Principal Manufacturing Engineer at BAE Systems | jobs in UK

About BAE Systems

BAE Systems is a global defence, aerospace, and security company delivering advanced, technology-led solutions across complex engineering environments. Its teams work across land, sea, air, space, and cyber domains, using engineering expertise and digital technologies to support major programmes and create innovative solutions.

Role Overview

As a Principal Manufacturing Engineer – Manufacturing Systems at BAE Systems, the successful candidate will act as a technical authority within the Manufacturing Systems Team at Govan, Glasgow. The role will support and mentor manufacturing engineers while helping deliver digital manufacturing systems that create measurable business value.

The position will contribute directly to the Type 26 programme and future shipbuilding projects, working closely with Operations, IT, Manufacturing Engineering, and other key functions. The successful candidate will help develop integrated digital solutions that improve efficiency, manufacturing capability, and decision-making.

The role also includes acting as the Test Manager for the Manufacturing Execution System (MES), taking ownership of the end-to-end testing process and overseeing the planning, execution, and completion of associated work packages.

Key Responsibilities as Principal Manufacturing Engineer

• Provide technical leadership and mentoring to manufacturing engineers.
• Support capability development across the Manufacturing Systems Team.
• Act as Test Manager for the Manufacturing Execution System (MES).
• Own the end-to-end MES testing process and maintain effective governance.
• Plan, coordinate, execute, and complete manufacturing systems test work packages.
• Develop, integrate, and utilise manufacturing systems data to support informed decision-making.
• Analyse manufacturing data to identify opportunities for process optimisation.
• Support the manufacturing systems requirements lifecycle.
• Work with cross-functional teams to deliver tactical projects and MES work packages.
• Investigate manufacturing systems issues and perform root cause analysis.
• Drive timely and effective solutions to manufacturing systems problems.
• Champion continuous improvement across digital manufacturing capabilities.
• Support improvements to manufacturing processes and data governance.
• Assist the Manufacturing Engineering Manager with manufacturing systems strategy.
• Exercise Product Owner Delegation of Authority (DOA) for manufacturing systems and related initiatives.
• Coordinate technical activities and ensure high-quality outcomes are delivered within agreed timescales.

Salary & Working Arrangement

• Job Title: Principal Manufacturing Engineer – Manufacturing Systems
• Company: BAE Systems
• Location: Govan, Glasgow, United Kingdom
• Salary: Up to £53,100
• Work Type: On-site, full-time
• Working Arrangement: Hybrid and flexible options may be available depending on the role and business requirements
• Category: Trades, Manufacturing and Operations
• Experience Level: Experienced Professionals
• Closing Date: 9 October 2026
• The vacancy may close earlier if sufficient applications are received.

Security & Eligibility

The Principal Manufacturing Engineer – Manufacturing Systems position at BAE Systems is subject to security and export-control requirements. Applicants must achieve at least Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) clearance.

Some positions may require higher levels of National Security Vetting. Depending on the required vetting level, applicants may typically need between five and ten years of continuous UK residency to support meaningful security checks. Nationality, previous nationalities, and place of birth may also affect eligibility for certain roles.

Start Your Career With BAE Systems

The Principal Manufacturing Engineer – Manufacturing Systems position at BAE Systems provides an opportunity for an experienced engineering professional to contribute to digital transformation within Naval Ships manufacturing.

The successful candidate will provide technical leadership, support MES testing and governance, analyse manufacturing data, improve digital manufacturing capabilities, and contribute to the Type 26 programme and future shipbuilding projects.

Apply Now to become a Principal Manufacturing Engineer – Manufacturing Systems with BAE Systems and contribute to advanced digital manufacturing and shipbuilding programmes in Glasgow.