Senior Principal Engineer (DSC/HL)

Purpose of the Role:

Lead the development and strategic adoption of Quantum Sensing and broader Quantum Technologies to drive dual-use applications across Defence and Commercial domains, delivering impactful business outcomes and advancing ST Engineering's technology leadership.

This role reports to the Group Chief Technology and Digital Officer.

Key Responsibilities:

Technology Leadership & Scanning

Lead systematic scanning, evaluation, and assessment of emerging quantum technologies, including:

• Quantum hardware (e.g., superconducting, ion trap, silicon-based, photonics)
• Quantum operating systems and programming frameworks
• Quantum communications (e.g., QKD and key management)
• Quantum sensing and metrology

Drive knowledge dissemination across the CTO community.

Strategy & Business Integration

Develop and execute R&D strategies and roadmaps aligned to business priorities.

Partner closely with business units to:

• Identify high-value use cases for quantum sensing
• Translate technologies into deployable solutions
• Integrate capabilities into product and business roadmaps

Ecosystem Development

Establish and cultivate a robust R&D ecosystem across:

• Global and local start-ups
• Technology vendors
• Institutes of Higher Learning (IHLs) and Research Institutes (RIs)
• Government agencies

Drive collaboration to co-develop innovative, commercially viable solutions.

Solution Development & Influence

Influence and guide the development of quantum-enabled solutions across Defence and Commercial domains to achieve strategic objectives and business impact.

Investment & Governance

Collaborate with Technology Offices and R&D community to:

• Identify and recommend strategic technology investments
• Align funding priorities with corporate and Business Units objectives

Executive Engagement

Advise senior leadership and stakeholders on:

• Quantum technology trends and roadmaps
• Business applications and strategic implications

Represent Group Technology Office in high-level engagements (internal and external).

Requirements:

Technical Expertise

Strong grounding in quantum technologies (hardware, sensing, software, or communications)

Strong understanding of:

• Quantum hardware systems and subsystems (RF, microwave, optoelectronics, PICs, micro-optics)
• Qubit platforms and technologies (superconducting, ion trap, silicon-based, photonic)

Experience with quantum programming and tools (e.g., Python, Qiskit, AWS Braket, Forest, Silq, QCL)

Experience

Proven track record in advanced technology R&D, strategy development, and technology roadmapping

Experience translating emerging technologies into real-world applications

Skills & Attributes

Strong analytical and problem-solving capability

Excellent stakeholder management, communication, and presentation skills

Strong project management and organisational skills

High level of professionalism and integrity