We’re seeking practicing and experienced Systems Engineers 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 facility that will underpin our Critical National Infrastructure. You will be joining the department at an exciting time as we look to grow our Systems Engineering team and you will contribute to mature the NPL Systems Engineering processes within the Time & Frequency department.

As a 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 in setting the new standards for frequency measurements by designing, developing and implementing the systems required to launch our measurement facilities at the new AQML laboratory in Teddington, London.

This role offers exciting opportunities to collaborate with subject-matter experts across the business.

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.

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:

• Degree in Engineering (Systems, Optical, Mechanical, Electronics or Software Engineering) or a 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;
• Aware of different development methodologies e.g. agile, iterative;
• Exceptional written and oral communication skills with the ability to explain complex technical concepts;
• Collaborative and proactive team player with a determined attitude when face with ambiguity.

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.