> Markdown version of [/jobs/ext/4595951-principal-autonomous-systems-engineer](https://www.wearedevelopers.com/jobs/ext/4595951-principal-autonomous-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 Autonomous Systems Engineer

- **Company:** QinetiQ Group plc
- **Location:** Farnborough, UK
- **Salary:** £62,250.0 - £69,750.0
- **Contract:** Permanent contract
- **Skills:** Artificial Intelligence, Systems Engineering, SC Clearance, Information Technology, Modeling and Simulation
- **Published:** November 6, 2026
- **Apply:** https://careers.qinetiq.com/talentcommunity/apply/1454885533/?locale=en_GB

## About the Role

* Significant technical leadership experience within autonomy, robotics, defence, aerospace or related engineering environments
 * Strong understanding of autonomous systems, robotics, control systems or AI-enabled technologies
 * Experience leading complex technical programmes and engineering teams
 * Experience developing and delivering customer-focused technical solutions
 * Strong understanding of systems engineering principles and engineering governance
 * Experience supporting business growth, customer engagement or strategic technical development

Essential qualifications for the Principal Autonomous Systems Engineer :

 * Degree in Engineering, Physics, Applied Mathematics, Computer Science or another relevant STEM discipline
 * Active SC clearance is desirable

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 Farnborough site with a minimum average site attendance of three days per week. At our Farnborough site exciting work takes place at our state-of-the-art facility, with high-energy laser technologies, our 5m pressurised wind tunnel which has a simulation capability that is unique in the UK and our large research and development projects is a real hub of creativity, research and innovation. Join our talented teams of Engineers, IT & Cyber Specialists, Project Managers, Group Functions Teams and many more to provide future defences in the UK.

## Description

As a Principal Autonomous Systems Engineer, you'll provide technical leadership across autonomy programmes, influence strategic direction, mentor engineering teams and work directly with customers to deliver cutting-edge autonomous capabilities.

Day-to-day, you'll lead multidisciplinary teams, shape future autonomy solutions, support business growth activities and guide the successful delivery of complex programmes across air or maritime autonomy domains. We expect your time to be split approximately 70% on leadership and 30% on technical delivery work.

Your responsibilities will include:

 * Providing technical leadership across autonomy and autonomous systems programmes
 * Leading multidisciplinary engineering teams and mentoring senior engineers
 * Defining technical strategy and influencing future capability development
 * Engaging with customers and stakeholders to shape requirements and solutions
 * Supporting the development of autonomy software, modelling and simulation capabilities
 * Leading integration, demonstration and trial activities across defence programmes