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

MX1

Director Systems Engineering

Chicago, IL · On-site

Director, Systems Engineering, Commercial Aviation Engineering ROLE DESCRIPTION SUMMARY SES is ... Manage the architecture, modeling, and analysis of the entire aviation connectivity system-from ...

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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 Jul 26, 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:
Model Systems Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Model Systems Engineering job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $131,050 per year, or $63 per hour.

Director Systems Engineering

MX1

Chicago, IL • On-site

Other

Posted 17 days ago

Job description


Director, Systems Engineering, Commercial Aviation Engineering

ROLE DESCRIPTION SUMMARY

SES is seeking a dynamic Director of Systems Engineering to lead the architecture, modeling, and analysis of our end-to-end aviation connectivity system-from aircraft antenna and modem through satellite payload to terrestrial infrastructure. This role will drive system design excellence and ensure seamless integration across Aircraft, RAN, Software, and Operations teams to deliver exceptional connectivity experiences for our aviation customers.

Reporting to the Vice President of Systems and Performance Engineering, Aviation Connectivity Solutions, you will lead a global team responsible for architecting and validating complex end-to-end systems.

Your mission is to bring system-level thinking, operational awareness, and cross-functional collaboration together to deliver world-class, resilient, and intelligent connectivity to commercial airlines worldwide.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES / KEY RESULT AREAS

  • Leadership & Strategy: Lead a high-performing systems engineering organization across systems architecture and design. Develop the team's technical roadmap and align it with broader engineering and product strategies. 
  • System Design & Analysis: Manage the architecture, modeling, and analysis of the entire aviation connectivity system-from antenna and modem to satellite payload and terrestrial infrastructure. Drive end-to-end design excellence, scalability, and interoperability.
  • Technical Integration: Serve as the central coordination point across Aircraft Engineering, RAN Engineering, Software Engineering, and Operations to ensure system compatibility, performance, and readiness.
  • Customer Experience: Act as a technical advocate for service reliability and performance across the customer lifecycle. Support sales, airline partners, and support teams with deep system insights and issue resolution.
  • Support & Readiness: Lead your team in providing Level 4 support for escalated system issues.
  • Cross-Functional Alignment: Collaborate with Product, Program Management, Commercial, and Global Network Operations to drive shared goals and maintain a holistic understanding of customer needs and network performance.

COMPETENCIES

  • Proven ability to understand complex systems comprised of communication, computing, and internet technologies.
  • Proven ability to lead teams responsible for service analytics and high-availability network platforms
  • Excellent interpersonal, cross-functional collaboration, and executive communication skills
  • Strong track record of innovation and continuous improvement in a dynamic technical environment

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Systems Engineering, Aerospace, Electrical Engineering, or related technical field
  • 10+ years of experience in end-to-end systems engineering, with 5+ years leading high-impact technical teams
  • Strong expertise in satellite communications, RF systems, and aircraft connectivity
  • Experience managing modeling and proof-of-concept tools and activities
  • Proven ability to lead teams responsible for system architecture
  • Excellent interpersonal, cross-functional collaboration, and executive communication skills

OTHER KEY REQUIREMENTS / COMMENTS

  • Experience in commercial aviation connectivity or satellite broadband delivery
  • Familiarity with network infrastructures including routers, gateways, SD-WANs, deep packet inspection systems, load balancers, and firewalls
  • Experience with front end process flow; understanding of process inputs from Product Management and needed outputs to Development and Test

SES and its Affiliated Companies are committed to providing fair and equal employment opportunities to all. We are an Equal Opportunity employer and will consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, pregnancy, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, genetic information, protected veteran status, disability, or any other basis protected by local, state, or federal law.
For more information on SES, click here.

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