Effects Optimisation System Architect

Company: MBDA
Apply for the Effects Optimisation System Architect
Location: Bristol
Job Description:

Overview

In this System Architect role, you’ll shape the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) and Future Combat Air System (FCAS) by defining concepts and architectures for complex, early-stage technologies. You will work within a cross-functional team to translate ideas into viable system architectures, guided by MBSE practices and strong governance. You’ll lead and influence technical direction across a small team, ensuring clear communication to stakeholders and customers. This high-profile position offers the chance to impact defence systems at scale and collaborate with international partners. You’ll contribute to a growing, mission-driven team that values collaboration, experimentation, and clear

Pay / Benefits

  • Bonus up to 21% of base salary
  • Pension up to 14% total contributions
  • Flexible working arrangements
  • Enhanced parental leave
  • Healthcare Cash Plan
  • subsidised meals and car parking

Responsibilities

  • Lead and manage a small team to drive system architecture for advanced defence systems
  • Specify concepts and algorithms and organise them within a system architecture
  • Apply model-based systems engineering (MBSE) tools and approaches
  • Provide technical governance across lifecycle activities and customer demonstrations
  • Communicate new concepts and architectures clearly to internal and external stakeholders
  • Support multi-disciplinary teams across technology, concepting and delivery
  • Engage in early concept development and progress towards defined solutions
  • Facilitate experiments with the customer community to test ideas

Key requirements

  • Strong experience in system architecting for complex systems
  • Experience with MBSE tools and approaches
  • Proven ability to lead and manage a team and influence technical direction
  • Excellent communication skills across diverse stakeholders
  • Ability to work with multi-disciplinary teams in concepting and technology development
  • Understanding of weapon systems, platforms, mission system software, and battlespace architectures (beneficial)
  • British Citizen with ability to obtain SC clearance
  • communication
  • leadership
  • stakeholder engagement
  • system architecting
  • MBSE
  • governance of small teams

…

Posted: October 23rd, 2026