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Principal Systems Engineer Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Life Cycle Engineering seeks a Principal Systems Engineer. In this role, you will directly support the ESSM Program Integrated Logistics Support (ILS) Lead and be responsible for executing tasks in ...

Life Cycle Engineering seeks a Principal Systems Engineer. In this role, you will directly support the ESSM Program Integrated Logistics Support (ILS) Lead and be responsible for executing tasks in ...

Systems Engineering and Test Capabilities (SE&TC) offers the opportunity to design, develop, and integrate innovative solutions across the full systems engineering lifecycle. Working in a highly ...

Showing results 21-40

Principal Systems Engineer information

See Arizona salary details

$19.6K

$139.1K

$209.2K

How much do principal systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal systems engineer in Arizona is $139,050.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $111,800.00 and $163,100.00 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.

What are popular job titles related to Principal Systems Engineer jobs in Arizona?

For Principal Systems Engineer jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Principal Systems Engineer jobs in Arizona look for?

The top searched job categories for Principal Systems Engineer jobs in Arizona are:

What cities in Arizona are hiring for Principal Systems Engineer jobs?

Cities in Arizona with the most Principal Systems Engineer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Principal Systems Engineer jobs in AZ?

For Principal Systems Engineer jobs in AZ, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Principal Systems Engineer job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $139,050 per year, or $66.9 per hour.

Principal Systems Engineer - Responsible Systems Engineer (RSE)

Raytheon

Tucson, AZ

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago


Raytheon rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 99 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 544 rated manufacturers


Job description

Date Posted:

2026-07-31

Country:

United States of America

Location:

US-AZ-TUCSON-805 ~ 1151 E Hermans Rd ~ BLDG 805

Position Role Type:

Onsite

U.S. Citizen, U.S. Person, or Immigration Status Requirements:

Active and transferable U.S. government issued security clearance is required prior to start date.​ U.S. citizenship is required, as only U.S. citizens are eligible for a security clearance​

Security Clearance Type:

Top Secret - Current

Security Clearance Status:

Active and existing security clearance required on day 1

At RTX, the world's 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 problems. With our three market leading businesses, world-class operations and investments in research and development, we offer capabilities and opportunity no one else can. Together, we push the boundaries of known science and find new ways to connect and protect our world. 

Raytheon brings the strength of more than 100 years of experience and renowned engineering expertise to meet the needs of today’s mission and stay ahead of tomorrow’s threat. We deliver solutions that help our nation and allies defend freedoms and deter aggression, creating a safer, more secure world. Join us and help shape the future of aerospace and defense.

The Systems Engineering and Test Center (SETC) organization is currently hiring a Principal Systems Engineer – Responsible Systems Engineer to join our Tucson, AZ team in the Effectors System Engineering Department.  The SETC organization is an exciting and challenging environment where you will have the opportunity to design, develop and partner with multi-disciplines to shape innovative solutions for our customers. Join our organization and experience the Systems V engineering life cycle while interfacing with a variety of engineering disciplines, subject matter experts, chief engineers, chief technologists, the customer, and so many more to ensure we design, integrate, and strengthen our systems to work the first time and every time for our warfighters!

As a Principal Systems Engineer – Responsible Systems Engineer you will lead the effort to update and maintain all system and subsystem level requirements specifications and be the Systems technical lead ensuring all requirements are being assessed during Verification and Qualification testing.  You will engage with the Systems and Hardware teams and Chief Engineer on a variety of program technical tasks. 

This role is fully Onsite in Tucson, AZ.

What You Will Do

  • Lead effort to update and maintain all system and subsystem level requirements specifications

  • SE technical lead for verification and validation efforts, ensuring all requirements are being assessed during Verification and Qualification Testing

  • SE technical lead, working closely with the Systems and Hardware IPTLs and Chief Engineer on a variety of program technical tasks.

  • Lead Systems Verification Reviews with the Chief Engineer, Lead Systems Engineer, and Integrated Product Team Leadership.

  • Become the knowledgeable and ‘go-to’ Systems Engineer for the program.

  • Help to onboard new team members, mentor, and guide them using core Systems Engineering skills.

Qualifications You Must Have

  • Typically requires a Bachelor’s in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM) and a minimum of eight (8) years of prior relevant experience

  • Experience with at least one of the following: systems software, systems firmware, systems hardware, systems requirements, systems integration, and/or systems test.

  • Experience in test planning, verification of system requirements and/or system qualification

  • Active and transferable Top Secret Security Clearance is required prior to start date.

Qualifications We Prefer

  • Advanced degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Math or Physics

  • Experience in the Defense Industry and specifically with military systems; tactics, techniques, and procedures, as well as Department of Defense customer infrastructure experience.

  • Experience using Agile framework development methods / processes

  • Customer focus and collaboration skills

  • Experience with performance analysis

  • Experience with DOORS, Cameo and/or cPDM

  • Understanding of the Systems Engineering Product Development Cycle

  • Experience with Earned Value Management System (EVMS) or Cost Account Management (CAM) Certification

What We Offer

  • Our values drive our actions, behaviors, and performance with a vision for a safer, more connected world. At RTX we value: Safety, Trust, Respect, Accountability, Collaboration, and Innovation.

  • Relocation Eligible – Relocation assistance available for this position

Learn More & Apply Now!

  • Please consider the following role type definition as you apply for this role.

  • Onsite: Employees who are working in Onsite roles will work primarily onsite. This includes all production and maintenance employees, as they are essential to the development of our products. https://careers.rtx.com/global/en/raytheon-tucson,-az-location

As part of our commitment to maintaining a secure hiring process, candidates may be asked to attend select steps of the interview process in-person at one of our office locations, regardless of whether the role is designated as on-site, hybrid or remote.

The salary range for this role is 107,500 USD - 204,500 USD. The salary range provided is a good faith estimate representative of all experience levels. RTX considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role, function and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, location, education/training, and key skills. Hired applicants may be eligible for benefits, including but not limited to, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, flexible work schedules, employee assistance program, Employee Scholar Program, parental leave, paid time off, and holidays. Specific benefits are dependent upon the specific business unit as well as whether or not the position is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement. Hired applicants may be eligible for annual short-term and/or long-term incentive compensation programs depending on the level of the position and whether or not it is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement. Payments under these annual programs are not guaranteed and are dependent upon a variety of factors including, but not limited to, individual performance, business unit performance, and/or the company’s performance. This role is a U.S.-based role. If the successful candidate resides in a U.S. territory, the appropriate pay structure and benefits will apply. RTX anticipates the application window closing approximately 40 days from the date the notice was posted. However, factors such as candidate flow and business necessity may require RTX to shorten or extend the application window.

RTX is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability or veteran status, or any other applicable state or federal protected class. RTX provides affirmative action in employment for qualified Individuals with a Disability and Protected Veterans in compliance with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act.

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