> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/3768382-senior-principal-system-engineer](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/3768382-senior-principal-system-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).

---

# Senior Principal System Engineer

- **Company:** QINETIQ LIMITED
- **Location:** Portsmouth, UK
- **Experience:** Expert
- **Salary:** £72,000.0 - £80,000.0
- **Contract:** Permanent contract
- **Skills:** Systems Engineering, Enterprise Integration
- **Published:** October 16, 2026
- **Apply:** https://www.totaljobs.com/job/senior-principal-system-engineer/qinetiq-job108187174

## About the Role

Extensive Systems Engineering experience within Defence, Maritime or National Security environments
Proven leadership of large-scale System of Systems or enterprise integration programmes
Strong understanding of defence capability development and acquisition processes
Experience working with senior military, MOD or government stakeholders
Experience leading multidisciplinary engineering teams and technical delivery
Demonstrable ability to shape strategy, influence customers and develop future capability

Essential qualifications for the Senior Principal Systems Engineer:

Degree qualified in Engineering, Systems Engineering or a related discipline
Chartered Engineer (CEng) or equivalent professional registration

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 Portsmouth Technology Park site with a minimum average site attendance of three days per week.

Travel to other QinetiQ and customer sites will be expected.

## Description

As a Senior Principal Systems Engineer, you will help shape the future operating model of the Royal Navy by acting as a trusted technical advisor, influencing future capability development and leading the delivery of strategic Hybrid Navy solutions.

This is a rare opportunity to influence future Royal Navy capability planning, helping shape the operational and technical concepts that will underpin naval operations.

Day-to-day, you'll work directly with senior MOD and Royal Navy stakeholders, providing leadership across complex System of Systems programmes and helping define how future naval capabilities will integrate platforms, networks, autonomy, data and operational concepts.

Your responsibilities will include:
Leading System of Systems engineering activities across Hybrid Navy programmes
Providing strategic technical leadership to MOD and Royal Navy customers
Shaping future capability concepts and long-term defence solutions
Leading major technical bids, business development and customer engagement activities
Managing technical risk and assurance across complex programmes
Developing and mentoring high-performing systems engineering teams