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# Principal Systems Architect

- **Company:** Babcock International
- **Location:** Bristol, United Kingdom (Remote available)
- **Contract:** Permanent contract
- **Skills:** Systems Engineering, Software Requirements Analysis, Systems Architecture
- **Published:** November 10, 2026
- **Apply:** https://jobs.babcockinternational.com/talentcommunity/apply/1455688833/?locale=en_GB

## About the Role

Essential experience of the Principal Systems Architect

 * Experience implementing MBSE solutions in the workplace, with excellent stakeholder management and communication skills.
 * A System Engineering background with exposure to the engineering design lifecycle, particularly for defence acquisition projects or similar industries.
 * Experience leading others, with the ability to motivate and develop team members at different stages in their careers.

Qualifications for the Principal Systems Architect

 * Engineering degree or equivalent work experience
 * Able to attain or already a Chartered Engineer

Security Clearance

The successful candidate must be able to achieve and maintain Standard (BPSS) / Security Check (SC) security clearance for this role.

## Description

As a Principal Systems Architect, you'll have the opportunity to help design and deliver the next generation of Weapon Handling and Launch Systems for the SSN AUKUS programme. This is a rare opportunity to influence complex, mission-critical defence capability, working at the forefront of engineering innovation and Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE). You'll lead architectural development activities, shape technical strategy, reduce programme risk, and help develop the next generation of systems engineering talent, all while contributing to projects that play a vital role in national security

Day-to-day, you'll be required to:

 * Define architecture-related deliverables and work packages, supporting the programme's progression through Babcock's engineering lifecycle phases and reviews. Developing the architecture in response to evolving programme needs. Maintain the Architecture Management Plan
 * Develop and lead the implementation of modelling best practice within the programme using the MagicGrid framework, aligning with Babcock group architecture capability.
 * Maintain and configure Babcock's architecture tool of choice (Cameo) within the programme, with support from IT and cross-sector stakeholders.
 * Develop architecture SQEP within the programme and ensure all architecture outputs are correct and are configuration managed.
 * Lead the architecture team to collaboratively develop the system architecture with technical stakeholders to represent the desired system behaviours and structure, incorporating middle-out design, identifying conflicts and voids, and ultimately reducing technical risk.
 * Direct the architecture development so it enables Requirements and Integration stakeholders to deliver the requirements lifecycle, including the development of system requirements, subsystem requirements, test and integration activity, and V&V.

This role is full time, 37 hours per week and provides hybrid working arrangements with 2 to 3 days in the office and the rest of week working from home.