Copello Global
Principal Engineer-Low Observables

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Principal Engineer - Low Observables SME
Location: Barrow-In Furness
Employment Type: Permanent
Salary: £60,000 pa plus excellent benefits and relocation assistance available.
We are partnering with a leading defence organisation to find their next important hire in their Stealth engineering team. This is an exciting opportunity to join an area of huge potential with exposure to the newest exciting developments in Stealth engineering.
The Role
As a Principal Engineer in Low Observables, you will lead the design, development, and validation of signature reduction techniques for our submarine platforms. Your expertise will help define, model, and verify stealth features related to radar, infrared, visual, and RF signatures, directly contributing to the UK’s strategic maritime defence capabilities. This role offers a unique chance to spearhead innovative projects from concept through to in-service support, ensuring our submarines remain highly covert in complex maritime environments.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the development and enhancement of the Stealth Engineering Department’s Above Water Signatures capability.
- Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to design and qualify stealthy equipment and integrated systems.
- Define technical requirements, develop test methodologies, and establish approval criteria for signature reductions.
- Provide expert guidance on above water signature considerations at key design review stages.
- Review design documentation to ensure compliance with signature requirements.
- Lead modelling and simulation efforts for radar, infrared, visual, and RF signatures using both custom and commercial tools.
- Develop and implement testing protocols for signature performance verification.
- Support full-scale trial activities during submarine commissioning to validate stealth capabilities.
- Manage research projects in partnership with internal teams and academic institutions to innovate signature reduction techniques.
- Continuously improve stealth features on in-service submarines through detailed analysis and upgrades.
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I’m in my final year doing Economics and I don’t know whether to apply for grad schemes now or do a masters first. What do you think?
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Also worth knowing: most autumn 2026 applications are open now. Timing matters more than you think.
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Why you're a good match
StrongYour economics background and your summer at a regional bank line up with what PwC looks for on the consulting scheme. Applications close in four weeks.
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Why you're a good match
You’ve got the grades and the economics background, and your bank internship is exactly the experience this scheme looks for. Apply soon — deadlines close within the month.
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Qualifications & Skills


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- Degree (or equivalent experience) in Mathematics, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related STEM discipline.
- Proven experience with modelling software, simulation tools, or programming relevant to stealth and signature analysis.
- Strong understanding of electromagnetism, radar, infrared, and visual detection technologies.
- Demonstrated leadership in technical project management and cross-team collaboration.
- Excellent problem-solving skills with an innovative mindset.
Why this role?
- Lead pioneering work in stealth technology that influences national security.
- Work within a world-class team shaping the future of maritime stealth systems.
- Be part of a company committed to professional development, collaboration, and innovation.
If you’re a passionate engineer ready to push the boundaries of stealth technology and make a tangible impact, we want to hear from you. Please call Victoria on 07341347640 and email a copy of your CV to victoria@copello.co.uk.
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