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Contract Lead Systems Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

CWPS

Lead Systems Engineer

King George, VA

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 ...

L3HHCM20

Lead, Systems Engineer

Greenville, TX · On-site

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 ...

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 ...

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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 7, 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.

How much do lead systems engineers make in the US?

Lead systems engineers in the US typically earn between $100,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, industry, and location. Senior roles often include additional responsibilities such as project management and system design, with salaries increasing for those with specialized skills or certifications.
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What are the most commonly searched types of Lead Systems Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Lead Systems Engineer jobs are:
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Contract Lead Systems Engineer jobs near you

Lead Systems Engineer

SYSTEMS PLANNING AND ANALYSIS, INC.

Lorton, VA

$170K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Overview
Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. (SPA) delivers high-impact, technical solutions to complex national security issues. With over 50 years of business expertise and consistent growth, we are known for continuous innovation for our government customers, in both the US and abroad. Our exceptionally talented team is highly collaborative in spirit and practice, producing Results that Matter. Come work with the best! We offer opportunity, unique challenges, and clear-sighted commitment to the mission. Objective. Responsive. Trusted.
Comprising more than 130 personnel, the Integrated Warfare Systems Group (IWSG) delivers expertise across program and project management, acquisition and contracting, systems and digital engineering, software development, test and evaluation, sustainment and life‑cycle management, cybersecurity, international/Foreign Military Sales, strategic communications, and IT services. These capabilities support more than 100 Above Water Sensor, Undersea, and Combat System programs and projects within the Navy's Portfolio Acquisition Executive for Mission Systems, Maritime and Munitions, as well as clients at Naval Surface Warfare Center, Dahlgren Division, Naval Surface Warfare Center, Crane Division, and the Office of Naval Research.#FC #Dice
Responsibilities
We are seeking a Lead Systems Engineer to support NAVSEA from SPA's office in Washington, DC.
The successful candidate will support NAVSEA and be responsible for developing, fielding, and sustaining operationally superior weapons systems / combat systems and performing the full spectrum of systems engineering, modeling and simulation, test and evaluation, life cycle support, combat system integration, and production engineering to provide quality systems engineering and integration for the Department of Defense. Position responsibilities include provision of effective systems engineering and integration for Surface Navy weapons systems in the areas of Air Defense, Missile Defense, and Anti-Surface Warfare including, but not limited to, Standard Missile (SM) variants, Surface Missile Systems, and Vertical Launch System (VLS) across multiple ship classes.
At SPA, we strive to deliver a robust total compensation package that will attract and retain the top talent. Elements of the compensation package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities.
SPA provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and a number of programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work.
The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, etc. Please note that the salary information shown below is a general guideline only. Salaries are commensurate with experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations. Salary Range: $170k-200k.
Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in an Engineering or related technical field.
  • At least fifteen (15) years of experience in conducting detailed, complex engineering activities associated with engineering systems, capabilities, and activities for Surface Navy Weapons Systems.
  • Demonstrated experience with functional and system level requirements analysis, requirements generation, and technical community review, including inter-agency and Joint Service program cooperation and solutions.
  • Demonstrated experience in the development of systems engineering, including the definition, functional allocation, design development, modeling and simulation, testing, integration, and production / life cycle support for military applications.
  • Demonstrated experience with development of total system solutions that acknowledge technical, schedule, and cost constraints.
  • Active DoD TOP SECRET clearance, and the ability to maintain it throughout employment.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Master's degree in an Engineering or related technical field.
  • Demonstrated experience with Foreign Military Sales (FMS).
  • Demonstrated experience providing technical support for Naval Science & Technology (S&T) and/or Future Naval Capabilities (FNC) programs.

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