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Principal Systems Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Principal Systems Engineers Location: Minnetonka, MN, Onsite role Experience : 10+ Years Looking for talented Principal Systems Engineers to join our growing team in Minnetonka, MN! Systems thinker ...

Principal Systems Engineer Location: Shoreview, MN Travel: Quarterly travel to Austin, TX (approx. once per quarter) Contract Duration: 12 Months Experience Requirements โ€ข Minimum Years of ...

Principal Systems Engineer will have a broad technical background spanning hardware, software, mobile, and cloud technologies with a deep understanding of medical device regulations and best ...

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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 Jun 27, 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 $300,000 a year?

Principal Systems Engineers and senior engineering roles in fields like software, aerospace, and cybersecurity can reach or exceed $300,000 annually, especially with experience, specialized skills, and advanced certifications. These positions often involve leadership, complex problem-solving, and working with cutting-edge technologies in high-demand industries.

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 engineers make $500,000?

Principal Systems Engineers and senior engineering roles in fields such as software, aerospace, and cybersecurity can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially with experience, advanced skills, and bonuses. High compensation often involves leadership responsibilities, specialized expertise, and working in high-demand industries or companies.

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.

How much do principal engineers get paid?

Principal Systems Engineers typically earn between $120,000 and $180,000 annually, depending on experience, industry, and location. They often hold advanced technical skills and may receive additional compensation such as bonuses or stock options.

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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Infographic showing various Principal Systems Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 99% Full Time, and 1% Part Time. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $149,214 per year, or $71.7 per hour.
Principal Systems Engineer

Principal Systems Engineer

ADDSOURCE

Minnesota City, MN โ€ข On-site

Other

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Principal Systems Engineers

Location: Minnetonka, MN, Onsite role

Experience : 10+ Years

Looking for talented Principal Systems Engineers to join our growing team in Minnetonka, MN! Systems thinker who loves solving complex engineering challenges that actually save lives...

POSITION SUMMARY:

This position will contribute to the company success through the design and development of capital equipment and devices. This position will report to the Senior Director, Research and Development in the Franchise. The individual will work on capital equipment projects to design, build, and test next generation capital equipment that is used by cardiac surgeons and electrophysiologists. This position contributes in a collaborative way with management, project teams, production associates, external vendors and other work groups to achieve the company's goals of producing market-lead products through positive patient outcomes. The Principal Systems Engineer may work independently on projects with broad scope or be a team member on PD project.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF THE POSITION:

  • Define and lead system development tasks to include design, integration, and formal testing of capital equipment and devices
  • Develop and complete actions in system specifications, technical and logistical requirements, and other disciplines
  • Identify and develop a rapport with key customers surgeons, nurses, and other clinicians
  • Develop in-depth understanding of clinical procedures and techniques applicable to AtriCure products
  • Create and maintain programmatic and technical documentation to ensure efficient planning and execution
  • Aligns and coordinates resources, priorities, work plans, and activities among outside suppliers and the AtriCure Product Development group
  • Determines work procedures, prepares work schedules, and expedites workflow
  • Design, develop and test all aspects of electrical components, equipment and machinery
  • Communicate with and direct external suppliers of components, subassemblies and finished assemblies.
  • Generate and document intellectual property
  • Develop and perform stress and performance tests on a variety of electrical/electronic system hardware including circuit boards, processors and wiring
  • Perform a variety of complex engineering design and development tasks, to include design, testing and analysis, verification, and validation
  • Develop and validate test methods
  • Review and authorize engineering design changes
  • Develop component and product technical specifications including the integration and consideration of applicable standards and regulations
  • Mentor junior engineers

ADDITIONAL ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF THE POSITION:

  • Regular and predictable work performance
  • Ability to work under fast-paced conditions
  • Ability to make decisions and use good judgement
  • Ability to prioritize various duties and multitask as required
  • Ability to successfully work with others
  • Additional duties as assigned

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

  • BS in Engineering
  • 15+ years of experience in systems engineering or equivalent field
  • Demonstrated skills in System engineering
  • Experience in hardware/software development methodologies and structured approaches to system development
  • Must be proficient acting in and leading integrated process teams, as well as coordinating and communicating customer requirements
  • Demonstrated understanding of circuits and circuit design
  • Understanding of program management tools and expectations of medical device design and manufacturing controls
  • Experience working with customers and translating the "Voice of the Customer" into technical specifications
  • Demonstrated understanding of protocol/report writing
  • Experience with data analysis, problem-solving, and troubleshooting
  • Knowledge of Design Controls and experience with FDA QSR 21 CFR Part 820 and ISO 13485
  • Ability to read technical specifications, blueprints, and drawings
  • Capable of prioritizing tasks and provide a timely schedule of completion
  • Capable of sub-assembly level analysis (not limited to circuit, tolerance or finite element analysis)
  • Demonstrated proficiencies of communicating best practices
  • Experience with International Usability Standards and the practical application of Usability Engineering
  • Ability to travel 25%

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  • MS degree in Systems Engineering or Electrical Engineering
  • Excellent demonstrated skills in System engineering
  • Vast Experience in hardware/software development methodologies and structured approaches to system development
  • Demonstrated proficiency in leading integrated process teams, as well as coordinating and communicating customer requirements
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills
  • Excellent understanding of industry regulations as it pertains to medical devices
  • Excellent understanding of external standards, design controls, quality controls, manufacturing methods
  • Proven track record of generating and documenting intellectual property
  • Experience with Human Factors for medical devices/equipment
  • Expertise with International Usability Standards and the practical application of Usability Engineering

OTHER REQUIREMENTS:

  • Ability to regularly walk, sit, or stand as needed
  • Ability to occasionally bend and push/pull as needed
  • Ability to regularly lift up to 25 pounds, occasionally lift over 25 pounds
  • Ability to pass pre-employment drug screen and background check