Head of Systems Engineering

Are you ready to shape the future of defense systems? Located in Liège, this opportunity offers a chance to lead groundbreaking advancements in system engineering. As Head of Systems Engineering, you will play a pivotal role in transforming complex defense technologies into modular, software-centric solutions that redefine industry standards. Join a dynamic sector where your expertise will drive progress and make an impact.

As the Head of Systems Engineering, you will be responsible for ensuring technical excellence across all aspects of system architecture, integration, industrialization, and lifecycle support. Your leadership will be instrumental in transitioning from product-focused operations to integrated, modular systems that prioritize execution and innovation. Key responsibilities include:

• System Architecture Mastery: Define and oversee reference architectures (mechanical, electronic, software, interfaces) while ensuring seamless integration between effectors, sensors, embedded software, connectivity, and lifecycle support requirements.
• Cross-Functional Technical Leadership: Act as the de facto Head of System Engineering, making critical technical decisions across the portfolio and serving as the authority for programs, production teams, technology partners, and demanding military clients.
• Software & Robotic Systems Development: Establish software as a core industrial pillar by advancing practices in real-time robotics, control-command systems, safety-critical software, and cyber resilience. Promote simulation tools, digital twins, automated testing, and continuous integration tailored to high-stakes environments.
• Execution & Industrialization: Ensure architectural choices are scalable for mass production while maintaining cost efficiency. Collaborate closely with production departments, supply chain teams, quality assurance units, and lifecycle support experts to avoid prototype stagnation.
• Technological Partnerships: Drive strategic partnerships in areas such as sensors, counter-UAS systems, autonomy software, and more. Integrate external components seamlessly without compromising system integrity.

To excel in this role as Head of Systems Engineering, you should bring:

• Experience:
• 15+ years in engineering complex systems.
• Background in performance robotics (e.g., military/security robotics, drones/autonomous systems, critical industrial robotics).
• Proven track record in hardware/software integration, multi-disciplinary systems development, serial production implementation, and long lifecycle management within certified/safety-critical environments.
• Fluency in French and English is a must.
• Key Technical Skills:
• Expertise in system engineering with a holistic approach.
• Proficiency in mechatronic architectures, embedded electronics design, real-time software/middleware/communication frameworks.
• Deep understanding of trade-offs between performance vs. cost, sophistication vs. robustness, and innovation vs. industrialization.
• Leadership Qualities:
• Strategic technical leadership with decision-making authority.
• Ability to standardize processes and confidently say "no" when necessary.
• Comfortable navigating constrained industrial environments with exposure to demanding clients like armed forces.
• Credibility among senior engineers, program managers, and high-level technology partners.

This position provides:

• A unique opportunity to lead transformative projects within a cutting-edge sector focused on defense systems innovation.
• Collaboration with top-tier professionals across engineering disciplines and international networks.
• The chance to influence industry standards through strategic decision-making and technical mastery.
• Competitive compensation aligned with your expertise and leadership capabilities.

Call to Action
Ready to take charge of tomorrow’s defense technologies? If you’re a visionary leader with a passion for system engineering excellence and industrial credibility, we want to hear from you!

Apply now to embark on a career-defining journey where your skills will shape the future of modular defense systems innovation.

Robert Walters Belgium is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy.