BAE Systems
Principal Engineer – Prototype Lead (System Integration, Verification and Validation)

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Job Title: Principal Engineer – Prototype Lead (System Integration, Verification and Validation)
Location: Barrow-in-Furness, full time onsite
We offer a range of hybrid and flexible working arrangements - please speak to your recruiter about the options for this particular role
Salary: Circa £55,000
Who we are:
Join BAE Systems and you’ll be part of something bigger. As a valued member of our global colleague network, you’ll bring your unique skills and perspectives to help pioneer progress and protect what matters most. You’ll be trusted to play your part in delivering the advanced, technology-led defence, aerospace and security solutions of tomorrow, shaping a safer future, for all of us.
From the depths of the ocean, to the far reaches of space, there’s no limit to where a career at BAE Systems could take you.
Job Description:
You'll establish the SSNA programme requirements for the Prototyping PCS IV&V capability, by collaborating with relevant stakeholders and implementing any learning from experience found from other submarine programmes, to establish a programme enabling PCS Prototyping infrastructure for SSN AUKUS.
You'll oversee the procurement, development and integration of Plant models, integrated hosted functionality models and System Prototypes (from the Platform Complex System domain).
Core duties:
- Lead Platform Complex Systems IV&V Prototype Project establishing the IV&V requirements and with internal and external stakeholders
- Lead the identification of capability, toolsets and method required to deliver Prototyping for Platform Complex Systems
- Lead in the management and procurement of individual IV&V toolsets and Rig capabilities for Model in the Loop and Hardware in the loop to assist in the establish of programme infrastructure
- Establish how IV&V is to be conducted on Prototypes and how evidence is to be produced
- Carry out Prototype Make/Buy decisions for Prototypes and Plant models
- Manage the Development and integration of Plant Models
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Essential Skills:
- You hold a BEng (Hons) / MEng or equivalent experience in an engineering discipline or in systems Engineering
- Knowledge and expertise in Functional Modelling toolsets that can contribute to a Prototyping environment e.g. MATLAB Simulink
- Knowledge and expertise in Systems Engineering IV&V process and practices in the defence, maritime or closely linked industry and the correct recognition of the context of their work within the overall business
- You demonstrate understanding of the full engineering lifecycle, from requirements development and verification through to integration and validation
- Experience in setting up common infrastructure for large projects
The SSNA - Platform Complex Systems Team (PCS IV&V):
The PCS IV&V team is a growing, high-impact engineering function delivering IV&V and system integration across the SSNA Platform Complex Systems programme. Working across disciplines, the team drives collaboration, resolves intricate tasks and shapes new capabilities—offering excellent development, cross-programme exposure and considerable support toward chartership.
We offer relocation support packages across all Submarines roles, subject to meeting eligibility criteria.
Why BAE Systems?
Here you’ll build a career with purpose and limitless possibilities. With lifelong learning and meaningful work, this is a place where you can grow your career with confidence and be empowered to be your best. You’ll be recognised for your contribution and enjoy rewards tailored to what’s most important to you and your family, support for your financial and personal wellbeing, as well as a balanced lifestyle. In an environment embracing sustainable ways of working and with a strong sense of shared purpose, our supportive culture is a place you can feel you belong and proud of the difference you make.


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A place where everyone can thrive:
We’re committed to building an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and supported. We know that a diversity of backgrounds, perspectives and experiences strengthens our teams and is vital to the work we do.
Please be aware that many roles at BAE Systems are subject to both security and export control restrictions. These restrictions mean that factors such as your nationality, any nationalities you may have previously held, and your place of birth can restrict the roles you are eligible to perform within the organisation. All applicants must as a minimum achieve Baseline Personnel Security Standard. Many roles also require higher levels of National Security Vetting where applicants must typically have 5 to 10 years of continuous residency in the UK depending on the vetting level required for the role, to allow for meaningful security vetting checks.
Closing Date: 1st October 2026
We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible.
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