Lead Systems Engineer

Job Description:

Your impact

Join Leonardo and play a pivotal role in developing the next generation of mission data tools in support of the Future Combat Air System – a cutting-edge, tri-national programme led by the UK, Italy and Japan.

We’re looking for a talented Lead Systems Engineer to drive innovation and shape the early design of software-led systems that will define the air defence capabilities of tomorrow.

What you will do as a Lead Systems Engineer:

• Collaborate with key stakeholders to understand and define complex problems and their operational context
• Develop of high-level concepts and system requirements that effectively address those challenges
• Work closely with related programmes to identify reuse opportunities and cost-saving synergies
• Produce high-quality engineering documentation, reports and customer/partner presentations
• Plan and deliver systems engineering work packages across the lifecycle
• Promote continuous improvement by identifying opportunities to “left-shift” key activities
• Provide mentoring and leadership to grow capability within your team and across the wider function

You’ll play a critical role in setting the direction and quality standards for mission data systems in one of the most advanced defence collaborations of the decade.

What you'll bring

We’re looking for someone with a strong background in systems engineering and a proven ability to lead multidisciplinary teams in a complex, software-intensive environment.

• Practical experience of leading software systems development through the full engineering lifecycle
• Excellent stakeholder management skills with the ability to balance diverse technical and business needs
• A passion for early-phase development, from concept exploration through to product maturation and assurance
• The ability to guide teams through problem definition, concept development, and trade-off decision making
• Experience applying Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) techniques to drive quality and traceability
• Familiarity with working alongside specialists in safety, security, reliability and other key disciplines

This is your opportunity to shape the future of air defence technology while building your leadership credentials within a supportive, forward-thinking environment.

This is not an exhaustive list, and we are keen to hear from you even if you might not have experience in all the above. The most important skill is a good attitude and willingness to learn.

Security Clearance

This role is subject to pre-employment screening in line with the UK Government’s Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS). An additional range of Personnel Security Controls referred to as National Security Vetting (NSV) may apply, this could include meeting the eligibility requirements for The Security Check (SC) or Developed Vetting (DV). 

Why join us

At Leonardo, our people are at the heart of everything we do. We offer a comprehensive, company-funded benefits package that supports your wellbeing, career development, and work–life balance. Whether you're looking to grow professionally, care for your health, or plan for the future, we’re here to help you thrive.

• Time to Recharge: Enjoy generous leave with the opportunity to accrue up to 12 additional flexi-days each year.
• Secure your Future: Benefit from our award-winning pension scheme with up to 15% employer contribution.
• Your Wellbeing Matters: Free access to mental health support, financial advice, and employee-led networks championing inclusion and diversity (Enable, Pride, Equalise, Armed Forces, Carers, Wellbeing and Ethnicity).
• Rewarding Performance: All employees at management level and below are eligible for our bonus scheme.
• Never Stop Learning: Free access to 4,000+ online courses via Coursera and LinkedIn Learning.
• Refer a friend: Receive a financial reward through our referral programme.
• Tailored Perks: Spend up to £500 annually on flexible benefits including private healthcare, dental, family cover, tech & lifestyle discounts, gym memberships and more.
• Flexible working: Flexible hours with hybrid working options. For part time opportunities, please talk to us about what might be possible for this role.

Leonardo is a global leader in Aerospace, Defence, and Security. Headquartered in Italy, we employ over 53,000 people worldwide including 8,500 across 9 sites in the UK. Our employees are not just part of a team—they are key contributors to shaping innovation, advancing technology, and enhancing global safety.

At Leonardo we are committed to building an inclusive, accessible, and welcoming workplace. We believe that a diverse workforce sparks creativity, drives innovation, and leads to better outcomes for our people and our customers. If you have any accessibility requirements to support you during the recruitment process, just let us know.

Be part of something bigger - apply now!

Primary Location:

GB - Luton - Cap. Green 300

Contract Type:

Permanent

Hybrid Working:

Hybrid