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Senior Staff Systems Engineer Jobs in Reston, VA

Think Tank, Inc.

Senior Systems Engineer

Silver Spring, MD · Remote

$108K - $148K/yr

The Senior Systems Engineer serves as the senior technical authority for engineering and systems activities in support of the NOAA. This position provides organization-wide engineering leadership and ...

Unity Compass

Senior Systems Engineer

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$90K - $175K/yr

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Senior Systems Engineer to lead enterprise-level systems engineering activities in support of mission-critical geospatial intelligence (GEOINT ...

Think Tank, Inc.

Senior Systems Engineer

Silver Spring, MD · On-site

$108K - $148K/yr

The Senior Systems Engineer serves as the senior technical authority for engineering and systems activities in support of the NOAA. This position provides organization-wide engineering leadership and ...

Chenega Corporation

Senior Systems Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$119K - $163K/yr

The Senior Systems Engineer supports design, integration, and lifecycle management of complex ... Experience supporting DoD, CDAO, Joint Staff, or Combatant Command programs involving AI, data ...

Chenega MIOS

Senior Systems Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$120K - $164K/yr

The Senior Systems Engineer supports design, integration, and lifecycle management of complex ... Experience supporting DoD, CDAO, Joint Staff, or Combatant Command programs involving AI, data ...

Chenega Corporation

Senior Systems Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$119K - $163K/yr

The Senior Systems Engineer supports design, integration, and lifecycle management of complex ... Experience supporting DoD, CDAO, Joint Staff, or Combatant Command programs involving AI, data ...

Chenega MIOS

Senior Systems Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$120K - $164K/yr

The Senior Systems Engineer supports design, integration, and lifecycle management of complex ... Experience supporting DoD, CDAO, Joint Staff, or Combatant Command programs involving AI, data ...

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All JobsStaff Systems Engineer JobsSenior Staff Systems Engineer JobsSenior Staff Systems Engineer Jobs in Reston, VA

Senior Staff Systems Engineer information

See Reston, VA salary details

$58.3K

$129.8K

$183.1K

How much do senior staff systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior staff systems engineer in Reston, VA is $129,766.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $108,700.00 and $148,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a senior staff systems engineer do?

A Senior Staff Systems Engineer is responsible for designing, integrating, and managing complex systems within an organization. They lead technical projects, provide expert guidance on system architecture, and ensure that all components work together seamlessly. Their role often involves collaborating with cross-functional teams, troubleshooting high-level system issues, and developing strategies to improve system performance and reliability. Senior Staff Systems Engineers are also expected to mentor junior engineers and contribute to long-term technology planning.

How does a senior staff systems engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during complex projects?

As a Senior Staff Systems Engineer, you'll frequently work alongside software, hardware, and product management teams to design and integrate complex system solutions. This role often involves facilitating technical discussions, translating requirements across disciplines, and ensuring that all components align with the overall system architecture. Strong communication and leadership skills are essential, as you may mentor junior engineers and coordinate project milestones across departments. Effective collaboration helps ensure timely delivery and high-quality results in fast-paced engineering environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a senior staff systems engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Senior Staff Systems Engineer, you need deep expertise in systems architecture, integration, and engineering principles, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree and extensive industry experience. Familiarity with systems modeling tools (e.g., SysML), requirements management platforms, and certifications like INCOSE CSEP are often expected. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills help you coordinate cross-functional teams and drive project success. These skills ensure robust system design, seamless integration, and the delivery of complex technical solutions that meet organizational goals.

What is the difference between Senior Staff Systems Engineer vs Lead Systems Engineer?

AspectSenior Staff Systems EngineerLead Systems Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master’s in Engineering, certifications like CISSP, PMP often preferredSimilar educational background, often with additional leadership certifications
Work EnvironmentDesign, develop, and optimize complex systems; collaborate across teamsOversees project execution, manages teams, and ensures system integration
Industry UsageCommon in aerospace, defense, and large tech firmsUsed in similar industries, often with a focus on project leadership
Search & Comparison IntentFocuses on technical expertise and system designEmphasizes leadership and project management skills

The main difference is that a Senior Staff Systems Engineer primarily focuses on advanced technical system development, while a Lead Systems Engineer combines technical expertise with leadership responsibilities overseeing projects and teams.

