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Senior Systems Engineer – Defence & Technology

Location: Devon (Flexible / Hybrid Working Available)
Salary: £50,000-£60,000 (DOE) + Excellent Benefits
Clearance Required: Must be eligible for UK Security Clearance

Are you a systems thinker with a passion for innovation and leadership? We’re looking for a Senior Systems Engineer to join a cutting-edge engineering team working on complex, multidisciplinary products across the full lifecycle, from concept to delivery.

This is a great opportunity to play a pivotal role in shaping high-integrity solutions across electrical, electronic, hardware, and embedded software domains. You’ll be hands-on in project delivery and drive improvements in systems engineering practice, while mentoring and supporting the wider team.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Lead systems engineering activities across complex product development programmes.
• Drive process improvements, mentor colleagues, and enhance engineering best practices.
• Define and manage system-level requirements, from stakeholder input through to compliance.
• Design system architectures, perform trade-off analyses, and guide project decisions.
• Provide technical leadership throughout the design, integration, validation, and commissioning phases.
• Engage with project managers, supply chain, production, and customers to ensure success from concept to delivery.
• Support bid and proposal activities with technical expertise and creative solutions.

What We’re Looking For

• A degree in a relevant engineering discipline.
• A strong background in multidisciplinary systems engineering (min. 5 years).
• Experience across the full product development lifecycle.
• Practical understanding of electrical and electronic systems.
• Proven track record in leading technical teams and delivering successful outcomes.
• Strong communication, organisational, and mentoring skills.
• Passion for continuous improvement and innovation.

What’s In It for You

• 37.5-hour working week with early Friday finish
• Hybrid/flexible working arrangements
• 28 days holiday + Christmas closure + holiday purchase scheme
• Matched pension contributions up to 5%
• Income protection, life assurance & EAP (mental health, GP access, physiotherapy)
• Share schemes and electric vehicle salary sacrifice
• Wellbeing initiatives, sports/social activities, and discounts platform
• Rewarding referral scheme
• Excellent learning and development opportunities

Additional Information

You must be eligible for UK Security Clearance to apply. This includes proving your right to work and UK residency for the last five years.

Ready to lead, innovate, and make a real impact? Apply now and help shape something truly impactful.

Holt Executive are partnered with a Satellite and Space leader that provides reliable and secure satellite-delivered voice and high-speed data communications solutions to broadcast, telecommunications, corporate and government customers worldwide. They are now developing a LEO constellation that will revolutionize global broadband connectivity for enterprise.

Our partner is seeking a User Terminal Architect to play a vital role in in the design and development of next-generation satellite user terminals.

Key Responsibilities for the User Terminal Architect:

• Support the design, development, and optimization of Modem architectures.
• Drive trade-space discussions.
• Collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams to ensure that integration of the modem with other terminal components is seamless.
• Developing and implementing signal processing algorithms.
• Performance analysis, and test reviews of modem designs, including link budget analysis.
• Ensure compliance is met with relevant industry standards.
• Lead the development and testing of prototypes.
• Work with third-party vendors, manufacturers, and a cross-functional engineering and product team to ensure cohesion with the system design.

Key Skills & Experience for the User Terminal Architect: 

• A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Telecommunications, Computer Science, or a related field.
• 6+ years of experience in satellite communication systems, modem design, and ideally FPGA design and signal processing.
• Strong knowledge of digital communication systems, including modulation techniques, error correction methods, and RF systems.
• Proficiency with design and simulation tools such as MATLAB, Simulink, or similar. Experience with DSP programming is a plus.
• Experience with making trade-offs between performance and cost at the component and the system level.
• Experience with the full lifecycle of hardware and modem designs – from inception, design, production, and fielding.

 
The successful candidate must be able to work in the United States and obtain relevant clearances.

This opportunity offers a hybrid work model with 4 days in the office per week and occasional travel is anticipated.
 
If your skills and experience match this User Terminal Architect opportunity, we encourage you to apply now!

Holt Executive are partnered with a leading Global Satellite and Space leader that provides reliable and secure satellite-delivered voice and high-speed data communications solutions to broadcast, telecommunications, corporate and government customers worldwide. They are now developing a LEO constellation that will revolutionize global broadband connectivity for enterprise.
 
