Systems Engineer

• About the Role
• We’re seeking a practicing and experienced Systems Engineer to join our world-leading Time and Frequency Department.
  
  

We maintain and develop the UK’s National Time Scale, UTC (NPL), and are currently developing a new resilient Time Scale that will underpin Digital Infrastructure.

You will be joining at an exciting time, as we drive the maturation of our systems and network engineering capabilities, and lead the architecture and deployment of NPL’s time scale. This is a pivotal role in shaping technical strategy, advancing world-class engineering practices, and delivering solutions that underpin the UK’s time and frequency infrastructure.

As Systems Engineer, you’ll enjoy working alongside prominent Scientists and Engineers to bring a systems approach to a range of research projects. You will have a pivotal role in setting the new standards for frequency measurements by designing, developing and implementing the systems required to launch timing services from our site in Teddington, London.

Key responsibilities:

• Work with scientists and software developers to develop verification and validation plans and test cases, carry out tests and provide reports;

Work at various stages of the product lifecycle, with the ability to assess and effectively communicate risks;

Documentation of system’s analysis, synthesis, and test results, according to NPL’s internal Engineering process, and on time & budget;

Explaining complex technical concepts and tech advisory to internal and external stakeholders from technical and non-technical backgrounds;

Contributing to mature the NPL Systems Engineering processes within the Time & Frequency department.

• About You
• Reporting to a Group Leader, you’ll enjoy responsibility for the development of systems plans to time, quality and cost. You’ll utilise analytical and technical skills to contribute to the design, implementation, and monitoring of systems to push the boundaries of measurement accuracy and stability.
  
  

To be successful in this role, you will have the following skills, experience, and qualifications:

Essential:

• A relevant degree (or equivalent experience) in Engineering (such as Systems, Optical, Mechanical, Electronics or Software Engineering), or closely-related subject area (e.g. Physics)
• Proven industry systems engineering experience with the design of complex systems

Experience in developing and building instrumentation systems

Advantageous:

• Aware of different development methodologies (such as agile, or iterative)
  
  

It is desirable if you have interest in Physics, measurements, and communications, for example:

• Time and frequency measurement and time scales
• Real-time monitoring and control of electronic hardware
• Satellite communication, optical fibre and GNSS-based systems
  
  

We actively recruit citizens of all backgrounds, but the nature of our work in specific departments means that nationality, residency and security requirements can be more tightly defined than others. You will be asked about this throughout the recruitment process. To work at NPL, you will need to obtain BPSS security clearance.

However, to work in this role in the Time & Frequency department, you will need to have an SC clearance with no restrictions, or you must have the ability to obtain an SC clearance.

Please note: Applications will be reviewed, and interviews conducted throughout the duration of this advert therefore we may at any time bring the closing date forward. We encourage all interested applicants to apply as soon as practical.

About Us

The National Physical Laboratory (NPL) is a world-leading centre of excellence that provides cutting-edge measurement science, engineering and technology to underpin prosperity and quality of life in the UK. Find out more about what it is like working here - The measure of us - Overview

NPL and DSIT have strong commitments to diversity and equality of opportunity, and welcome applications from candidates irrespective of their background, gender, race, sexual orientation, religion, or age, providing they meet the required criteria. Applications from women, disabled and black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates in particular are encouraged. All disabled candidates (as defined by the Equality Act 2010) who satisfy the minimum criteria for the role will be guaranteed an interview under the Disability Confident Scheme.

At NPL, we believe our success is a result of the diversity and talent of our people. We strive to nurture and respect individuals to ensure everyone feels valued by treating everyone on the basis of their own individual merits and abilities regardless of their own or perceived identity, as part of our commitment to diversity & inclusion, we ensure we’re creating an environment where all our colleagues feel supported and welcome. More about this on our Diversity & Inclusion page.

We are committed to the health and well-being of our employees. Flexible working and social activities are embedded in our culture to create a positive work-l

ife balance, along with a broad range of rewards, benefits and recognition. Our values are at the heart of what we do, and they shape the way we interact, develop our people and celebrate success. To ensure everyone has an equal chance, we’re always willing to make reasonable adjustments to the recruitment process. If you would like to discuss, please contact us.

[Internally, this role will be known as "Senior Engineer"]