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Principal System Safety Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Raytheon

Principal System Safety Engineer

Woburn, MA · On-site

Principal System Safety Engineer At RTX, the world largest aerospace and defense company, 185,000 great minds are united by purpose and inspired to make a difference solving the world's most complex ...

Raytheon

Principal System Safety Engineer

Woburn, MA · On-site

Principal System Safety Engineer At RTX, the world largest aerospace and defense company, 185,000 great minds are united by purpose and inspired to make a difference solving the world's most complex ...

AVTC Group

Principal System Safety Engineer

Mckinney, TX · On-site +1

$90 - $110/hr

Principal System Safety Engineer • Analysis of engineering hardware and electrical drawings and schematics assessing for fault tolerance, latent hazards, and safety requirements compliance • ...

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$21K

$149.2K

$224.5K

How much do principal system safety engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal system safety engineer in the United States is $149,214.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $120,000.00 and $175,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a principal system safety engineer?

Principal System Safety Engineers are senior professionals responsible for overseeing and managing safety activities in complex engineering projects, ensuring that all systems meet regulatory and organizational safety standards. They lead safety analyses, risk assessments, and the development of safety requirements throughout a system’s lifecycle. Their role often includes collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, mentoring junior engineers, and providing technical guidance on safety processes. These engineers play a critical part in industries like aerospace, defense, automotive, and rail, where the safety of systems is paramount.

How does a principal system safety engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure project safety standards are met?

A Principal System Safety Engineer regularly works alongside design, testing, and operations teams to integrate safety considerations throughout the project lifecycle. This involves leading hazard analyses, facilitating safety reviews, and ensuring that all identified risks are addressed in design and operational procedures. The role also includes mentoring junior engineers and communicating complex safety requirements to both technical and non-technical stakeholders. Effective collaboration ensures that safety standards are met without compromising project timelines or innovation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a principal system safety engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Principal System Safety Engineer, you need deep expertise in system safety engineering principles, risk assessment methodologies, and a relevant engineering degree, often supported by certifications like Certified Safety Professional (CSP) or equivalent. Familiarity with safety analysis tools (such as FMEA, Fault Tree Analysis), safety standards (like MIL-STD-882 or IEC 61508), and requirements management systems is crucial. Strong leadership, analytical thinking, and clear communication skills enable effective collaboration across multidisciplinary teams and with stakeholders. These competencies ensure the identification, management, and mitigation of safety risks throughout complex system lifecycles, safeguarding both end users and organizational objectives.

What is the difference between Principal System Safety Engineer vs System Safety Engineer?

AspectPrincipal System Safety EngineerSystem Safety Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires advanced certifications like CSEP, PE, or equivalentOften requires similar certifications but may be at an entry or mid-level
Work EnvironmentLeads safety programs, manages teams, and influences safety policiesPerforms safety analyses, supports safety assessments, and implements safety measures
Industry UsageUsed across aerospace, defense, and complex engineering sectorsCommonly found in similar industries, supporting safety compliance

The Principal System Safety Engineer typically holds a higher level of responsibility, overseeing safety programs and leading teams, while the System Safety Engineer focuses on executing safety analyses and supporting safety initiatives. Both roles require relevant certifications and are integral to safety in engineering projects, but the principal role involves more strategic leadership.

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Principal System Safety Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Principal System Safety Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $149,214 per year, or $71.7 per hour.

Principal System Safety Engineer

Avenue Technologies Company

Tucson, AZ

Full-time

Re-posted 9 hours ago

Job description

About the Opportunity

Avenue Technologies is seeking a Principal System Safety Engineer to support technical, engineering, and program teams in a hands-on environment.

What You Will Do
  • Develop and support system safety programs aligned with applicable standards such as MIL-STD-882.
  • Perform hazard analyses, safety planning, design analyses, and safety documentation.
  • Coordinate across engineering, program, and customer-facing teams to identify hazards and define effective controls.
  • Support safety reviews, reporting, and approval activities throughout the product lifecycle.
Helpful Skills
  • software development
  • MIL-STD-882
  • requirements
Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree in a STEM or related field is preferred or required based on the role.
  • Relevant experience in the applicable technical discipline.
  • Strong communication, ownership, and problem-solving skills.