They require a Senior Systems Engineering Specialist – Communication Systems to play a crucial role in developing a revolutionary end-to-end satellite communication system. You’ll collaborate with experts across disciplines to design and define their system’s architecture.
 
Key Responsibilities for the Senior Systems Engineering Specialist – Communication Systems:

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define system architecture, system requirements, and network element specifications.
• Craft key aspects of the system, including communication protocols, resource allocation mechanisms, network entry mechanisms, management systems, and more.
• Lead and guide junior engineers, fostering their growth and expertise.
• Document the system architecture comprehensively for optimal performance and reliability.
• Collaborate with the System Integration and Test team for seamless integration of all system elements.
• Identify and manage technical risks related to the system design and develop mitigation strategies to stay ahead of industry trends.
• Contribute innovative ideas and collaborate with external partners for project success.

Key Education & Experience for the Senior Systems Engineering Specialist – Communication Systems: 

• Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Ph.D. degree in Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
• Proven experience in satellite system architecture and design.
• Strong experience in Payload technology, and Radio Frequency (RF) engineering.
• Strong knowledge of satellite communication protocols, orbital mechanics, and space systems. Ideally with experience in software-defined satellite communication payloads.
• Familiarity with regulatory bodies and space industry standards.
• Must be a US or Canadian Citizen.

The successful candidate must be able to work in Canada and obtain Reliability Clearance.

This opportunity offers a hybrid work model with 4 days in the office per week and occasional travel is anticipated.
 
If your skills and experience match this Senior Systems Engineering Specialist – Communication Systems opportunity, we encourage you to apply now!

Holt Executive is supporting a well-established and rapidly growing design and manufacturing business, seeking a Principal Mechanical Engineer to join its engineering team.

Specialising in advanced systems for the defence sector, the company delivers innovative, precision-engineered solutions to meet complex customer requirements.

This role offers the opportunity to lead a skilled engineering team and contribute to the design and delivery of cutting-edge technology.

Key Responsibilities for the Principal Mechanical Engineer: 

• Lead and manage a multi-disciplinary design team to deliver high-quality mechanical design solutions, ensuring projects are completed on time, within budget, and to specification.
• Drive innovative design of complex electro-mechanical systems, mechanisms, and structures using SolidWorks and supporting analysis tools.
• Perform detailed engineering analysis including stress, fatigue, vibration, and materials performance, using both conventional methods and simulation software.
• Produce and manage detailed engineering documentation, including 3D CAD models, manufacturing drawings, test plans, reports, and technical documentation to support product development and customer requirements.
• Integrate mechanical designs with electronic, control, and drive systems, collaborating closely with wider engineering teams.
• Lead design reviews, manage design releases to production, and support manufacturing, testing, and field engineering teams.
• Support project managers with resource planning, progress reporting, and technical problem-solving.
• Assist sales and bid teams with proposals, quotations, and technical input.
• Promote continuous improvement in product development processes, working cross-functionally with other engineering and production teams.

Skills & Experience for the Principal Mechanical Engineer: 

• Degree qualified in Mechanical Engineering.
• Proven experience leading the design of complex mechanical systems, preferably within defence or other high-reliability sectors (e.g., R&D, scientific equipment, bespoke machinery).
• Strong knowledge of material selection, machining, fabrication techniques, and surface treatment processes for use in harsh environments.
• Expertise in motion control, precision mechanisms, gear drives, bearings, and motor integration.
• Proficient in SolidWorks 3D CAD and engineering analysis.
• Experience managing small to medium-sized design teams, with a focus on mentoring, coaching, and talent development.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, capable of presenting complex technical arguments clearly.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively within multi-disciplinary teams and deliver results within fast-paced environments.
• Familiarity with producing technical documentation, safety reviews, risk assessments, and quality control processes.

Benefits & Work-Life Balance:

• 37.5-hour working week with early finish on Fridays
• Hybrid and flexible working arrangements
• 28 days annual leave + Christmas closure + holiday purchase scheme
• Matched pension contributions up to 5%
• Life assurance, income protection, and employee assistance programme
• Electric vehicle salary sacrifice scheme
• Wellbeing support, gym discounts, and reward platform with high street discounts
• Employee share scheme and referral bonus
• Continuous learning & development opportunities
• Free onsite parking

Security Clearance Requirement:

Due to the nature of this role, candidates must be eligible to obtain UK Security Clearance. Proof of identity, right to work, employment history, and residency in the UK for at least five years will be required.

