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Lead Systems Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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Lead Systems Engineer information

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$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.
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Lead Systems Engineer jobs near you
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

Science Applications International Corporation

Colorado Springs, CO • On-site

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Job 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.

About Us
SAIC® is a premier mission integrator focused on advancing the power of technology and innovation to serve and protect our world. Our robust portfolio of offerings across the defense, space, intelligence, and civilian markets includes secure high-end solutions in mission IT, enterprise IT, engineering services, and professional services. We integrate emerging technology, rapidly and securely, into mission critical operations that modernize and enable critical national imperatives.
We are approximately 23,000 strong; driven by mission, united by purpose, and inspired by opportunities. SAIC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, SAIC has annual revenues of approximately $7.3 billion. For more information, visit saic.com. For ongoing news, please visit our newsroom.

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