Systems Engineer

Location: Crawley, United Kingdom

Thales people architect solutions that enable two-thirds of planes to take off and land safely. We create in-flight entertainment systems that engross 50 million fliers every year and we develop the avionics that control the world’s largest commercial aircrafts. Our simulators train the next generation of pilots for fighter jets, transporters and search and rescue helicopters. And, together, each and every member of our aerospace team makes a difference.

Together we offer fantastic opportunities for committed employees to learn and develop their career with us. At Thales UK, we research, develop, and supply technology and services that impact the lives of millions of people each day to make life better, and keep us safer. We innovate across the major industries of Aerospace, Defence, Security and Space. Your health and well-being matters to us and that’s why we offer you the flexibility to do what’s important to you; whether that’s part time hours, job sharing, home working, or the ability to flex your start and finish times. Where possible, we support a working pattern that suits your lifestyle and helps you reach your ambitions.

Location: Crawley with some travel to Templecombe

Are you ready to take your engineering career to new heights? Join our established Systems Engineering organisation and play a leading role in shaping the future of military aerospace technology.

As a Senior Systems Engineer in Flight Avionics, you’ll be at the forefront of developing and delivering cutting-edge products and programmes to a diverse range of customers. From next-generation Tactical Mission Management Systems to advanced cockpit display and navigation solutions for military helicopter platforms, your work will directly impact mission success.

Key responsibilities:

• Capture and manage system requirements.

• Create solution, functional, and physical architectures including modelling and prototyping.

• Collaborate with customers and prepare technical documentation.

• Manage suppliers through technical statements of work.

• Develop and execute integration and test specifications on target platforms.

• Contribute to safety and airworthiness certification.

• Lead technical direction for assigned projects.

• Coordinate with engineering functions and support delivery of projects.

• Advise on architectural system developments.

What we’re looking for:

• Team player who thrives in multi-disciplinary environments and champions inclusiveness.

• Problem solver who asks the right questions, brings fresh ideas, and adds real value.

• Self-starter who manages their workload effectively while contributing to wider organisational goals.

• Passionate learner eager to embrace new skills, technologies, and self-development.

• Technical leader capable of guiding project direction and supporting colleagues in their growth.

Desired skills & experience:

• Degree in Engineering, Science, or related field (or equivalent training/experience).

• Strong communication skills with the ability to explain complex technical problems clearly.

• Knowledge of Systems Engineering processes and lifecycles.

• Experience in requirements capture/management (e.g. DOORS) or system architectural modelling.

• Military aerospace knowledge is a plus, but not essential.

• Quick learner who can grasp system scope and component interactions rapidly.

Why join us? This role offers exciting opportunities for growth, learning, and progression within a dynamic organisation. You’ll be part of a team that values innovation, collaboration, and diversity—while working on projects that truly make a difference.

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In line with Thales' Baseline Security requirements, candidates will be asked to provide evidence of identity, eligibility to work in the UK and employment and/or education history for up to three years. Some vacancies may require full Security Clearance which can require further evidence to be provided. For further details of the evidence required to apply for Baseline and Security Clearance please refer to the Defence Business Services National Security Vetting (DBS NSV) Agency.

At Thales we provide CAREERS and not only jobs. With Thales employing 80,000 employees in 68 countries our mobility policy enables thousands of employees each year to develop their careers at home and abroad, in their existing areas of expertise or by branching out into new fields. Together we believe that embracing flexibility is a smarter way of working.

Thales UK is committed to providing an inclusive and barrier-free recruitment process. We will provide reasonable adjustments and support to ensure neuro-diverse applicants or those with a disability or long-term condition can be their best during the recruitment process. To request an adjustment, if you need this job advert in an alternative format or if you have any questions about the recruitment process, please contact Resourcing Ops for mid to senior roles, or the Early Careers Team for graduate and apprentice roles.

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