If your qualifications and experience align with this Principal Mechanical Engineer opportunity, we encourage you to submit your CV to info@holtexecutive.com for consideration. 

Senior Systems Engineer – Defence & Technology

Location: West Sussex (Flexible / Hybrid Working Available)
Salary: £50,000-£60,000 (DOE) + Excellent Benefits
Clearance Required: Must be eligible for UK Security Clearance

Are you a systems thinker with a passion for innovation and leadership? We’re looking for a Senior Systems Engineer to join a cutting-edge engineering team working on complex, multidisciplinary products across the full lifecycle, from concept to delivery.

This is a great opportunity to play a pivotal role in shaping high-integrity solutions across electrical, electronic, hardware, and embedded software domains. You’ll be hands-on in project delivery and drive improvements in systems engineering practice, while mentoring and supporting the wider team.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Lead systems engineering activities across complex product development programmes.
• Drive process improvements, mentor colleagues, and enhance engineering best practices.
• Define and manage system-level requirements, from stakeholder input through to compliance.
• Design system architectures, perform trade-off analyses, and guide project decisions.
• Provide technical leadership throughout the design, integration, validation, and commissioning phases.
• Engage with project managers, supply chain, production, and customers to ensure success from concept to delivery.
• Support bid and proposal activities with technical expertise and creative solutions.

What We’re Looking For

• A degree in a relevant engineering discipline.
• A strong background in multidisciplinary systems engineering (min. 5 years).
• Experience across the full product development lifecycle.
• Practical understanding of electrical and electronic systems.
• Proven track record in leading technical teams and delivering successful outcomes.
• Strong communication, organisational, and mentoring skills.
• Passion for continuous improvement and innovation.

 
What’s In It for You

• 37.5-hour working week with early Friday finish
• Hybrid/flexible working arrangements
• 28 days holiday + Christmas closure + holiday purchase scheme
• Matched pension contributions up to 5%
• Income protection, life assurance & EAP (mental health, GP access, physiotherapy)
• Share schemes and electric vehicle salary sacrifice
• Wellbeing initiatives, sports/social activities, and discounts platform
• Rewarding referral scheme
• Excellent learning and development opportunities

Additional Information

You must be eligible for UK Security Clearance to apply. This includes proving your right to work and UK residency for the last five years.

Ready to lead, innovate, and make a real impact? Apply now and help shape something truly impactful.

Join a dynamic team at the forefront of aerospace innovation as an Embedded Software Engineer. You will develop real-time embedded software for spacecraft onboard systems, contributing to exciting space missions and shaping the future of space exploration.

This role offers the chance to work on advanced flight software, collaborating with cross-functional teams to design, validate, and integrate critical systems. You’ll be responsible for defining software requirements, testing in both simulation and real-world environments, and ensuring high-performance software solutions.
 
Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and test flight software for spacecraft.
• Work with multiple teams to identify software needs and solutions.
• Participate in mission system testing and simulation.
• Contribute to the overall success of space missions through software design and integration.

 
What We’re Looking For:

• Strong experience in C/C++ for real-time embedded systems.
• Familiarity with real-time operating systems (VxWorks, RTEMS).
• Proven ability to work with version control systems like Git.
• Experience with developing equipment drivers and interface documentation.
• Ability to independently test and debug software in both simulated and live environments.
• Strong problem-solving skills, and proactive, self-driven work ethic.

 
Desirable Experience:

• Experience with space-related software development.
• Knowledge of industry standards like MISRA, CCSDS, or ECSS.
• Familiarity with Linux systems and Python.

 
What You’ll Get:

• Competitive salary and benefits.
• Flexible and hybrid working options and a supportive environment.
• 9/75 work pattern (optional).
• 25 days holiday (increasing with service), life insurance, and private healthcare.
• Relocation support if required.
• Work with a talented, international team in state-of-the-art facilities.

 
Ready to take your career to new heights? Apply now and be part of groundbreaking space technology!

We are excited to offer an opportunity for a Document Control Assistant to join a growing team. If you’re a detail-oriented professional with a passion for organization and process optimization, this role could be the perfect fit for you.

