A Contract position Outside IR35 Hybrid working Essential: Proven Lead Systems Engineering experience on Defence Vehicle Platforms Our client, a leading player in the automotive sector, is currently seeking a Systems Engineering Lead on a contract basis, to join their team. This role focuses on vehicle-level design and integration of defence platforms, emphasising chassis, steering, suspension, and overall mobility performance. Key Responsibilities Lead the system-level architecture and integration Define and integrate key vehicle subsystems, ensuring effective integration of the powertrain into the vehicle platform Drive requirements capture, decomposition, and traceability, ensuring alignment with vehicle-level performance and mission needs Deliver against critical performance measures such as mobility, ride dynamics, stability, durability, and reliability Balance system trade-offs, optimising mobility, protection, payload, and power Coordinate cross-functional teams to ensure coherent platform integration Oversee vehicle-level verification and validation, including rig, subsystem testing, and full vehicle trials Support safety case development and hazard analysis in line with defence standards Manage system interfaces, configuration control, and vehicle-level BOM structures Engage with suppliers for critical subsystems and mentor systems engineers within the team Job Requirements Significant experience in systems engineering, particularly within defence or heavy vehicle platforms Proven knowledge of vehicle chassis, suspension, steering, and overall vehicle dynamics Understanding of delivering reliable vehicles in extreme environments Effective in system-level integration, ensuring cohesive vehicle performance Relevant degree in Systems, Mechanical, Automotive, or Mechatronics Engineering Proficiency in vehicle system architecture and platform integration Experience with vehicle communication networks (CAN, J1939, MIL-STD) Familiarity with FMEA, DFMEA, and system-level hazard analysis Experience with DOORS NG, Polarion, or similar requirements tools Desirable Experience with defence applications Knowledge of DEF STAN / MIL-STD requirements Advanced suspension and steering technologies Previous security clearance (BPSS, SC or higher) If you are a Systems Engineering professional with robust experience in automotive defence platforms and seek a new challenge, we would love to hear from you. Apply now to become an integral part of our client's dynamic team