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Lead Systems Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lead Systems Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

$149K - $254K/yr

Lead Systems Engineer BAE Systems is looking for a dynamic, self-motivated Lead Systems Engineer with current Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) systems engineering and engineering management ...

Lead Systems Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$140K - $175K/yr

Lead Systems Engineer Department: Engineering Reports To: Program Manager and Engineering Director FLSA Status: Exempt / Full-time Salary Range: $140,000 - $175,000 Annually ROLE We are seeking a ...

Lead Systems Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$140K - $175K/yr

Lead Systems Engineer Department: Engineering Reports To: Program Manager and Engineering Director FLSA Status: Exempt / Full-time Salary Range: $140,000 - $175,000 Annually ROLE We are seeking a ...

Lead Systems Engineer

Melbourne, FL · On-site

$140K - $175K/yr

Lead Systems Engineer Department: Engineering Reports To: Program Manager and Engineering Director FLSA Status: Exempt / Full-time Salary Range: $140,000 - $175,000 Annually ROLE We are seeking a ...

Lead, Systems Engineering - Military Commercial Derivative Aircraft (MCDA) Modification Design, Integration, & Certification Job Code: 37621 Job Location: Waco, Texas (on site) Schedule: 9/80; Every ...

Lead Systems Engineer Job Locations US-AL-HUNTSVILLE ID 2026-5072 Category Engineering & Science Position Type Regular Full-Time Opportunity PeopleTec is currently seeking a Lead Systems Engineer to ...

Lead Systems Engineer

Melbourne, FL · On-site

$125K - $175K/yr

Lead Systems Engineer - Job Title: Lead Systems Engineer (Req 2) Department: Engineering Reports To: Program Manager and Engineering Director FLSA Status: Exempt / Full-time Salary Range: $125,000 ...

Lead Systems Engineer

Melbourne, FL · On-site

$125K - $175K/yr

Lead Systems Engineer - Job Title: Lead Systems Engineer (Req 2) Department: Engineering Reports To: Program Manager and Engineering Director FLSA Status: Exempt / Full-time Salary Range: $125,000 ...

Lead Systems Engineer

Melbourne, FL · On-site

$125K - $175K/yr

Lead Systems Engineer - Job Title: Lead Systems Engineer (Req 2) Department: Engineering Reports To: Program Manager and Engineering Director FLSA Status: Exempt / Full-time Salary Range: $125,000 ...

Lead Systems Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$155K - $315K/yr

The Lead Systems Engineer (LSE) has ownership and responsibility over the requirements, verification, and validation (RV&V) efforts. The LSE is responsible for execution of day-to-day SE process ...

Lead Systems Engineer Location: Suitland, MD (Hybrid) Terms: Full-time Clearance/Work Authorization: US Citizenship with the ability to obtain and maintain a Public Trust is required Travel: 0-20 ...

Lead Systems Engineer

$120K - $144K/yr

Lead Systems Engineer Position Location: Remote - work virtually from anywhere in the United States JOB SUMMARY The Lead Systems Engineer provides leadership, expertise, and delegates work for design ...

Description Lead Systems Engineer At B&A, we foster and embrace a distinct set of values that we live by and instill in all aspects of our organization: dedication, commitment, partnership, trust ...

Lead Systems Engineer Company: The Boeing Company The Boeing Defense, Space & Security (BDS) is seeking motivated and self-starting Lead Systems Engineer for a position based in Huntington Beach, CA

Lead Systems Engineer Company: The Boeing Company The Boeing Defense, Space & Security (BDS) is seeking motivated and self-starting Lead Systems Engineer for a position based in Huntington Beach, CA

Lead Systems Engineer At B&A, we foster and embrace a distinct set of values that we live by and instill in all aspects of our organization: dedication, commitment, partnership, trust, and ...

