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Principal Systems Engineer Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Principal Systems Engineer

Melbourne, FL · On-site

$98K - $147K/yr

Northrop Grumman Aeronautics Systems has an opening for a Principal Systems Engineer to join our team of qualified, diverse individuals within our Systems Engineering organization. This role is ...

Senior Principal Systems Engineer Location: Largo, FL; Washington, DC; Frederick, MD; Burnsville, MN Job ID:114761 The Leonardo DRS Naval Electronics business provides leading naval computing ...

Showing results 21-40

Principal Systems Engineer information

See Florida salary details

$15.7K

$111.5K

$167.8K

How much do principal systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal systems engineer in Florida is $111,506.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $89,700.00 and $130,800.00 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 Florida?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Principal Systems Engineer job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,506 per year, or $53.6 per hour.

Principal Systems Engineer

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Melbourne, FL • On-site

$98K - $147K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 368 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

66th of 545 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be available
CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: Yes
CLEARANCE TYPE: Secret
TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescription
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. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.
Please note that this opportunity is contingent on program funding. Start dates are determined after funding confirmation.
Northrop Grumman Aeronautics Systems has an opening for a Principal Systems Engineer to join our team of qualified, diverse individuals within our Systems Engineering organization. This role is located in Melbourne, FL.
In this role you will perform technical planning, system integration, verification and validation, cost and risk, and supportability and effectiveness analyses for total systems. Analyses are performed at all levels of total system product to include concept, design, fabrication, test, installation, operation, maintenance and disposal. You will ensure the logical and systematic conversion of customer or product requirements into total systems solutions that acknowledge technical, schedule, and cost constraints. You will also perform functional analysis, timeline analysis, detail trade studies, requirements allocation and interface definition studies to translate customer requirements into hardware and software specifications. You will be expected to communicate effectively and clearly present technical approaches and findings at technical and program reviews and boards. You will apply extensive technical expertise in the development of technical solutions to complex problems which require the regular use of ingenuity and creativity.
Basic Qualifications:
• Bachelor of science degree in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) discipline with 5 years of engineering or related experience, OR a Master of science degree in STEM discipline with 3 years of engineering or related experience.
• Your ability to transfer and maintain the final adjudicated government Secret clearance (DoD must be in-scope or enrolled in Continuous Evaluation) and any program access(es) required for the position within a reasonable period of time, as determined by the Company.
• Experience in Model Based Systems Engineering and Architecture Development
Preferred Qualifications:
• Experience with Agile workflows
• Knowledge of configuration management of model-based architecture baselines
• Demonstrated communication and technical writing skills.
• Proven ability to brief technical presentations to both internal and external stakeholders
#AS-FA3
Primary Level Salary Range: $98,400.00 - $147,600.00
The 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