Autonomy Solution Architect - Outside IR35

Our client is seeking an experienced Autonomy Solution Architect for a senior contract role within the defence and security sector. Based in the UK with hybrid working, this opportunity involves taking ownership of the end-to-end technical solution for an advanced autonomy platform, supporting the development and deployment of autonomous and uncrewed systems from concept through to operational service.

Key Responsibilities

Own and develop the architecture for an advanced autonomy platform, including onboard systems, mission management, communications, simulation environments and remote operational capabilities. Define system interfaces, APIs, data models, telemetry architectures and non-functional performance requirements. Translate customer requirements, operational needs and product priorities into technical roadmaps and deliverable capability increments. Lead architectural decisions across software, autonomy, communications, safety and cyber security domains. Develop concepts of operation, Operational Design Domain assumptions and technical solution options. Define and govern virtual integration, simulation and testing environments, including Software-in-the-Loop and Hardware-in-the-Loop activities. Lead verification, validation, integration, commissioning, trials and operational deployment activities, ensuring traceability from requirements through to testing and release recommendations. Manage technical integration with suppliers, partners and third-party technologies while mentoring engineers and strengthening systems engineering capability.

Essential Requirements:

Significant experience architecting and delivering autonomy, robotics, maritime, aerospace, automotive or other safety-critical systems within the defence and security sector. Strong systems engineering and systems architecture expertise, with the ability to translate stakeholder and operational requirements into robust technical solutions. Experience defining modular architectures, interfaces, APIs and software integration strategies across sensors, networks, compute platforms and physical systems. Practical experience with simulation, Software-in-the-Loop, Hardware-in-the-Loop, testing, field trials, safety engineering, assurance activities and configuration control. Ability to lead multidisciplinary technical teams and influence stakeholders across software, systems engineering, autonomy, communications, operations and cyber security. Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to explain complex technical concepts clearly. Degree qualified or able to demonstrate equivalent experience in Systems Engineering, Robotics, Autonomous Systems, Computer Science, Software Engineering, Electronic Engineering, Control Engineering or a related discipline. Eligibility to obtain UK Security Clearance and willingness to travel within the UK and occasionally overseas.

Desirable Experience:

Experience with autonomous maritime systems, uncrewed vehicles or defence autonomy programmes. Knowledge of maritime navigation and COLREG-compliant autonomous behaviours. Experience with ROS 2, DDS or comparable robotics frameworks. Familiarity with radar, EO/IR, AIS, GNSS, LiDAR, sonar and sensor fusion technologies. Knowledge of Model-Based Systems Engineering, SysML and digital engineering practices. Experience with C++, Python and modern software development methodologies. Understanding of functional safety, cyber security and defence assurance frameworks. Chartered Engineer status, INCOSE certification, equivalent professional accreditation or existing UK Security Clearance.If you are an experienced Autonomy Solution Architect with a background in defence, robotics, autonomous systems or safety-critical engineering, apply now to contribute to the delivery of advanced uncrewed capabilities