In this critical position, you’ll play an essential role in managing configuration documents, processes, and data systems, contributing directly to the success of projects across multiple departments. There is significant potential to shape and support the delivery of new business processes and systems as the company continues to grow.

Key Responsibilities:

Configuration Control & Documentation:

• Ensure that engineering documents, design updates, and system configurations are tracked, recorded, and maintained according to industry standards and project specifications.
• Provide support in coordinating and processing change requests and the associated change management activities.
• Collaborate with project teams to generate internal configuration status reports for as-built production systems.
• Assist with entering and managing data within the engineering parts database.
• Work alongside the engineering team to help develop and improve efficient configuration management procedures.
• Proofread and verify the accuracy of data, descriptions, and technical documents in terms of language and content.
• Present data summaries at review meetings and assist in discussing configuration status.
• Support general technical data processing and overall data management activities.

Skills & Experience:
Essential:

• GCSE Grade 6 or above in Maths and English.
• At least 3 A-levels at grade C or above (or an HNC/HND) in a relevant subject area.
• Proven experience in working with data/documentation and a keen eye for identifying errors.
• A strong interest in technology, engineering design, and development.
• Experience working with spreadsheets and confidently manipulating data.
• Familiarity with data entry and management.
• Passion for improving and streamlining procedures for greater efficiency.
• Strong ability to analyze, summarize, and report on data.

Desirable:

• Previous experience working in configuration control.
• Familiarity with configuration control tools, ERP, and PDM systems, particularly Epicor or SolidWorks PDM.
• Experience developing and refining practical working procedures.
• Experience using task management systems like Jira or similar.

Personal Attributes:

• Strong presentation, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Demonstrates core company values: Teamwork, Integrity, Excellence, and Courage.
• Highly organized with a methodical approach and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently when necessary, while also collaborating effectively with others.
• Flexible, conscientious, and diligent attitude.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Resilient and adaptable in response to changing priorities.

Work Life Balance:

• 37.5-hour working week.
• Lunchtime finishes on Fridays.
• Hybrid/flexible working arrangements.
• 28 days annual leave, plus Christmas closure.
• Holiday purchasing scheme.

We are thrilled to partner with a leading Defence company to offer an exciting opportunity for a Senior Buyer to join their Purchasing team on a 6 Month FTC. In this role, you will be key to executing the supply chain strategy and cultivating strong, risk-mitigated supply partnerships to ensure the effective delivery of high-quality products and services, while minimizing ownership costs.

Key Responsibilities:

Procurement & Supply Chain Management:

• Oversee procurement operations for an engineering-focused supplier portfolio, ensuring alignment with strategic goals.
• Cultivate and strengthen supplier relationships, exploring opportunities to add greater value and enhance the performance of a dynamic, agile supply chain.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement in all procurement processes and supplier interactions.
• Lead business reviews, assessing supplier performance and setting objectives for improvement to meet business goals.
• Regularly assess risks and conduct supplier audits, ensuring ongoing alignment of supplier investments with company strategies.
• Apply problem-solving techniques to drive meaningful improvements in supplier performance, addressing issues at their core.
• Identify and source new suppliers capable of meeting complex specifications and commercial expectations.
• Support the introduction of new parts and adapt the supply chain to accommodate evolving needs and requirements.
• Prepare and issue RFIs and RFQs, providing comprehensive cost-benefit analysis and ROI recommendations.
• Manage changes in supplier relationships, including onboarding, disengagement, and change management throughout the contract duration.

Skills & Experience:

Essential:

• Strong analytical abilities, with proficiency in MRP/ERP systems and advanced IT skills.
• Experience in technical procurement, including engineering and machined parts, with the ability to read and interpret technical drawings.

Desirable:

• Experience working within integrated project management teams.
• Experience in forming and structuring contracts.
• CIPS Level 4 or above qualification.

Personal Attributes:

• Demonstrates the company values of Teamwork, Integrity, Excellence, and Courage.
• A collaborative team player with strong communication skills, able to engage with cross-functional teams.
• Highly organized with exceptional attention to detail.
• Proactive and results-driven, capable of planning, executing, and monitoring procurement activities to achieve supply chain goals.
• Resilient and adaptable, with the ability to thrive under pressure, multitask, and meet demanding deadlines.

