Smiths Detection
Defense
PrincipalSystemsEngineer
Neural analysis suggests this role is
optimal for mid candidates.
“Principal Systems Engineer at Smiths Detection. Skills: Systems Engineering, Requirements Management, Verification, Compliance. Own system requirements. Ensure requirements traceability”
Industry & Context.
UK Security Clearance
What They're Looking For.
Must Have
Systems engineering background, Requirements management background, Verification background, Experience in regulated environments, Experience in safety-critical environments, Solid understanding of systems V-model, Own system-level decisions, Own system-level deliverables, Clear written communication skills, Clear verbal communication skills, Eligible to obtain UK Security Clearance, Bachelor's Degree or equivalent in engineering, Bachelor's Degree or equivalent in STEM subject, Verification & validation planning, Verification & validation execution, Producing design specifications, Reviewing design specifications, Producing verification reports, Reviewing verification reports, Producing certificates of design, Producing certificates of conformity, Reviewing certificates of design, Reviewing certificates of conformity, Familiarity with technical reviews, Familiarity with design reviews, Ability to learn standards, Ability to apply standards
Nice to Have
DOORS experience, MBSE experience, SysML experience
What You'll Do.
Own system requirements
Ensure requirements traceability
Manage systems compliance matrix
Compile verification evidence
Review verification evidence
Compare design documents
Deliver systems input
Coordinate systems engineering deliverables
Coordinate programme schedules
Act as senior technical contact
Provide responses to customer
Manage systems work packages
How You'll Work.
Team & Collaboration
Work with engineering teams; Work with science teams; Work with test teams; Work with production teams; Work with suppliers; Work with sub-contractors
Communication Scope
Clear responses; Factual manner
Process & Methodology
Schedule management
Full Job Description
Smiths Detection is a global leader in threat detection and screening technologies supporting aviation, ports & borders, defence, and urban security. With 5 R&D centres, 21 global offices, and 7 manufacturing sites, our 3,000 brilliant minds have spent over 40 years at the frontline, developing solutions that protect society from explosives, prohibited weapons, contraband, toxic chemicals, and narcotics. Every minute of every day, our technology and people help make the world a safer place. 👉 Learn more about what we do: https://youtu.be/JmcKLJTrHLc We are seeking a delivery‑focused Principal Systems Engineer to act as the systems lead on a UK defence programme. This role is not focused on hands‑on mechanical or electronic design. Instead, it centres on owning requirements, verification, and compliance, and ensuring all engineering outputs align precisely with customer and regulatory expectations. You will be the person who knows the system inside out and can confidently stand behind it with customers. This role suits someone who is: * Highly detail‑oriented * Comfortable working independently * Happy spending time reading, checking, and validating documentation * Confident engaging directly with customers in a clear, factual manner You will work closely with engineering, science, test and production teams, but your focus will be on requirements, verification, and evidence, rather than active design. Responsibilities will include: * Owning system requirements and ensuring full traceability through verification * Managing and delivering the systems compliance matrix * Compiling and reviewing verification evidence across Technology * Comparing test reports, design documents and certificates against hundreds of requirements * Delivering the systems input into formal design reviews, including Critical Design Reviews * Coordinating systems engineering deliverables and schedules across the programme * Acting as a senior technical contact for the customer, providing clear
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