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Principal Systems Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

V2X

Principal Systems Engineer

Indianapolis, IN

V2X is seeking a Principal Systems Engineer to join our Engineering team in Indianapolis, IN supporting development and integration of advanced systems including situational awareness displays ...

V2X

Principal Systems Engineer

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

V2X is seeking a Principal Systems Engineer to join our Engineering team in Indianapolis, IN supporting development and integration of advanced systems including situational awareness displays ...

Vectrus, Inc

Principal Systems Engineer

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$140 - $180/hr

V2X is seeking a Principal Systems Engineer to join our Engineering team in Indianapolis, IN supporting development and integration of advanced systems including situational awareness displays ...

V2X

Principal Systems Engineer

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

V2X is seeking a Principal Systems Engineer to join our Engineering team in Indianapolis, IN supporting development and integration of advanced systems including situational awareness displays ...

V2X

Principal Systems Engineer

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

V2X is seeking a Principal Systems Engineer to join our Engineering team in Indianapolis, IN supporting development and integration of advanced systems including situational awareness displays ...

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Northrop Grumman Aeronautics Systems is seeking a Principal Systems Engineer/Sr. Principal Systems Engineer to join our team of qualified, diverse individuals within our Systems Engineering ...

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Principal Systems Engineer information

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$21K

$149.2K

$224.5K

How much do principal systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal systems 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a principal systems engineer?

To thrive as a Principal Systems Engineer, you need deep expertise in systems architecture, integration, and engineering principles, typically backed by a degree in engineering or computer science. Familiarity with systems modeling tools (such as SysML), requirements management platforms, and relevant certifications like INCOSE CSEP are highly valued. Outstanding problem-solving, leadership, and communication skills distinguish top performers in this role. These skills are crucial for designing complex systems, guiding multidisciplinary teams, and delivering solutions that meet technical and business objectives.

How does a principal systems engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during project development?

A Principal Systems Engineer plays a central role in coordinating between hardware, software, and project management teams to ensure system integration and project alignment. They often facilitate technical discussions, clarify requirements, and help resolve complex engineering challenges by leveraging their expertise. Regularly, they lead design reviews, mentor junior engineers, and act as the technical liaison between stakeholders to ensure project milestones are met. This collaborative approach helps maintain project quality and fosters innovation within the team.

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

AspectPrincipal Systems EngineerSystems Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Engineering, often with certifications like PMP or INCOSEBachelor's degree in Engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentLead complex projects, oversee system integration, collaborate with cross-functional teamsSupport system development, perform testing, assist in system implementation
Employer & Industry UsageDefense, aerospace, large tech firms, government agenciesTechnology companies, manufacturing, defense contractors
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding senior technical roles, career progressionEntry to mid-level roles, job responsibilities

The Principal Systems Engineer typically holds a senior technical leadership role, overseeing complex projects and guiding teams, while the Systems Engineer focuses on supporting system development and implementation. Both roles require engineering credentials, but the Principal position involves more strategic oversight and experience.

What does a principal systems engineer do?

A principal systems engineer designs, develops, and oversees complex engineering systems, ensuring they meet technical requirements and performance standards. They often lead technical teams, coordinate system integration, and utilize tools like modeling software, with a focus on system architecture, reliability, and scalability.
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Principal Systems Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Principal Systems Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $149,214 per year, or $71.7 per hour.

Principal Systems Engineer

ITSC Secure Solutions

Aurora, CO • On-site

$180K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

Description
Primary Location: Buckley Space Force Base (SFB)
Clearance: TS with SCI Eligibility (required)
Employment Type: Full-time, Contract Support
About ITSC
ITSC Secure Solutions is a mission-focused small business committed to delivering superior services and high-quality technical solutions to our government customers. Guided by our core values-Integrity Through Service and Commitment-ITSC places integrity, technical excellence, and customer success at the forefront of everything we do. Our team-oriented culture values expertise, accountability, and continuous improvement while supporting critical national security missions.
Position Overview
ITSC is seeking a Principal Systems Engineer to provide senior-level systems engineering support for Missile Warning (MW) system-level requirements development, hardware and software design, and verification and validation (V&V) activities. This role maintains cognizance over technical activities within FORGE Integrated Product Teams (IPTs) and ensures horizontal integration of best engineering practices across the FORGE enterprise.
The Principal Systems Engineer works closely with government SEIT teams to ensure consistent technical baselines and alignment across development, integration, test, and operational environments.
Impact of the Role
The Principal Systems Engineer directly influences the technical integrity, consistency, and performance of Missile Warning systems. This role ensures engineering activities across FORGE IPTs remain aligned, technically sound, and mission-focused-reducing integration risk and supporting long-term system sustainment and modernization.
Key Responsibilities
  • Provide senior level systems engineering support for MW system level requirements development

  • Support hardware and software design, integration, and V&V activities

  • Maintain technical oversight of activities across FORGE IPTs

  • Ensure horizontal integration of engineering best practices across the FORGE enterprise

  • Coordinate closely with government SEIT teams to maintain consistent technical baselines

  • Support technical alignment across development, test, integration, and operational environments

  • Participate in technical reviews, engineering assessments, and decision forums as required

Requirements
Required Knowledge & Technical Expertise
  • Enterprise systems engineering principles

  • Missile Warning system architectures and interfaces

  • Requirements development and traceability

  • Hardware and software integration support

  • System Verification & Validation (V&V)

  • FORGE enterprise environments

  • IPT coordination and cross team technical integration

  • Government SEIT processes and technical baseline management

Qualifications
  • Minimum of 20 years of relevant experience supporting DoD, Missile Warning, or space system engineering

  • Bachelor's degree in engineering, science, or a related technical discipline

  • Demonstrated experience serving in a senior or principal systems engineering role

  • Proven ability to provide enterprise level technical oversight and guidance

  • Experience coordinating with government engineering organizations

  • Active TS/SCI clearance

Apply