Systems Engineer - Military Satellite Communications

Location: Portsmouth, UK

Security Clearance: SC Clearance Required (British Eyes Only)

Travel: Ad hoc UK travel

A rare opportunity has emerged for a talented Systems Engineer to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Military Satellite Communications (Milsatcom). The successful candidate will join a high-performing team of Lead Systems Engineers and Architects, contributing to advanced defence programmes that span space, control, and ground segments.

This role focuses on defining system architecture for upcoming UK MOD tender opportunities-including the Skynet Enduring Capability-as well as other strategic Milsatcom initiatives. With a legacy of delivering secure satellite communications from Skynet 4 through Skynet 5 and now Skynet 6A, this team is pushing the boundaries of inter-satellite links, navigation, and resilient space-based networks.

Key Responsibilities

Capture and define system requirements from stakeholder needs through to subsystem level
Maintain ownership of traceability and verification processes
Support Verification, Validation & Test (VV&T) activities
Define ground system architecture and conduct trade-off analyses
Collaborate with engineering leads and partners in integrated working groups
Contribute to technical proposals and solution reviews
Provide technical support to bidding teams
Offer systems engineering and project management input for planning, scheduling, and cost control
Communicate progress and resolve issues with stakeholders

Ideal Candidate Profile

Degree (or equivalent) in Electronic Engineering, Computer Science, Telecommunications, or related discipline
Experience designing and deploying end-to-end digital telecom systems (Milsatcom experience desirable)
Familiarity with Waterfall and Agile development methodologies
Must understand and have working experience with Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE); Enterprise Architecture preferred
Good working knowledge of Milsatcom infrastructure and architecture, enabling a strong 'big picture' perspective
Proficiency in MBSE tools such as Enterprise Architect (EA)
Strong customer and partner engagement skills
Working knowledge of satellite platforms, payloads, control systems, and network operations
Excellent presentation and technical writing abilitiesTransferable Backgrounds

Candidates from telecommunications and related industries are strongly encouraged to apply. Experience in complex systems integration, digital networks, or defence-grade infrastructure is highly transferable.

Interview Process

Stage 1: Virtual interview with Mike Green and a Technical Expert
Stage 2 (if required): Face-to-face interview

This vacancy is being advertised by Belcan