Work Life Balance:

• 37.5-hour working week.
• Lunchtime finishes on Fridays.
• Hybrid/flexible working arrangements.
• 28 days annual leave, with Christmas closure.
• Holiday purchasing scheme.

Holt Executive are proud to be partnered with a class leading Defence company who have an exciting opportunity for a Commodity Specialist. The Commodity Specialist will be responsible for executing the supply chain strategy and driving strong, risk-mitigated supply partnerships. This role ensures the delivery of quality products and services on plan and at the lowest cost of ownership, while adapting the supply chain to meet emerging needs.

Key Responsibilities:

Commodity Responsibility:

• Facilitate the introduction of new parts and adapt the supply chain to support emerging needs. Manage end-to-end procurement activities for an engineering-based portfolio.
• Formulate and negotiate contracts within company terms and framework agreements to support both contracting and aftermarket requirements.
• Develop strong supply partnerships, identifying opportunities to climb the value chain and maximize value for a high-performing, agile supply chain network.
• Identify and develop new supply sources that meet commercial, compliance, sustainability, and technical requirements.
• Prepare and publish RFIs and RFQs, providing detailed cost-benefit analysis and ROI proposals.
• Manage the process of engagement, disengagement, and change management throughout the contract lifecycle.
• Conduct regular site visits and business reviews, examining performance and setting improvement goals.
• Perform risk assessments and supplier audits, ensuring alignment of business objectives and strategies.
• Lead and execute continuous improvement initiatives with internal and external partners.
• Use problem-solving techniques to enhance supplier performance and resolve issues at the root cause level.

Skills & Experience Essential:

• Strong analytical skills with good IT knowledge and experience using MRP/ERP systems.
• Experience in technical, engineering, and machined part procurement with the ability to read and interpret technical drawings.
• Experience in forming and constructing contracts.

Desirable:

• Experience working within integrated project management teams.
• CIPS Level 4 or above qualification.

Personal Attributes:

• Demonstrates core values of Teamwork, Integrity, Excellence, and Courage.
• Collaborative team player with strong cross-functional communication skills.
• Excellent organizational skills with a keen eye for detail.
• Proactive, results-driven, able to plan, organize, and execute across the supply chain.
• Resilient, adaptable, and capable of working under pressure with tight deadlines.

Work Life Balance:

• 37.5-hour working week.
• Lunchtime finishes on Fridays.
• Hybrid/flexible working arrangements.
• 28 days annual leave, with Christmas closure.
• Holiday purchasing scheme.

  Security Clearance Requirements: Due to the nature of the business, staff must be able to obtain UK Security Clearance. Therefore, successful candidates will need to provide proof of identity, employment history, and right to work in the UK, along with proof of UK residency for at least five years.

Join a dynamic team at the forefront of aerospace innovation as an Embedded Software Engineer. You will develop real-time embedded software for spacecraft onboard systems, contributing to exciting space missions and shaping the future of space exploration.

This role offers the chance to work on advanced flight software, collaborating with cross-functional teams to design, validate, and integrate critical systems. You’ll be responsible for defining software requirements, testing in both simulation and real-world environments, and ensuring high-performance software solutions.
 
Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and test flight software for spacecraft.
• Work with multiple teams to identify software needs and solutions.
• Participate in mission system testing and simulation.
• Contribute to the overall success of space missions through software design and integration.

 
What We’re Looking For:

• Strong experience in C/C++ for real-time embedded systems.
• Familiarity with real-time operating systems (VxWorks, RTEMS).
• Proven ability to work with version control systems like Git.
• Experience with developing equipment drivers and interface documentation.
• Ability to independently test and debug software in both simulated and live environments.
• Strong problem-solving skills, and proactive, self-driven work ethic.

 
Desirable Experience:

• Experience with space-related software development.
• Knowledge of industry standards like MISRA, CCSDS, or ECSS.
• Familiarity with Linux systems and Python.

 
What You’ll Get:

• Competitive salary and benefits.
• Flexible and hybrid working options and a supportive environment.
• 9/75 work pattern (optional).
• 25 days holiday (increasing with service), life insurance, and private healthcare.
• Relocation support and visa sponsorship.
• Work with a talented, international team in state-of-the-art facilities.

 
Ready to take your career to new heights? Apply now and be part of groundbreaking space technology!