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Contract Lead Systems Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SAIC

Lead Systems Engineer

Colorado Springs, CO · On-site

ORA_ON_SITE Description We are seeking a Lead Systems Engineer (LSE) t o lead engineering efforts on the AF TENCAP HOPE 2.0 program-a fast-paced, high-impact initiative focused on delivering ...

Leidos

Lead Systems Engineer

Colorado Springs, CO · On-site

$107K - $195K/yr

Lead Systems Engineer - Ground-Based Radar Digitization (GBRD) Location: Colorado Springs, CO Make a Meaningful Impact at Leidos At Leidos , we deliver innovative solutions through the dedication of ...

SAIC

Lead Systems Engineer

Colorado Springs, CO · Hybrid

ORA_ON_SITE Description We are seeking a Lead Systems Engineer (LSE) t o lead engineering efforts on the AF TENCAP HOPE 2.0 program--a fast-paced, high-impact initiative focused on delivering ...

Red River

S. Navy's PEO IWS-X initiative, the Lead Systems Engineer provides technical leadership for the design, integration, and testing of complex systems, including KVM-based virtualization, system ...

L3Harris Technologies

Lead, Systems Engineer

Waco, TX · On-site

Lead, Systems Engineering - Military Commercial Derivative Aircraft (MCDA) Modification Design, Integration, & Certification - *Sign-on bonuses between $15,000K - $25,000K* Job Code: 37621 Job ...

CWPS

Lead Systems Engineer

King George, VA · On-site

S. Navy's PEO IWS-X initiative, the Lead Systems Engineer provides technical leadership for the design, integration, and testing of complex systems, including KVM-based virtualization, system ...

Hologic Inc.

Lead Systems Engineer

Newark, DE

$119K - $186K/yr

The Lead Systems Engineer is responsible for owning and driving the system-level definition, integration, and verification of capital/hardware equipment. This role provides technical leadership ...

Hologic

Lead Systems Engineer

Newark, DE · On-site

$119K - $186K/yr

The Lead Systems Engineer is responsible for owning and driving the system-level definition, integration, and verification of capital/hardware equipment. This role provides technical leadership ...

L3HHCM20

Lead Systems Engineer

Millersville, MD · On-site

$92K - $171K/yr

Lead, Systems Engineer Job Code: 36283 Job Location: Millersville, MD (on-site) Schedule: 9/80 Regular Schedule (Every other Friday off) L3Harris is dedicated to recruiting and developing diverse ...

SAIC

Lead Systems Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

SAIC has an immediate opening for an innovative Lead Systems Engineering Technical Advisor (SETA) to provide direct customer support on a critical development effort. This opportunity is part of a ...

SAIC

Lead Systems Engineer

Colorado Springs, CO · On-site

$200K - $240K/yr

Description We are seeking a Lead Systems Engineer (LSE) t o lead engineering efforts on the AF TENCAP HOPE 2.0 program-a fast-paced, high-impact initiative focused on delivering innovative ...

Gehc

Lead Systems Engineer

Waukesha, WI

We are looking for a Lead Systems Engineer to focus on the development and integration of Software as a Service (SaaS) components along with a common network framework (SDK) that will be utilized ...

GE HealthCare

Lead Systems Engineer

Waukesha, WI · On-site

We are looking for a Lead Systems Engineer to focus on the development and integration of Software as a Service (SaaS) components along with a common network framework (SDK) that will be utilized ...

L3HHCM20

Lead, Systems Engineer

Greenville, TX

Lead, Systems Engineer Job Code: 35438 Job Location: Greenville, TX Job Schedule: 9/80 The Lead Systems Engineer (SE) will supervise a team supporting the requirements, design, development, test ...

Space Kinetic

Lead Systems Engineer

Los Angeles, CA

We are seeking a Lead Systems Engineer to be a key contributor to our current programs. Own the development, allocation, and management of launch vehicle system requirements. Lead vehicle-level ...

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Contract Lead Systems Engineer information

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$91K

$199.3K

$253K

How much do contract lead systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract lead systems engineer in the United States is $199,327.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $167,000.00 and $253,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Contract Lead Systems Engineer do?

A Contract Lead Systems Engineer is responsible for overseeing the design, integration, and management of complex systems on a project basis. They coordinate technical teams, ensure all system components work together effectively, and address any engineering challenges that arise during the contract period. Their role often involves liaising between clients, stakeholders, and engineering teams to ensure project requirements are met on time and within budget.

What is the difference between Contract Lead Systems Engineer vs Contract Systems Engineer?

AspectContract Lead Systems EngineerContract Systems Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field; often PMP or relevant certificationsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field; certifications are a plus
Work EnvironmentLeading project teams, coordinating system development, client interactionSupporting system development, testing, and implementation tasks
Employer & Industry UsageDefense, aerospace, government contractors, large tech firmsSimilar industries, often in same projects as Lead Engineers

The Contract Lead Systems Engineer typically oversees projects, manages teams, and liaises with clients, requiring leadership skills. The Contract Systems Engineer focuses on technical tasks like system design and testing. Both roles require engineering credentials and are common in defense and aerospace sectors, but the Lead role emphasizes project management and coordination.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Contract Lead Systems Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contract Lead Systems Engineer, you need deep expertise in systems engineering principles, requirements management, and integration, typically supported by a bachelor’s or master’s degree in engineering and relevant industry experience. Familiarity with modeling tools (such as SysML), requirements management software (like DOORS), and certifications like INCOSE CSEP are commonly expected. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills help drive cross-functional teams and manage complex projects effectively. These competencies ensure successful system delivery, risk mitigation, and alignment with client and organizational goals.

