Our systems engineers help to make dream technologies of the future a reality today. They fine-tune all the different parts of a system to create world-first software, machinery and services.
This article will explain exactly what the role involves and how you could secure a job in systems engineering at BAE Systems.
Having worked at many large aerospace organisations around the world in different roles, it’s good to know that BAE Systems is one of the best in terms of its engineering excellence, career opportunities and support for STEM and early careers initiatives. Engineering candidates of any age, gender or background can be reassured they will receive all the support, training and career opportunities they desire.Vanessa, Engineering
What is systems engineering?
Systems engineering is the end-to-end process which allows a complex system to be built efficiently and work as planned. This system could be anything from a computer algorithm to a business process or even a nuclear-powered submarine.
The work that a systems engineer does goes beyond the physical building of a machine, structure or piece of software. It could cover a variety of factors ranging from taking a complex systems engineering project from the planning phase, all the way to completion.
And the work doesn’t end there - the system then usually needs to be maintained and refined further, after launch.
What does a systems engineer do?
As a systems engineer, you find the best way to make incredible things happen. For example, playing your part in launching a new web application, communication system or military vehicle.
Whatever the new system is, you and your team might oversee all the elements that must come together, to create it. This could include connecting aspects such as:
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Design – Helping to devise the initial concept and work out the combination of components needed to make up the system.
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Work processes – Streamlining existing business processes and creating new ones if needed, so things can happen as quickly as possible.
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Logistics – Managing where, when and how physical parts are delivered at various stages of the build.
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Risk and reliability – Analysing the risk of using certain components or processes and working out the solutions if problems arise.
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People management – Coordinating the various teams involved in the project and making sure they are communicating and collaborating well together.
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Testing and evaluation – Carrying out several phases of testing to ensure the system is fit for purpose and can be launched.
The nature of systems engineering means that no two roles in this innovative field are the same. However, jobs in systems engineering are sometimes categorised into one of the following areas:
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Product systems engineering – More traditional engineering jobs that focus on creating physical machines, hardware and software.
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Service systems engineering – Devising and implementing a new service, which might be a combination of people, technology or information. Either way, it’s a resource needed to satisfy the needs of a customer or feed another system.
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Enterprise systems engineering – Applying engineering to create organisations and the processes that those businesses need, in order for them to operate.
Are systems engineers in demand?
Systems engineers are in high demand around the world, as organisations across industries increasingly adopt emerging technologies to stay competitive. According to recent analysis by Michael Page, the top 5 most in-demand professions in the world are software engineers and developers, followed by electronics engineers, mechanical engineers, nurses, and doctors.
At BAE Systems, we’re proud to be one of the world’s leading engineering employers, offering a wide range of systems engineer jobs where you can contribute to impactful, forward-thinking projects on a global scale.
The work of systems engineers is vital as we continue to develop our cutting-edge security products and services. This means we’re always on the lookout for new engineering talent to join us and help lead advances in air, land, sea, cyber and space.
As well as offering you industry leading benefits, we’ll give you the chance to shape the next big technology breakthroughs. Together with a supportive and close-knit engineering community, you can help to change the world that we live in, making it more secure for us all.
How do I become a systems engineer?
Systems engineers have a wide range of skills and knowledge, which usually starts with a degree in systems engineering or closely related engineering experience or qualification.
Key skills for a systems engineer include:
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Problem solving
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Technical skills
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Critical thinking
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Teamwork
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Project management
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Time management
Whether you're a recent engineering graduate or an experienced professional, BAE Systems offers a wide range of opportunities to grow your career. Our early careers programmes provide an excellent starting point, while more experienced engineering professionals can take on impactful roles around the world - shaping the future of technology and global security.
Why join BAE Systems?
At BAE Systems you can expect to work on bold and pioneering projects, whichever business area you join. Systems engineers are vital in making our mission-critical defence technology a reality.
We’re looking for talented people with an engineering background to join an inclusive team united in their purpose – to shape and evolve the security technology of the future and push the limits of what’s possible.
If you want to make a meaningful impact in your everyday work and be rewarded with industry leading benefits, why not browse our latest systems engineer jobs. You might also want to find out more about life at BAE Systems or read our inspiring employee stories.