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Principal Systems Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Principal Systems Engineer is expected to provide system level trade-space assessments of approaches working with the Project Engineer to determine the benefit trade-offs. At Ultra Maritime, the ...

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* Seeking a Principal Systems Engineer (MBSE) to provide enterprise wide systems engineering and integration support within the Intelligence Community. * The ideal candidate will apply Model Based ...

V2X is seeking a Senior Principal Systems Engineer to join our Engineering team in Indianapolis, IN supporting development and integration of advanced systems including situational awareness displays ...

V2X is seeking a Senior Principal Systems Engineer to join our Engineering team in Indianapolis, IN supporting development and integration of advanced systems including situational awareness displays ...

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Principal Systems Engineer information

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$21K

$149.2K

$224.5K

How much do principal systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal systems engineer in the United States is $149,214.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $120,000.00 and $175,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Principal Systems Engineers and senior engineers in fields such as software, aerospace, and electrical engineering often earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, or working in high-demand industries. Compensation can also include bonuses, stock options, and other benefits depending on the company and location.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Principal Systems Engineers and senior engineering roles in fields like software, aerospace, and cybersecurity can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, specialized skills, and advanced certifications. Compensation varies based on industry, location, and company size, often including bonuses and stock options.

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 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 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 engineers make $500,000 a year?

Principal Systems Engineers in specialized industries such as aerospace, defense, or high-tech sectors can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership roles. Compensation at this level often includes bonuses, stock options, or profit sharing, reflecting the seniority and complexity of the projects they manage.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Principal Systems Engineer, and why are they important?

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.
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What are popular job titles related to Principal Systems Engineer jobs? For Principal Systems Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Principal/Sr. Principal Systems Engineer

Principal/Sr. Principal Systems Engineer

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Rolling Meadows, IL • Hybrid

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 353 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

108th of 528 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be availableCLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: YesCLEARANCE TYPE: SAPTRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescriptionAt 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.

Northrop Grumman Mission Systems (NGMS) seeks to fill a Principal/Sr. Principal Systems Engineer position in the Mission Modeling Department at our Rolling Meadows, Illinois location. This role encompasses team leadership, management, and technical performance. Department assignments will be made at the conclusion of the interview process and be based on the candidate's fit and preference.


NGMS is a leading global provider, manufacturer and integrator of advanced, secure and agile software-defined systems and solutions. Our products range from advanced sensing technologies to state-of-the-art targeting and tracking systems that are deployed in Electro-Optical Infrared (EOIR) tracking and counter measures and Radio Frequency Electronic Warfare (RFEW) systems. Our SEIT organization provides complex avionics systems in Targeting, EOIR, and RF technology areas.

In the Mission Modeling department, you will develop, integrate, test and analyze complex virtual representations of systems and environments. Responsibilities may include development of simulation code and scripts, design of system models, documentation of model assumptions and performance, test automation, test reports, and execution of integration test activities in virtual environments and/or System Integration Labs (SILs) or offsite locations. You will also perform mission level operational analysis utilizing System of Systems modeling and agent-based simulation. You'll be able to apply your knowledge and experience in EOIR systems, optics, RF systems, algorithms, detection and tracking.


This position will be full-time, on-site at our Rolling Meadows, IL location.

This position is contingent upon Funding/Contract award, special access programs and acquiring and maintaining the necessary US Government security clearance per customers' requirements prior to start.

This position can be filled at the Principal Systems Engineer or Sr. Principal Systems Engineer level based on specific requirements listed below.

Basic Qualifications for Principal Systems Engineer:

  • Bachelor's degree in a Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM) field with 5 years of related experience; OR a Master's degree in a STEM field with 3 years of related experience; OR PhD in a STEM field with 1 years of related experience.
  • Demonstrated proficiency in analytical thinking, problem solving skills and Systems thinking mindset
  • Knowledge of and experience in model-based systems engineering concepts such as SysML and tools such as Cameo and Rhapsody
  • Knowledge of and experience in MATLAB, C, C++, CUDA, VHDL, OpenCL, SysML, Python, or other scripting languages
  • Experience with virtual environments, operational analysis or mission modeling (AFSIM, STK, BRAWLER, ATCOM, ONESAF)
  • Ability to work and lead engineers in an integrated product team (IPT) environment
  • US Citizenship required
  • Current Active Secret Clearance

Basic Qualifications for Sr. Principal Systems Engineer:

  • Bachelor's degree in a Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM) field with 8 years of related experience; OR a Master's degree in a STEM field with 6 years of related experience; OR PhD in a STEM field with 4 years of related experience.
  • Demonstrated proficiency in analytical thinking, problem solving skills and Systems thinking mindset
  • Knowledge of and experience in model-based systems engineering concepts such as SysML and tools such as Cameo and Rhapsody
  • Knowledge of and experience in MATLAB, C, C++, CUDA, VHDL, OpenCL, SysML, Python, or other scripting languages
  • Experience with virtual environments, operational analysis or mission modeling (AFSIM, STK, BRAWLER, ATCOM, ONESAF)
  • Ability to work and lead engineers in an integrated product team (IPT) environment
  • US Citizenship required
  • Current Active Secret Clearance

Preferred Qualifications for Principal/Sr. Principal Systems Engineer:

  • Experience with real-time signal processing in both firmware and software
  • Agile development experience
  • Experience in Electronic Warfare
  • Experience in an abstract modeling environment (Rhapsody, Cameo, UML etc) for complex electronic systems evaluation
  • Experience performing system verification and validation
  • Working knowledge of EOIR systems, optics, RF systems, algorithms, detection and/or tracking
  • Proficiency in MATLAB, C, C++, CUDA, VHDL, OpenCL, SysML, Python, or other scripting languages
  • Working knowledge of DOORS and ClearCase/ClearQuest
  • Experience in an integration and test environment for complex electronic systems evaluation
  • Experience in development and earned value management of cost accounts and schedules as related to Systems Engineering tasks
Primary Level Salary Range: $108,800.00 - $163,200.00Secondary Level Salary Range: $135,800.00 - $203,600.00The 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