Lead Systems Engineer - Defence Projects (Germany)Location:Hiring in Bavaria & Baden-Württemberg - HybridSector:Defence & Aerospace Systems EngineeringOverviewWe are engaged on a mission-critical defence programme requiring a Lead Systems Engineer to drive system design, integration, and delivery across complex defence-grade platforms. The role demands a balance of technical depth and leadership, you'll be hands-on with architecture, verification, and integration, while guiding a small team of engineers through the full lifecycle.Core ResponsibilitiesLead system architecture, design, and integration for defence-grade platforms (avionics, mission systems, comms, sensors).Own the requirements engineering process from capture and analysis through to verification and validation.Drive end-to-end system integration, ensuring interoperability, reliability, and compliance with safety-critical standards.Coordinate with hardware, software, and test teams to resolve complex engineering challenges.Produce and review technical documentation, including design specs, interface definitions, and compliance reports.Act as the primary technical lead during design reviews, audits, and client-facing technical discussions.Mentor junior engineers, providing technical oversight while remaining embedded in hands-on engineering.Required ExperienceProven track record in systems engineering within defence/aerospace programmes.Excellent technical documentation and communication skills in English + German B2 (minimum)Hands-on experience across the V-model lifecycle, requirements, architecture, integration, verification.Strong background in systems integration (sensors, avionics, communications, mission systems, or equivalent).Familiarity with MBSE tools (SysML, Cameo, Enterprise Architect, Rhapsody, or equivalent).Knowledge of safety-critical standards (DO-178C, DO-254, ISO 15288, or similar).Ability to work across multi-disciplinary teams (hardware, software, mechanical, electronics).Security clearance (or eligibility) required.DesirableExperience with defence certification and qualification processes.Exposure to simulation, test environments, and HIL rigs.Prior work with NATO or German defence primes (Airbus Defence, Rheinmetall, MBDA, Diehl, Hensoldt, etc.).Leadership experience in guiding small technical teams.Cloud experience/ exposure - AWS/ Azure