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Lead Systems Engineer information

See salary details

$91K

$199.3K

$253K

How much do lead systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Lead Systems Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lead Systems Engineer, you need advanced knowledge in systems architecture, network administration, and troubleshooting, usually backed by a degree in computer science or engineering. Familiarity with tools like VMware, Linux/Windows operating systems, cloud platforms (AWS, Azure), and certifications such as CISSP or CompTIA are often required. Strong leadership, project management, and communication skills enable effective team coordination and successful project delivery. These skills are vital for designing robust systems, ensuring reliability, and driving innovation within technical teams.

How does a Lead Systems Engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during large-scale projects?

A Lead Systems Engineer plays a central role in coordinating with cross-functional teams such as software developers, network specialists, project managers, and QA engineers. They facilitate clear communication between technical and non-technical stakeholders, ensuring requirements are well-understood and that implementation stays on track. Lead Systems Engineers often organize and lead design reviews, troubleshoot integration challenges, and mediate technical decisions to align with overall business goals. This collaborative approach is essential for delivering complex system solutions efficiently and effectively.

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

AspectLead Systems EngineerSystems Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or higher in Engineering, certifications like INCOSE, PMP often preferredBachelor's degree in Engineering or related field, certifications optional
Work EnvironmentLeading projects, coordinating teams, overseeing system design and integrationSupporting system development, testing, and implementation tasks
Employer & IndustryTechnology, aerospace, defense, manufacturing companiesSimilar industries, often within larger engineering teams
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding leadership roles, project management, advanced responsibilitiesEntry to mid-level system design and support roles

The main difference between a Lead Systems Engineer and a Systems Engineer lies in their responsibilities and leadership scope. Lead Systems Engineers oversee project coordination, team management, and system integration, often requiring additional certifications and experience. Systems Engineers focus on supporting system development and testing. Both roles are vital in engineering projects, but the Lead role emphasizes leadership and strategic oversight.

What does a Lead Systems Engineer do?

A Lead Systems Engineer oversees the design, integration, and management of complex systems within an organization. They coordinate teams, ensure system reliability and security, and often serve as the primary technical point of contact for projects. Their responsibilities include evaluating system requirements, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring that all components work harmoniously. Lead Systems Engineers also mentor junior staff and collaborate with other departments to ensure project success.

What engineers make $500,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, systems engineering, or data engineering can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially with experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High compensation often includes bonuses, stock options, or profit sharing, particularly in technology companies or executive positions.
More about Lead Systems Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Lead Systems Engineer jobs? Cities with the most 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:
Who are the top companies hiring for Lead Systems Engineer jobs? The top employers for Lead Systems Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Lead Systems Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Lead Systems Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Lead Systems Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $199,327 per year, or $95.8 per hour.
Lead Systems Engineer

Lead Systems Engineer

BAE Systems USA

Washington, DC • On-site

$149K - $254K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


BAE Systems rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 143 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

5th of 46 rated military and defense


Job description

Lead Systems Engineer

BAE Systems is looking for a dynamic, self-motivated Lead Systems Engineer with current Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) systems engineering and engineering management experience to lead our Team that provides the full range of technical engineering support services necessary for cradle-to-grave engineering support and management for NAVSEA Program Executive Office (PEO) for Integrated Warfare Systems (IWS) Combat Management Systems (CMS).

Essential Duties, Responsibilities and Experience:

  • Expert communication and briefing skills
  • Experience related to the identification, analysis and resolution of complex systems engineering issues involving Navy weapons and combat systems.
  • Experience composing technical documents including training materials, installation guides, configuration management concepts, proposals and reports in accordance with technical documentation guidelines and standards.
  • Expertise in strategic planning, coordination, logistics and vast familiarity with senior and flag level support, including new program initiatives.
  • Knowledgeable on DoD/DON policies and procedures relating to systems engineering process, software development and software management, verification and validation, test and evaluation and Navy combat systems.
  • Expertise as Systems Engineering Lead for various functions as it relates to combat system wholeness.
  • Expertise in Program Management, Systems Engineering, Modeling and Simulation, Joint Integrated Air and Missile Defense, U.S. Navy Combat Systems and Naval Operations.
  • Coordinate with cross-functional engineering teams to develop and execute project plans.
  • Review policies, procedures, and performance reports to maintain regulatory and operational standards.
  • Develop schedules, budgets, specifications, and resource plans for engineering projects.
  • Lead or contribute to other high-visibility PEO IWS programs through specialized technical and business expertise.
  • Exceptional organizational skills, with the ability to prioritize and manage multiple complex engineering hardware and software projects and timelines.
  • Proven team-oriented mindset, collaborating with cross-functional teams to meet program goals and foster a positive working environment.

