> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/3765303-principal-systems-engineer](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/3765303-principal-systems-engineer). Every page supports `.md` or `Accept: text/markdown`. Links point to the HTML versions so they work for humans too. Agent guide: [/agents.md](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/agents.md).

---

# Principal Systems Engineer

- **Company:** QINETIQ LIMITED
- **Location:** UK
- **Salary:** £63,900.0 - £71,000.0
- **Contract:** Permanent contract
- **Skills:** Systems Engineering, Cyber Security, Systems Integration, Computer Networking Systems, Information Technology
- **Published:** October 16, 2026
- **Apply:** https://www.totaljobs.com/job/principal-systems-engineer/qinetiq-job108187178

## About the Role

Experience delivering or supporting secure IT, communications or networked systems
Technical leadership experience within complex engineering or technology programmes
Strong stakeholder management and communication skills
Experience working within highly regulated or secure environments
Understanding of Secure by Design principles and systems assurance activities, Degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Physics, Mathematics or a related STEM discipline, or equivalent relevant experience
Demonstrable experience leading complex technical work within secure environments
Ability to obtain and maintain UK Developed Vetting (DV) clearance

We value difference and we don't have a fixed idea when it comes to background or education, provided you can show the required level of experience and willingness to learn then we would like to hear from you.

This role is 37 hours per week based at our Malvern site on a full-time basis. The Malvern facility is noted for its work in electronic warfare, surveillance and complex system integration, contributing significantly to the UK's defence capabilities. Developing technologies for military and civilian applications, including sensors, communications and cyber security.

Please note that all applicants for this role must be willing to go through DV Clearance.

## Description

As a Principal Systems Engineer, you will provide technical leadership across a portfolio of highly secure Defence and National Security programmes, helping to shape and deliver capabilities that support critical customer missions.

Day-to-day, you'll work with multidisciplinary engineering teams, customers and stakeholders to drive technical delivery, coordinate complex projects, manage technical risk, and ensure solutions meet demanding operational and security requirements. This is a unique opportunity to become a key technical leader within an established capability, with the opportunity to influence future growth and direction.

Your responsibilities will include:
Leading multidisciplinary engineering teams delivering secure customer capabilities
Providing technical leadership across multiple projects and workstreams
Defining technical approaches, requirements and engineering solutions
Managing stakeholders across customer, partner and internal communities
Supporting technical governance, risk management and programme delivery
Driving systems engineering best practice throughout the engineering lifecycle