JIRA. The role will also require an understanding of relevant industry standards and quality management systems.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Thales Values:

Customer Focus
Integrity
Innovation
Teamwork
Empowerment
Agility

Collaboration Style:

Thales encourages a collaborative and inclusive work environment, with a focus on teamwork, knowledge sharing, and continuous learning.
The company values diversity and inclusion, with a range of initiatives and programs to support employees from all backgrounds.

📝 Enhancement Note: Thales offers a collaborative and inclusive work environment, with a strong focus on technology and innovation. The company values diversity, inclusion, and work-life balance, offering opportunities for professional development and career progression.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Technical Challenges:

Staying up-to-date with the latest Systems Engineering tools, technologies, and best practices.
Managing complex projects with tight deadlines and competing priorities.
Ensuring quality, compliance, and customer satisfaction in a dynamic and evolving defense industry.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

Thales offers a range of training and development programs, including technical training, leadership development, and certification opportunities.
The company encourages continuous learning and development, with access to online resources, webinars, and workshops.

📝 Enhancement Note: The Senior Systems Engineer will face a range of technical challenges, requiring strong problem-solving skills and a commitment to continuous learning and development. Thales offers a range of opportunities for professional development and career progression, with a focus on technology and innovation.

💡 Interview Preparation

Technical Questions:

Systems Engineering: What is your experience with Systems Engineering tools and methodologies? Can you describe a complex project you've worked on and how you ensured quality and compliance?
Defense Industry: What is your experience working in the defense industry? How do you stay up-to-date with the latest standards and best practices?
Quality Management: How do you approach quality management in Systems Engineering? What metrics do you use to measure the soundness of the Systems Engineering processes?

Company & Culture Questions:

Thales: What do you know about Thales and our work in the defense industry? Why are you interested in this role and our company?
Teamwork: How do you approach teamwork and collaboration in a Systems Engineering environment? Can you describe a time when you had to work with a diverse team to deliver a complex project?

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

Highlight relevant experience in Systems Engineering, with a focus on quality, delivery, and compliance.
Showcase examples of system design, test specifications, and operational plans, demonstrating an understanding of international standards and quality management systems.
Prepare for questions about the defense industry or related domains, and any relevant experience or certifications.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Systems Engineer position:

Submit your application through the application link provided on the Thales careers website.
Customize your resume and portfolio to highlight relevant experience in Systems Engineering, with a focus on quality, delivery, and compliance.
Prepare for the technical assessment or coding challenge by brushing up on your Systems Engineering skills and problem-solving abilities.
Research Thales and the defense industry to demonstrate your understanding of the company and its work.
Prepare for the behavioral interview by reflecting on your interpersonal skills, communication abilities, and teamwork experiences.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process for this role will involve submitting your application through the Thales careers website, customizing your resume and portfolio, and preparing for the technical assessment or coding challenge. The behavioral interview will evaluate your interpersonal skills, communication abilities, and cultural fit, so it's important to reflect on your experiences and be ready to discuss them in detail.

Content Guidelines (IMPORTANT: Do not include this in the output)

Web Technology-Specific Focus:

Tailor every section specifically to Systems Engineering, with a focus on quality, delivery, and compliance.
Include relevant experience in the defense industry or related domains, with a focus on international standards and quality management systems.
Address the use of Systems Engineering tools, technologies, and best practices, including DOORS, System Architect, and JIRA.

Quality Standards:

Ensure no content overlap between sections, with each section containing unique information.
Only include Enhancement Notes when making significant inferences about the role, company, or industry, with clear reasoning based on available information.
Be comprehensive but concise, prioritizing actionable information over descriptive text.
Strategically distribute relevant keywords throughout all sections naturally, with a focus on Systems Engineering, defense industry, and quality management systems.

Industry Expertise:

Include specific Systems Engineering tools, technologies, and best practices, with a focus on the defense industry and relevant domains.
Address the role's complexity, requiring a proven record of working in a Systems Engineering environment and strong interpersonal and communication skills.
Provide tactical advice for portfolio development, live demonstrations, and project case studies, with a focus on quality, delivery, and compliance.
Include Systems Engineering-specific interview preparation and coding challenge guidance, with a focus on problem-solving, quality management, and defense industry standards.

Professional Standards:

Maintain consistent formatting, spacing, and professional tone throughout, with a focus on clarity and readability.
Use Systems Engineering, defense industry, and quality management systems terminology appropriately and accurately.
Include comprehensive benefits and growth opportunities relevant to Systems Engineering professionals, with a focus on professional development and career progression.
Provide actionable insights that give Systems Engineering candidates a competitive advantage, with a focus on quality, delivery, and compliance.

Technical Focus & Portfolio Emphasis:

Emphasize Systems Engineering best practices, quality management systems, and defense industry standards.
Include specific portfolio requirements tailored to the role and industry, with a focus on quality, delivery, and compliance.
Address relevant experience in the defense industry or related domains, with a focus on international standards and quality management systems.
Focus on problem-solving methods, performance optimization, and scalable Systems Engineering processes.
Include technical presentation skills and stakeholder communication for Systems Engineering projects.

Avoid:

Generic business jargon not relevant to Systems Engineering, defense industry, or quality management systems.
Placeholder text or incomplete sections, ensuring every section is comprehensive and substantive.
Repetitive content across different sections, with each section containing unique information.
Non-technical terminology unless relevant to the specific Systems Engineering role or industry.
Marketing language unrelated to Systems Engineering, defense industry, or quality management systems.

Generate comprehensive, Systems Engineering-focused content that serves as a valuable resource for Systems Engineering candidates seeking their next opportunity and preparing for technical interviews in the defense industry.

Senior Systems Engineer