FULL-TIME | UK & ARCTIC | ENGINEERING
THE LAST FRONTIER
Arctic Research and Development (ARD) is building technology to unlock the last great frontier on Earth. An expanse 1.5 times the size of the US, the Arctic is becoming the epicenter of geopolitical tensions, climatic shifts, and economic opportunity. We cut through this complexity — while preserving the integrity of the planet’s most fragile wilderness.
Built by pioneers with 30+ years of polar experience, we know that autonomous systems are the key to operational success. Working at the fringes of technological capabilities, this is a company that takes big bets on hard problems.
If you want to build and deploy ground-up technology with real-world impact - at an inflection point in history that won’t reappear - we want you at ARD.
THE ROLE
As a Systems Engineer at ARD, you’ll sit at the nerve centre of our product stack — designing, integrating, and owning the connective tissue between software, electronics, autonomy, and Arctic-ready hardware. You’ll go from whiteboard to working system, navigating the challenges of Arctic constraints with clarity and speed. This role is equal parts architect, integrator, and hands-on problem solver — with a direct line to the field, the client, and the mission.
CORE RESPONSIBILITIES
Own the system architecture from first sketch to deployed stack — across hardware, software, and subsystems
Lead integration across ARD’s product line — ensuring a software-hardware fluency
Build in reliability, availability, maintainability, and safety (RAMS) from day one
Conduct in-depth analysis to identify potential risks and system vulnerabilities
Ensure all solutions adhere to safety protocols, industry standards, and governmental guidelines
Travel to the Arctic when needed for R&D field testing and client meetings
WHAT WE VALUE
5+ years of hands-on systems engineering experience — across hardware/software boundaries
Degree in Systems, Electrical Engineering, or a related field with a demonstrable portfolio of previous work
Deep understanding of system design, architecture, and integration in rugged, distributed environments
Strong communication across disciplines — you can speak “mechanical”, “RF”, and “code”
Proven ability to ship complex projects under real constraints — cost, time, temperature
Field readiness — you’re operationally capable and ready to test gear in sub-zero environments
WHAT WE OFFER
Stock options and a competitive compensation
Mission-driven culture – focus on impact, not hours logged
Real field exposure – travel to Arctic sites and Outposts when needed
Skills Required
- 5+ years of hands-on systems engineering experience across hardware and software boundaries
- Degree in Systems Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field
- Demonstrable portfolio of previous work
- Deep understanding of system design, architecture, and integration in rugged, distributed environments
- Strong cross-disciplinary communication across mechanical, RF, and software domains
- Proven ability to deliver complex projects under cost, time, and temperature constraints
- Operational readiness for field testing in sub-zero environments
What We Do
Arctic Research and Development (ARD) develops mission-critical hardware, software, and intelligent autonomous systems for the Arctic, where autonomy, climate resilience, and national security intersect. Its work includes cold-hardened energy systems and autonomous surface and subsurface platforms designed for extreme polar conditions. The company serves government, research, logistics, and energy customers, aiming to enable reliable operations in the rapidly changing Arctic.
