Principal System Design Engineer
Added 29 Sept · still live
Pro only
Salary
Pro sees the advertised pay
£54,900
Going rate
Skilled Worker going rate
This role may qualify for a Skilled Worker visa
SOC 2133 is an eligible occupation, but we are only 55% sure that is the right code. General Dynamics UK Limited is a licensed sponsor, so if the code fits, the role should qualify. Check the occupation eligibility rules against what the job actually involves.
This could also be SOC 2129 (Engineering professionals not elsewhere classified) or SOC 2126 (Aerospace engineers). We read the code off the advert, so it is our best guess, not the employer's.
Your salary route
New graduate or PhD holder? Pick one of the lower rates.
What each route needs for this job
| Occupation code | New entrant 70% of going rate | STEM PhD 80% of going rate | Relevant PhD 90% of going rate | Standard rate 100% of going rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
2133 IT business analysts, architects and systems designers Most likely code | £38,400 Clears | £43,900 Clears | £49,400 Clears | £54,900 Clears |
2129 Engineering professionals not elsewhere classified Also possible | £33,400 Clears | £36,900 Clears | £41,500 Clears | £46,100 Clears |
2126 Aerospace engineers Also possible | £36,700 Clears | £41,900 Clears | £47,200 Clears | £52,400 Clears |
We use the lowest threshold across the plausible codes. Likelihood is Possible at most when the pay clears only a lower rate, or only under a less likely code. A mark is for the top of the advertised pay. How the Home Office picks the code
About the role
Company Description
General Dynamics Mission Systems engineers a diverse portfolio of high technology solutions, products and services that enable customers to successfully execute missions across all domains of operation. With a global team of more than 13,000 top professionals, we partner with the best in industry to expand the bounds of innovation in the defence and scientific arenas. In the UK, we are leading the way in avionics and communication systems. Given the nature of our work and who we are, we value trust, honesty, alignment and transparency.
Job Description
As a Principal Systems Design Engineer, you will be a key engineering lead shaping the architecture and design of advanced C4I systems for critical defence programmes. This role seeks leadership elements for an experienced systems engineer who thrives on solving complex challenges, influencing strategy, and mentoring others. You will drive innovation, ensure technical excellence, and deliver integrated solutions that meet demanding operational requirements.
Click here for the full job description
Essential:
General Dynamics Mission Systems engineers a diverse portfolio of high technology solutions, products and services that enable customers to successfully execute missions across all domains of operation. With a global team of more than 13,000 top professionals, we partner with the best in industry to expand the bounds of innovation in the defence and scientific arenas. In the UK, we are leading the way in avionics and communication systems. Given the nature of our work and who we are, we value trust, honesty, alignment and transparency.
Job Description
As a Principal Systems Design Engineer, you will be a key engineering lead shaping the architecture and design of advanced C4I systems for critical defence programmes. This role seeks leadership elements for an experienced systems engineer who thrives on solving complex challenges, influencing strategy, and mentoring others. You will drive innovation, ensure technical excellence, and deliver integrated solutions that meet demanding operational requirements.
- Lead system architecture and design for complex, mission-critical defence systems, translating operational concepts into robust solutions.
- Define and implement technical strategy, ensuring alignment with programme objectives and future capability needs.
- Guide design reviews and ensure technical integrity throughout the lifecycle, including integration of specialty disciplines (Safety, Security, Human Factors, ILS, Training).
- Conduct trade studies, performance modelling, and evaluate emerging technologies to inform strategic decisions.
- Mentor junior engineers and engage with senior stakeholders, including MoD representatives, to influence programme-level decisions.
Click here for the full job description
Essential:
- Extensive experience in systems engineering and system design leadership.
Advertisement
- Deep understanding of network architectures, OSI model, and open standards.
- Familiarity with Open and Military Standards and compliance frameworks.
- Experience with Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE), SysML and structured design methodologies.
- Knowledge of TOGAF or NATO Architecture Framework.
- Awareness of Safety, Security, and ILS processes within defence programmes.
- Experience working with or familiarity with AI/ML models is preferred.
Salary for this position is £59,200 to £80,000, depending on experience plus our excellent flexible benefits package.
We offer hybrid working - for this role ideally we are looking for an average of 2 days per week per month on site.
We pride ourselves in being a great place to work with a shared sense of purpose, offering impressive benefits:
- A compressed nine-day fortnight and compressed hours - which means every other Friday off.
- A personalized career development plan, alongside regular progress reviews - supporting and valuing your progression within the Company.
- A flexible working environment where your contributions are recognized and rewarded with flexible benefits
We believe in maintaining a diverse workplace - inclusive of beliefs, cultural background, job experiences, thoughts and ideas. If who we are and what we do resonates with you, we welcome you to join our inclusive team!
Our success is fuelled by our colleagues and the wide variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills they bring to the Company.
We are a Disability Confident Employer, as such we offer an interview to disabled people who meet the minimum criteria for the job.
Please email [email protected] if you would like your application to be considered under the DC Scheme.
All successful/appointed applicants must be able to obtain a level of UK Security clearance that is appropriate for the role and undertake suitable Right to work checks
Every application matters to us. We want you to know that each application we receive is reviewed by a real person—not just an algorithm. Our screening questions are also carefully considered to help us understand your experience and fit for the role.
We appreciate the time you take to apply.
Our success is fuelled by our colleagues and the wide variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills they bring to the Company.
We are a Disability Confident Employer, as such we offer an interview to disabled people who meet the minimum criteria for the job.
Please email [email protected] if you would like your application to be considered under the DC Scheme.
All successful/appointed applicants must be able to obtain a level of UK Security clearance that is appropriate for the role and undertake suitable Right to work checks
Every application matters to us. We want you to know that each application we receive is reviewed by a real person—not just an algorithm. Our screening questions are also carefully considered to help us understand your experience and fit for the role.
We appreciate the time you take to apply.
This description is the source posting as it read when we added it. We are not affiliated with General Dynamics UK Limited, so check their own site for the current details.
Where this offer sits in the market
IT business analysts, architects and systems designers (SOC 2133) · UK · ONS ASHE 2025 · basic pay · ~187k in sampleSOC 2133
- Middle half £45,136–79,976
- Median £60,216
- Going rate £54,900
- Threshold £41,700
- New entrant £38,400–49,400
Similar sponsored roles
See all UK visa jobsNo close matches live right now.
Browse more sponsored jobs at General Dynamics UK LimitedAbout sponsorship for this role
Does this job guarantee visa sponsorship?
Not necessarily. General Dynamics UK Limited holds a sponsor licence, but sponsorship for a specific hire is always the employer's decision. Be upfront in your application that you'll require it.
What salary is needed for this role to be eligible?
The offer must clear both the general threshold and the SOC 2133 going rate of £54,900. New-entrant and shortage discounts can lower it.