Head of Systems Engineering - Physical Products

About the role

As Head of Systems Engineering, you will own the strategy, design, and delivery of systems engineering across Helsing's hardware-centric and mechatronic programmes. You will lead the definition and integration of complex physical systems spanning ground-based and aviation-based platforms – work that directly shapes the operational capability of allied defence forces.

What you'll do

• Define, implement, and scale the overall systems engineering strategy, processes, and tooling – including Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) – across all physical product lines
• Build, lead, and develop a department of systems engineers, architects, and safety specialists, creating the conditions for sustained high performance and professional growth
• Establish and own system architectures for complex mechatronic systems, ensuring coherent alignment across software, AI, and defence system requirements
• Serve as the technical authority on critical defence system attributes – including Reliability, Availability, Maintainability, and Safety (RAMS) – and ensure regulatory compliance across all programmes
• Collaborate with software architects, mechanical and electrical engineers, and AI specialists to translate high-level operational requirements into deeply integrated, effective solutions
• Hold accountability for system integration, verification, and validation, as well as the qualification and certification of all hardware-software platforms
• Establish and enforce quality assurance protocols, lead thorough root-cause analyses, and mitigate system-level risks across the full product lifecycle
• Manage department timelines, resource allocation, and budgets to deliver concurrent programmes within scope and on schedule

What you'll need

• Have built and led systems engineering functions for complex mechatronic, autonomous, or defence hardware programmes – spanning architecture, integration, and qualification through to certification
• Have delivered end-to-end integration, verification, and validation of hardware-software platforms in safety-critical or regulated environments
• Have applied MBSE methodologies and systems architecture frameworks to manage requirements and complexity across large-scale physical systems
• Bring deep expertise in RAMS principles and the regulatory landscape governing defence or aerospace hardware
• Have engaged directly with defence customers, procurement agencies, or industry partners, translating operational needs into precise engineering requirements
• Are fluent in English and eligible to obtain the security clearance required under the relevant national framework

What they offer

• Competitive salary and stock options (ESOP)
• Relocation support: up to €2,500 and 4 weeks temporary accommodation
• Learning: €500/£450 yearly allowance
• Health & wellness: gym membership and mental health support (Nilo.health)
• Social: regular company events and monthly social allowances