Required Education, Experience, & Skills Minimum education and years of experience required: A degree in a technical field (this could include, but is not limited to computer science, computer engineering, engineering, engineering management, information science, information systems management, information technology, mathematics, operations research, statistics, technology management and system engineering) And Associate's degree with twenty (20) years of U.S. Navy Combat Systems experience Or Bachelor's degree with fifteen (15) years of relevant engineering experience (this could include, but is not limited to experience in DoD systems architectures, design, development, and test and evaluation, experience in concept definition, requirements definition and initial and detailed system design activities) Or Master's degree with ten (10) years of relevant engineering experience (this could include, but is not limited to experience in DoD systems architectures, design, development, and test and evaluation; experience in concept definition, requirements definition and initial and detailed system design activities). Or PhD with eight (8) years of relevant engineering experience (this could include, but is not limited to experience in DoD systems architectures, design, development, and test and evaluation; experience in concept definition, requirements definition and initial and detailed system design activities). Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, SharePoint) for project tracking, reporting, and data analysis. Preferred Education, Experience, & Skills Licensed Professional Engineer (PE). Project Management Professional (PMP) or DAWIA III in Program Management. Knowledge of DoD Acquisition Regulations. Current or previous experience supporting NAVSEA PEO IWS CMS efforts. Pay Information Full-Time Salary Range: $149603 - $254317 Please note: This range is based on our market pay structures. However, individual salaries are determined by a variety of factors including, but not limited to: business considerations, local market conditions, and internal equity, as well as candidate qualifications, such as skills, education, and experience. Employee Benefits: At BAE Systems, we support our employees in all aspects of their life, including their health and financial well-being. Regular employees scheduled to work 20+ hours per week are offered: health, dental, and vision insurance; health savings accounts; a 401(k) savings plan; disability coverage; and life and accident insurance. We also have an employee assistance program, a legal plan, and other perks including discounts on things like home, auto, and pet insurance. Our leave programs include paid time off, paid holidays, as well as other types of leave, including paid parental, military, bereavement, and any applicable federal and state sick leave. Employees may participate in the company recognition program to receive monetary or non-monetary recognition awards. Other incentives may be available based on position level and/or job specifics.

About BAE Systems Intelligence & Security BAE Systems, Inc. is the U.S. subsidiary of BAE Systems plc, an international defense, aerospace and security company which delivers a full range of products and services for air, land and naval forces, as well as advanced electronics, security, information technology solutions and customer support services. Improving the future and protecting lives is an ambitious mission, but it's what we do at BAE Systems. Working here means using your passion and ingenuity where it counts – defending national security with breakthrough technology, superior products, and intelligence solutions. As you develop the latest technology and defend national security, you will continually hone your skills on a team—making a big impact on a global scale. At BAE Systems, you'll find a rewarding career that truly makes a difference. Intelligence & Security (I&S), based in McLean, Virginia, designs and delivers advanced defense, intelligence, and security solutions that support the important missions of our customers. Our pride and dedication shows in everything we do—from intelligence analysis, cyber operations and IT expertise to systems development, systems integration, and operations and maintenance services. Knowing that our work enables the U.S. military and government to recognize, manage and defeat threats inspires us to push ourselves and our technologies to new levels. This position will be posted for at least 5 calendar days. The posting will remain active until the position is filled, or a qualified pool of candidates is identified.


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