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Model Systems Engineering Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Systems Engineer

Carol Stream, IL

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... engineering V-model as the standard development philosophy, ensuring clear traceability from ... Systems Engineering Process Maturity Build, standardize, and continuously mature systems ...

Systems Engineer

Carol Stream, IL · On-site

$107K - $133K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... engineering V-model as the standard development philosophy, ensuring clear traceability from ... Systems Engineering Process Maturity Build, standardize, and continuously mature systems ...

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Showing results 1-20

Model Systems Engineering information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$55.1K

$131.1K

$172K

How much do model systems engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for model systems engineering in Chicago, IL is $131,050.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $101,000.00 and $161,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a model systems engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Model Systems Engineer, you need a strong background in systems engineering principles, mathematical modeling, and often a relevant degree in engineering or computer science. Familiarity with modeling tools like MATLAB/Simulink, SysML, and simulation software, as well as knowledge of systems engineering standards such as INCOSE certification, is typically required. Critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills set standout professionals apart in this field. These competencies ensure accurate system representations, effective collaboration, and successful project outcomes in complex engineering environments.

What is the difference between Model Systems Engineering vs Systems Engineer?

AspectModel Systems EngineeringSystems Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in engineering, certifications in systems modeling (e.g., INCOSE)Bachelor's or higher in engineering or related field, certifications vary
Work EnvironmentDesign and develop system models, simulations, and architectureDesign, analyze, and optimize complex systems in various industries
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily in aerospace, defense, and systems integration firmsWidely across technology, manufacturing, aerospace, and defense sectors

Model Systems Engineering focuses on creating detailed system models and simulations to analyze system behavior, while Systems Engineers oversee the entire system lifecycle, ensuring integration and functionality. Both roles require similar credentials but differ in scope and daily tasks.

How does a model systems engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during a project's lifecycle?

As a Model Systems Engineer, you will frequently work alongside software developers, hardware engineers, project managers, and quality assurance specialists to ensure that system models accurately reflect project requirements and constraints. Collaboration often involves participating in design reviews, integrating feedback, and updating system models to accommodate changes in project scope. Effective communication and the ability to translate technical details between different teams are crucial, as your models serve as the foundation for development and decision-making throughout the project. This collaborative environment fosters both technical and interpersonal growth, allowing you to develop a holistic understanding of complex systems.

What is model systems engineering?

Model Systems Engineering is an interdisciplinary approach that uses models to support the design, analysis, and management of complex engineering systems. It involves creating abstract representations (models) of systems to better understand their behavior, requirements, and interactions throughout the system's lifecycle. This approach helps engineers identify potential problems early, optimize system performance, and ensure that the final product meets its intended goals. Model Systems Engineering is widely used in industries such as aerospace, automotive, defense, and software engineering.

What are popular job titles related to Model Systems Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Model Systems Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Model Systems Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Model Systems Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Model Systems Engineering jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Model Systems Engineering job openings:

Infographic showing various Model Systems Engineering job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $131,050 per year, or $63 per hour.

Systems Engineering Manager 2 (Modeling & Simulation)

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Rolling Meadows, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 363 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

88th of 540 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be availableCLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: YesCLEARANCE TYPE: SecretTRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescriptionAt Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.

Northrop Grumman Mission Systems is a trusted provider of mission-enabling solutions for global security. Our Engineering and Sciences (E&S) organization pushes the boundaries of innovation, redefines engineering capabilities, and drives advances in various sciences. Our team is chartered with providing the skills, innovative technologies to develop, design, produce and sustain optimized product lines across the sector while providing a decisive advantage to the warfighter. Come be a part of our mission!

We are looking for you to join our team as a Systems Engineering Manager 2 to lead the Modeling & Simulation (ModSim) team based out of Rolling Meadows, IL. We currently have a System Engineering Manager opening supporting our Mission Survivability Systems business unit.

This is a dual-role manager position, balancing the overall Functional oversight and management of a Systems Engineering group of 10-15 engineers, against performance of productive work on a program or several programs. The candidate will spend ~20% of their time on support of the organization (functional duties) and ~80% of their time on technical program work.

The selected candidate(s) will be part of the Systems Engineering Integration & Test (SEIT) team within our Mission Survivability Systems organization.

The ModSim Manager role will be responsible for a team that designs and tests custom algorithm solutions as well as developing and validating complex models and simulations. Successful candidates will bring a systems engineering approach to understanding physics phenomenology and creating our in-house algorithms and performance models. You will collaborate with a highly skilled team of engineers, physicists, and experts to implement those algorithms into a system or product. The candidate should have proficiency in software languages such as MATLAB and Python and familiarity with software development in C/C++.

Responsibilities for the position include:

Oversee a team of engineers working multiple initiatives including follow-on contracts, new business growth opportunities, internal research and development, and capital projects.

Guide the team in support and adherence to standard SEIT processes and the oversight of cost, schedule, and technical quality for SEIT execution on supported programs, including functional reviews for major milestone events (SRR, PDR, CDR, TRR, etc.) and proposals as applicable.

Work on staffing and workload forecast; employee inclusion, engagement, mentoring and career development; employee training and identification, and training of skills required to execute on programs; management and execution of employee performance review processes; and leadership and execution for a multitude of functional management processes.

Collaborate with our talent acquisition team to meet staffing commitments.

Support initiatives such as Model Based System Engineering (MBSE), Product Line Architecture (PLA), and Agile implementation that provide a competitive advantage for our customers.

#MSRMTA

This role will be full-time and on-site in our Mission Survivability Systems group in Rolling Meadows, IL.

Basic Qualifications for Systems Engineering Manager 2:

Bachelor of Science degree in an engineering / technical discipline with a minimum of 8 years' experience or a Master of Science degree in an engineering / technical discipline with a minimum of 6 years' experience.

Proven leadership skills with the ability to work effectively in a team environment.

High proficiency in technical problem solving, to include decomposition, root cause analysis, solution development, implementation and monitoring.

This position requires the applicant to be a U.S. citizen.

Must have the ability to obtain a Secret clearance prior to start date.

Preferred Qualifications:

Master's degree in a relevant technical or management specialty.

Active Secret / Top Secret Clearance.

Ability to obtain Special Access Program (SAP) clearances.

Background and understanding in various tools and techniques associated with cost / schedule management (especially Earned Value Management).

Management experience leading teams including Systems Engineering, Integration, and Test.

Experience working in a systems engineering, integration, and test environment.

Experience with electronic warfare or related defense systems.

Experience with IR (infrared) systems.

Experience in all aspects of the engineering process from proposal / requirements analysis through verification testing.

Demonstrated excellence in written and oral communication skills along with proven success working in an integrated product team environment.

Proficiency in MS Project, MS Office, MATLAB, Simulink, Cameo, Model Based System Engineering (MBSE), and Agile techniques.

Primary Level Salary Range: $153,800.00 - $230,800.00The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939