Hybrid Senior / Principal Sonar Architect at Expleo

Overview

We are seeking a Senior & Principal Sonar Architects with extensive years of experience to join our team. The ideal candidates will have a strong background in the defence industry and expertise in systems engineering, verification, project management, and documentation. We are looking for Engineers who promote a mindset of attention to detail, communication, and teamwork within the team. Candidates with a good understanding of all aspects of Systems Engineering relating to lifecycle processes and methodologies should apply.

Responsibilities

• As a Sonar Architect within the Customers’ Underwater Systems Division, you will provide high-level technical leadership for sonar system design and integration on Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) programmes. You will develop and own system architectures, ensuring performance, integration, and compliance with customer requirements. This role involves working closely with systems engineers, hardware/software teams, and programme leadership to translate operational needs into robust, scalable sonar solutions.

• Key Responsibilities:

  • Lead the definition and development of sonar system architectures for ASW applications
  • Develop and maintain system models, interface definitions, and performance budgets
  • Collaborate with systems, hardware, and software teams to ensure end-to-end integration
  • Provide technical governance, design reviews, and assurance across the sonar product line
  • Support bid activities and technical proposals for new business opportunities

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
• Applicable and suitable experience can be substituted for qualifications.

Essential skills

• Proven track record in sonar systems architecture or underwater acoustics
• Strong understanding of signal processing, acoustic modelling, and sonar subsystems
• Excellent stakeholder communication and leadership skills

Desired skills

• Ability to analyse complex technical problems and generate effective solutions. 
• Strong interpersonal skills for effective cross-functional collaboration. 
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, capable of articulating complex technical concepts to diverse audiences. 
• Comfortable working in a dynamic, fast-paced environment with evolving priorities.

Experience

• Experience delivering complex defence systems within MOD frameworks.
• Domain Knowledge: Submarine or wider Maritime Defence experience preferred; SONAR experience is a distinct advantage.

What do I need before I apply

• Engineers must meet the following criteria:
  • Security Cleared (SC, sole UK national, BPSS)
  • Onsite Availability: Minimum 3 days per week at Cheadle
  • Lifecycle Familiarity: Demonstrated experience across the full V-model development lifecycle
  • Leadership Ability: Self-starting and capable of leading small engineering teams when required

Benefits

• Collaborative working environment – we stand shoulder to shoulder with our clients and our peers through good times and challenges 
• We empower all passionate technology loving professionals by allowing them to expand their skills and take part in inspiring projects 
• Expleo Academy - enables you to acquire and develop the right skills by delivering a suite of accredited training courses 
• Competitive company benefits
• Always working as one team, our people are not afraid to think big and challenge the status quo

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• As a Disability Confident Committed Employer we have committed to:
• Ensure our recruitment process is inclusive and accessible
• Communicating and promoting vacancies
• Offering an interview to disabled people who meet the minimum criteria for the job
• Anticipating and providing reasonable adjustments as required
• Supporting any existing employee who acquires a disability or long term health condition, enabling them to stay in work at least one activity that will make a difference for disabled people

“We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of their race, sex, disability, religion/belief, sexual orientation or age”. 

We treat everyone fairly and equitably across the organisation, including providing any additional support and adjustments needed for everyone to thrive

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