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Principal Systems Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

AVTC Group

Principal Systems Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Principle Systems Engineer o Experience applying Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) principles, including system modeling with Cameo, or equivalent tools. o Familiarity with Digital Engineering ...

Blackve

Sr. Principal Systems Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$180 - $240/hr

  • Retirement

... Principal Systems Engineer will be responsible for the technical performance of a spacecraft system and the delivery of data products to users. You will contribute to the company's proprietary ...

AVTC Group

Principal Systems Engineer

Sterling, VA · On-site

****Required Skill Sets: • Typically requires a Bachelor's in Science, Technology, Engineering, or ... Systems installation, integration, and test experience. • An active and transferable TS/SCI CI ...

Peraton

Systems Engineer, Principal

Reston, VA · On-site

They are seeking a Principal Systems Engineer to serve as the primary technical authority responsible for the strategic design, implementation, and operational excellence of their IT Enterprise ...

CareFirst

Principal Systems Engineer (Remote)

Reston, VA · On-site

  • Retirement

Performs engineering studies and analyses, analyze system problems in support of development, develop system implementation solutions. Develops concepts, provides requirements analyses, performs ...

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Showing results 41-60

All JobsPrincipal Systems Engineer JobsPrincipal Systems Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Principal Systems Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$20.8K

$147.9K

$222.6K

How much do principal systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal systems engineer in Virginia is $147,934.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $119,000.00 and $173,500.00 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 Virginia?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Principal Systems Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Principal Systems Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 85% In-person, and 15% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $147,934 per year, or $71.1 per hour.

Principal Systems Engineer - Defense-Ashburn,Virginia

Curtiss-Wright

Lovettsville, VA • On-site

$144K - $190K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago

Curtiss-Wright rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 35 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

98th of 489 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

Principal Systems Engineer - Defense
We are growing and looking for a Principal Systems Engineer to join our team.
As our Principal Systems Engineer you will be an industry-recognized expert in an engineering discipline or specialty area. You will have created or significantly changed technology over at least a decade of time and continue to lead the business' technical growth.
Location: Ashburn, VA / Boston, MA / Nashua, NH
We Take Care of Our People
Paid Time Off I 401K with Employer Match and Profit Sharing I Health and Wellness Benefits I Learning and Development Opportunities I Referral Program I Competitive Pay I Recognition I Employee Stock Purchase Plan I Inclusive & Supportive Culture
Salary Range: $ 144,100.00 - 190,000.00 per year plus bonus
Please note that the salary range information provided is a general guideline only, reflecting a position based in Virginia. Criteria such as the candidate's qualifications and relevant experience, the scope of the specific position, as well as market and business considerations will be evaluated when extending an offer.
Your Challenge:
  • Leading large technical teams to meet complex customer requirements
  • Representing the company as the technical expert to customers, suppliers, and CW management
  • Synthesizing requirements into the lowest risk solution available
  • Producing technical documentation to adequately describe CW's solution to both the customer and the engineering team
  • Providing technical guidance to cross functional teams
  • Reporting technical status and way forward to varied audiences
  • Recommending training to enhance team development
  • Evaluating technical performance and potential to individual performers and job applicants; assuming technical responsibility for the performance of the teams in his/her charge

What You Bring:
  • 10 plus years of experience at US DoD Primes or at a company that directly supports them.
  • Knowledge of system hardware/software development, integration and test for deployed military vehicle applications
  • Exceptional problem solving skills
  • Expert knowledge of the systems engineering tools DOORS and Cameo
  • Working knowledge of engineering development tools like Clearquest, JIRA, and Rational Development Tools
  • Ability to operate and debug Linux and VxWorks based computing systems
  • Solid understanding of SOSA and VPX system design standards
  • Solid understanding of serial communication protocols such as MIL-STD-1553, RS422, RS485, RS232, 10G and 100G Gigabit Ethernet, PCIe, USB
  • Solid understanding of the latest processing and graphics solutions
  • Excellent troubleshooting skills of rugged computing systems
  • Ability to lead in a team environment
  • Ability to drive clarity to ambiguous requests or requirements
  • Ability to work well in a fast-paced professional office environment
  • Experience conducting System Safety Assessment, Functional Hazard assessment and Failure Mode Effects Analysis is a plus
  • Previous experience in RTCA/DO-254/DO-178 processes and FAA Certification is a plus
  • Experience with Microsoft Office including Word Excel, PowerPoint and Project
  • BS Computer Science, BS Software Engineering, BS Electrical Engineering preferred

Who We Are:
Our Values
Environmental, Social and Governance
Curtiss-Wright's Defense Solution division is a trusted, proven leader, delivering superior products and services that meet the defense and aerospace industries' toughest challenges with best-in-class value. Our solutions address air, ground, and naval defense applications, and are focused on growth segments with a high demand for advanced technology, enhanced safety, security, and performance. As a leading Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA) solutions supplier for battlefield platforms and communication systems, we are uniquely positioned to benefit from the DoD's commitment to maintaining technological superiority on the battlefield.
To learn more visit: https://www.curtisswrightds.com/
#LI-YH1
No unsolicited agency submittals please. Agency partners must be invited to participate in a search by our Talent Acquisition Team and have signed terms in place prior to any submittal. Resumes submitted directly to any Curtiss-Wright employee or affiliate will not qualify for fee payment, and therefore become the property of Curtiss-Wright.
Compliance Statement
This position may require exposure to export-controlled information and subject to additional security screening. In the event information provided during the security screening reveals ineligibility to access export-controlled information, any offer of employment may be reconsidered or withdrawn.
Curtiss-Wright is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, ethnicity, color, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical or mental disability, age, ancestry, legally protected medical condition, family care status, marital status, religion, veteran status, national origin, or any other legally protected status. If you require accommodation during the recruitment process, please contact Talent Acquisition.
For US Applicants: EEO is The Law - click here for more information.
If you require accommodation due to a disability at any time during the recruitment and/or assessment process, please contact Talent Acquisition and we will make all reasonable efforts to accommodate your request.

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About Curtiss-Wright

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Curtiss-Wright Actuation Division designs, manufactures and supports electro-mechanical actuation products and systems for use in demanding applications in Aerospace, Defense and Industrial Automation markets. Our market leading solutions help improve the reliability, efficiency and performance of our customers' operations and platforms, as well as reducing their environmental impact with energy efficient electro-mechanical designs and technology. For the Aerospace market, we supply actuation systems for flight control, landing gear, utility and other applications on both commercial and military aircraft. In Ground & Naval Defense markets, we support a wide array of applications ranging from door assist, ramp and hatch actuation, weapons handling systems, radar and launch platform actuation, and robotic (AUV/ROV) actuation. In Industrial Automation, our Exlar® actuators are globally recognized as a leading brand offering high power density, precision and reliability for machine/process applications in automotive, food & beverage, oil & gas, robotics, entertainment and many other industries.

Industry

Computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Davidson, NC, US

Year founded

1929

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