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Principal Systems Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

UNAVAILABLE

Principal BMS Engineer

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$150 - $190/hr

Overview Navitas Systems is seeking a Principal Battery Management System (BMS) Engineer to provide technical leadership, architectural ownership, and long-term stewardship of advanced BMS solutions ...

New

Garrett Motion

HVAC System Engineer

Plymouth, MI

We have an exciting new opening for a Systems Engineer . You'll be given the opportunity to develop ... As an individual contributor in the E-Cooling business unit, and reporting to the Principal System ...

Garrett Motion

HVAC System Engineer

Plymouth, MI · On-site

We have an exciting new opening for a Systems Engineer . You'll be given the opportunity to develop ... As an individual contributor in the E-Cooling business unit, and reporting to the Principal System ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsPrincipal Systems Engineer JobsPrincipal Systems Engineer Jobs in Michigan

Principal Systems Engineer information

See Michigan salary details

$18.3K

$130.1K

$195.7K

How much do principal systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal systems engineer in Michigan is $130,054.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $104,600.00 and $152,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 does a principal systems engineer do?

A principal systems engineer designs, develops, and integrates complex systems, often leading technical teams and projects. They analyze requirements, develop solutions, and ensure system performance and reliability, typically using tools like modeling software and adhering to industry standards. This role requires strong technical expertise, problem-solving skills, and often involves mentoring junior engineers.

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 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.
What are popular job titles related to Principal Systems Engineer jobs in Michigan? For Principal Systems Engineer jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Principal Systems Engineer jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Principal Systems Engineer jobs in Michigan are:
What are popular job titles related to Principal Systems Engineer jobs in MI? For Principal Systems Engineer jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Principal Systems Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Principal Systems Engineer job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,054 per year, or $62.5 per hour.

Principal Computer Hardware Engineer

General Dynamics Land Systems US

Sterling Heights, MI

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

About GDLS:
General Dynamics Land Systems builds the combat vehicles and integrated technologies that give soldiers a decisive advantage. We design, engineer and sustain advanced tracked and wheeled systems paired with modern electronic architecture, AI-enabled capabilities and autonomy-ready technology. From Abrams to LAV, Stryker to AJAX, robotic platforms to software solutions and beyond, our portfolio delivers proven performance and future-ready modernization for customers around the world. Join the people who design, build and advance the systems that protect those who protect us. Our teams see beyond the horizon, solving problems before they become challenges.
Bring your talent. Bring your purpose. 
Let’s shape the future of General Dynamics Land Systems together.
 
Responsibilities to Anticipate/Expect: 
This position is for the US Principal Electronics and Computer Hardware Engineer within Design and Development Engineering.  Duties of the role include:
  • Provide senior technical Principal Engineer leadership within the Electronic Hardware Department of approximately 100 engineers conducting design, development and test activities for several GDLS Make Items and working with several Suppliers
  • Support the overall development of a common Electronic Architecture within GDLS by focusing on detailed electronic hardware design approaches across the full suite of vehicle electronic hardware, including general purpose and AI processors, memory, solid state storage, flat panel displays, graphics/video transport, and others
  • Help technically manage the specific implementation of common electronic hardware design solutions for all GDLS platforms including design projects under IR&D as well as hardware developed under program funding in key core competency areas
  • Evaluate and trade the detailed design impacts, feasibility, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness of hardware design approaches
  • Lead modernization and commonality of the electronic hardware design process, design tools, and common electronic parts leveraging knowledge of both military and commercial best practices to help accelerate future design and development
  • Support design engineer competency development by helping to mentor a geographically dispersed team, and developing knowledge management assets to ensure seamless knowledge transfer to new engineers
  • technical support to 3rd party teaming arrangements to support new advanced product development activities
  • coordination with program-specific lead system architects to leverage electronic hardware portfolio into global vehicle platforms
  • formal presentations to functional and program leadership.
Position Requirements: 
  • Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering.  Equivalent degrees considered.  Advanced degree is a plus.
  • 20+ years of relevant electronics and computer design experience.
  • Be a self-starter and highly motivated. Experience with working on cross functional projects and working in a lab environment is required.
  • Be experienced in working with teams and effective in communicating across many disciplines and functional organizations.
  • Be able to understand customer needs, formulate subsystem and component requirements, and meet expectations.
  • Experience with military vehicles, other heavy vehicle platforms or industrial applications of electronics is desired.
  • Experience with leading a team of engineers in developing/concepting. analyzing, and building electronic subsystems and components
  • Experience working with suppliers and our supplier quality organization, developing and auditing test requirements is desired
  • Must have the ability to climb into military vehicles.
  • Strong technical writing and presentation skills are desired.
  • Ability to travel and work overtime when required.
What We Offer:
  • We offer a Total Rewards package that is Impactful and built for you
  • Healthcare including medical, dental, vision, HSA and Flex Spending
  • Competitive base pay and incentive pay that rewards individual and team performance, and comprehensive benefits
  • 401k match up to (6%)
  • Educational assistance
  • 9-80 work schedule (This position’s standard work schedule is a 9/80. The 9/80 schedule allows employees who work a nine-hour day Monday through Thursday to take every other Friday off)
  • On-going learning opportunities rewarding work environment
  • Modern office, onsite cafeteria including Starbucks Cafe, remodeled fitness center, and outdoor fitness track

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