What are some typical challenges a Contract Lead Systems Engineer might face when joining a new project team?

As a Contract Lead Systems Engineer, you may encounter challenges such as quickly understanding existing systems and processes, integrating with a team that may already have established workflows, and managing stakeholder expectations within a limited contract timeframe. Balancing technical leadership with the need to build relationships and foster collaboration is essential, especially when guiding the team through complex system requirements and design decisions. Being adaptable and proactive in communication will help you overcome these hurdles and deliver effective solutions.
What cities are hiring for Contract Lead Systems Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Contract Lead Systems Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Lead Systems Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Lead Systems Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Contract Lead Systems Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Contract Lead Systems Engineer jobs include:
Contract Lead Systems Engineer jobs near you
Lead Systems Engineer

Lead Systems Engineer

SAIC

Colorado Springs, CO • On-site

Other

Posted 13 days ago

SAIC rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

66th of 206 rated it services

Job description

Job ID: 2612575
Location: Colorado Springs, CO, US
Date Posted: 2026-05-14
Category: Engineering and Sciences
Subcategory: Systems Engineer
Schedule: Full-Time
Shift: Day Job
Travel: Yes - 10% of the time
Minimum Clearance Required: TS.SCI
Clearance Level Must Be Able to Obtain: None
Potential for Remote Work: ORA_ON_SITE
Description
We are seeking a Lead Systems Engineer (LSE) to lead engineering efforts on the AF TENCAP HOPE 2.0 program-a fast-paced, high-impact initiative focused on delivering innovative prototypes that rapidly enhance warfighter capabilities across air, space, cyber, and multi-domain mission areas. In this role, as the senior technical leader, you will oversee and guide engineering teams, ensuring effective alignment, engineering rigor, and a clear path to solving complex technical problems. You will set the vision for technical excellence, lead collaborative efforts across stakeholders, and ensure a robust systems engineering approach is applied consistently across all efforts.
As the Lead Systems Engineer, you will perform a critical role in driving innovation, directing the design and development of prototypes, facilitating seamless communication, and elevating the technical culture of the team. You will guide and mentor technical staff while enabling rapid prototyping, technical execution, and successful transition to prototypes in support of advancing warfighter capabilities.
The ideal candidate thrives in high-performing, mission-driven environments, has extensive experience leading technical teams, and demonstrates a strong ability to direct the technical components of fast-evolving prototyping programs. You are forward-thinking, proactive, and excel at guiding teams to solve complex challenges using innovative solutions. You take ownership of program success while empowering teams with the clarity, vision, and tools needed to achieve it.
Location Requirement: Local to Colorado Springs, CO, and expected to be on-site with the customer 3+ days a week.
Clearance Requirement: Active TS with SCI Eligibility.
Travel Requirement: Occasional travel (~10-15%).
Responsibilities
  • Serve as the key technical leader across the program, providing direction to ensure engineering discipline, technical alignment, quality, and delivery.
  • Lead technical design reviews, plan and facilitate engineering discussions, and drive resolution of technical challenges.
  • Represent the engineering team and articulate technical perspectives and trade-offs during government and customer engagements.
  • Author and review critical deliverables, including engineering baselines, plans, and technical documentation, ensuring credibility and accuracy in all communications.
  • Collaborate with Solution Architects and Innovation teams to evaluate emerging concepts and ensure technical feasibility and mission alignment.
  • Provide technical mentorship to engineering staff, fostering professional development, teamwork, and a culture of innovation and ownership.
  • Build and maintain alignment across multiple, concurrent projects and their stakeholders on engineering approaches, priorities, and resource utilization.
  • Coordinate schedules, dependencies, and resource allocation across the program, ensuring synchronization with the PMO.
  • Oversee and ensure engineering rigor across prototypes, system updates, and rapid development tasks while fostering self-organization and adaptability in the teams.
  • Develop and refine engineering processes, tools, templates, and best practices to enhance team productivity and performance.
  • Lead Test & Evaluation (T&E) activities, ensuring prototypes meet performance metrics and deliver value to the mission.
  • Proactively engage with the Government Chief Engineer to anticipate requirements and ensure technical needs are met to exceed performance expectations.
  • Champion Agile methodologies, iterative development, continuous improvement, and transparency through process-driven collaboration.

Qualifications
Qualifications
  • Bachelor of Science in Engineering with 18 years of relevant experience in the engineering field.
  • Active Top Secret clearance with SCI eligibility.
  • 12+ years of experience leading systems engineering work, including directing complex engineering designs and delivering high-performance solutions.
  • Proven experience in managing engineering teams involved in conceiving, planning, and conducting research for complex and innovative technological challenges.
  • 5+ years of experience managing engineering efforts directly supporting Department of Defense (DoD) service organizations and/or Intelligence Community (IC) agencies.

Desired Qualifications
  • Active INCOSE Certification highly desired.
  • Master of Science in Engineering.
  • 5+ years of experience in rapid prototyping, test & evaluation (T&E), and development.
  • Experience with the integration, development, and application of advanced technology sources (e.g., SIGINT, GEOINT) and engineering systems or data flows.
  • Software development and data management experience a plus.

Target salary range: $200,001 - $240,000. The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors.
SAIC is a premier technology integrator providing full life cycle services and solutions in the technical, engineering, intelligence, and enterprise information technology markets. SAIC is Redefining Ingenuity through its deep customer and domain knowledge to enable the delivery of systems engineering and integration offerings for large, complex projects. SAIC's approximately 15,000 employees are driven by integrity and mission focus to serve customers in the U.S. federal government. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, SAIC has annual revenues of approximately $4.5 billion. For more information, visit saic.com. For information on the benefits SAIC offers, see .

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