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Principal Systems Engineer Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

The Principal Systems Engineer will lead the end-to-end systems engineering execution for large, complex new product introduction (NPI) programs focused on pressure sensing technologies. This role is ...

The Principal Systems Engineer will lead the end-to-end systems engineering execution for large, complex new product introduction (NPI) programs focused on pressure sensing technologies. This role is ...

Design, develop, analyze, document and support testing of products, systems or subsystems * Ability to complete a technical project independently and mentor and coach other engineers. Review customer ...

Design, develop, analyze, document and support testing of products, systems or subsystems * Ability to complete a technical project independently and mentor and coach other engineers. Review customer ...

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Principal Systems Engineer information

See Ohio salary details

$20K

$141.9K

$213.4K

How much do principal systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal systems engineer in Ohio is $141,857.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $114,100.00 and $166,400.00 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 job categories do people searching Principal Systems Engineer jobs in Ohio look for? The top searched job categories for Principal Systems Engineer jobs in Ohio are:
What cities in Ohio are hiring for Principal Systems Engineer jobs? Cities in Ohio with the most Principal Systems Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Principal Systems Engineer jobs in OH? For Principal Systems Engineer jobs in OH, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Principal Systems Engineer job openings in Ohio as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 75% In-person, and 25% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $141,857 per year, or $68.2 per hour.

Principal Systems Engineer

Odyssey Systems Consulting Group, Ltd.

Dayton, OH โ€ข On-site

$120 - $150/hr

Other

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

Position Summary

Odyssey is recruiting to fill a Principal Systems Engineer position supporting the ISR Sensors Division (AFLCMC/WIN), at Wright Patterson AFB, OH. WIN is part of the ISR/SOF Directorate (AFLCMC/WI), who is responsible for equipping our warfighters to win the fight. The Directorate executes a $22 billion acquisition portfolio developing, producing, testing, modifying, fielding, and supporting Air Force ISR and SOF platforms, and related sub-systems.

Responsibilities

Duties include, but not limited to:

  • Possess expert knowledge, experience, and recognized ability to be considered an industry leader in GEOINT Systems Engineer Support of Special Projects. Must work independently and be able to apply procedures
  • Provide engineering support to the Special Projects Branch in the ISR & SOF Directorate in the development, demonstration, and transition of advanced ISR technologies into Air Force systems.
  • Apply knowledge and experience in work related to DoD Research, Development, Test and Evaluation, logistics, and systems acquisition programs.
  • Provide technical expertise on novel radar phenomenology test/development for space-based systems, long-range ground-based atmospheric radar systems, and wideband data link and sensor development in support of the DoD ISR platforms.
  • Apply knowledge and skills in civil engineering technical support as a draftsman/surveyor, experimental research and test, instruction in mathematical sciences, logistical support of weapons platforms, metrics development and reporting, staff support positions, and program management.
  • Apply Department of Defense (DoD) principles (DoD 5000.01, 5000.02) and United States Air Force (USAF), Headquarters Air Force Materiel Command (HQ AFMC), Air Force Life Cycle Management Center (AFLCMC) policies to engineering tasks, including data gathering, analysis, and acquisition expertise.
  • Provide Geospatial Intelligence (GEOINT) engineering to support technology development, testing, and integration into intelligence architectures.
  • Support sensor and exploitation system enhancements for Test and Evaluation (T&E), including Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR), High Altitude Long Range GEOINT Capabilities (HALRGC), Laser Radar/Light Detection and Ranging (LADAR/LIDAR), and Electro-Optical/Infrared (EO/IR) designs, using GEOINT, DoD acquisition, and systems engineering expertise.
  • Translate DoD user needs into system requirements for design, development, and testing, conducting analyses, trade studies, and reviewing system baselines (architecture, controls, power, mechanical systems).
  • Assist with drafting Statements of Objectives (SOOs), Statements of Work (SOWs), program plans, Systems Engineering Plan (SEP), Life Cycle Sustainment Plan (LCSP), and reviewing test plans.
  • Review proposals and specifications (system, equipment, Interface Control Documents [ICDs]) for cost, feasibility, and compatibility.
  • Support trade-off studies (cost, performance, reliability, risk) and systems analyses (design, state-of-the-art). Evaluate Integrated Master Plan (IMP), Integrated Master Schedule (IMS), cost estimates, and test plans, participating in system/subsystem testing.
  • Provide integration support, developing plans, defining interface requirements, resolving issues, reviewing ICDs, and joining Interface Control Working Group (ICWG) activities.
  • Support system-of-systems engineering, sensor integration on air vehicles (avionics, data links, power), and architectures to address GEOINT system needs and deficiencies.
  • Provide engineering for GEOINT requirements, analysis, integration, and testing.
Qualifications

Citizenship: Must be a US citizen

Minimum Required Qualifications

Clearance: Top Secret

Education and Years of Experience:

  • Masterโ€™s or Doctorate Degree in a related field and at least 20 years of experience in the respective technical / professional discipline being performed, 12 years of which must be in the DoD.
  • OR bachelorโ€™s degree in a related field and 25 years of experience in the respective technical/professional discipline being performed, 15 years of which must be in the DoD.
  • OR, 30 years of directly related experience, 20 years of which must be in the DoD.

Technical Skills:

  • Expertise in GEOINT, or radars, or satellites, or signal processing, or a similar field
  • Background as a software/systems/embedded engineer
  • Object-oriented programming (C++, Python, Java, C#)
  • Experience working with hardware systems
Additional Information

Location: Wright Patterson AFB, Ohio

Travel: 10%

Onsite

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

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