What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Senior Staff Systems Engineer jobs?

Cities near Reston, VA with the most Senior Staff Systems Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Senior Staff Systems Engineer job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $129,766 per year, or $62.4 per hour.

Senior Systems Engineer

Springfield, VA • On-site

Systems Planning and Analysis
Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Manufacturing • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about Systems Planning and Analysisexternal

$109K - $149K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Overview
Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. (SPA) delivers high-impact, technical solutions to complex national security issues. With over 50 years of business expertise and consistent growth, we are known for continuous innovation for our government customers, in both the US and abroad. Our exceptionally talented team is highly collaborative in spirit and practice, producing Results that Matter. Come work with the best! We offer opportunity, unique challenges, and clear-sighted commitment to the mission. SPA: Objective. Responsive. Trusted.
The Space and Intelligence Division provides professional services to the US Space Force, Combatant Commands, Intelligence Community, and NASA. Our work includes enterprise architectural assessments, systems engineering and integration, test, planning and execution, cost estimating and analysis, acquisition support, and cybersecurity. We are trusted partners developing approaches and concepts to meet emerging high priority needs, assessing cutting-edge technologies, and supporting capabilities for our National Defense. Come join the fastest growing Division at Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc.!
The Intelligence Programs Group (IPG), part of SPA's Space and Intelligence Division, is a specialized provider of systems engineering and trusted advisory services to the Space and National Intelligence community. We utilize mission-proven, data-driven advisory tools and capabilities. We provide highly technical support to ensure the government acquires cutting edge technology necessary for our National Defense. Our portfolio includes the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA), National Reconnaissance Office (NRO), and National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). Come where you will be part of our high-caliber team!
Responsibilities
SPA has an immediate need for a Senior Systems Engineer. The successful candidate will employ a multi-discipline approach to GEOINT requirements engineering, solutions engineering, reliability, resiliency, services development, integration, test and evaluation to ensure modernization and integration of the GEOINT architecture across the enterprise.
The key duties associated with this role include but are not limited to the following:
  • Ensure the GEOINT architecture is maximized to support the TCPED cycle (Tasking, Collection, Processing, Exploitation, Dissemination).
  • Ensure maintainability and access across controlled program/special access program (CAP/SAP) architectures.
  • Develop and maintain System Engineering Plans (SEPs) and contractors' System Engineering Management Plans (SEMPs).
  • Develop and maintain standard acquisition documentation for PMO portfolio, including standardized requirements documentation and processes (e.g. DOORS).
  • Define repeatable processes/procedures for transitioning new technologies and integrating new applications into the PEO infrastructure.
  • Participate in requirements development and documentation.
  • Create and maintain standards and specifications for PEO programs and capabilities.
  • Prepare and review Requests For Information (RFI) responses to identify innovative and new technologies to prototype and transition into the operations.
  • Assist in the evaluation of proposed industry solutions including program reviews (SRR, PDR, CDR, etc.).
  • Provide input to PEO strategic roadmaps and systems engineering products to help ensure program rigor, resolve potential gaps, drive cross-cutting integration, ensure data is protected appropriately, and ensure mission capabilities are met.
  • Provide baseline requirements (Request For Change (RFC)) support to include the full breadth of National Geospatial Intelligence Agency (NGA) and mission partner requirements.

Qualifications
  • Active TS/SCI clearance
  • Master's degree in Systems Engineering or in related technical or scientific fields such as Engineering, Physics, Mathematics, Operations Research, Engineering Management, Computer Science, Information Technology, Management Information Systems, or related STEM degree program; or 18 years of experience as a Systems Engineer in lieu of a degree
  • 10 years of working experience in government or industry in relevant work areas, including DoD/IC Acquisition Process, Requirements Process, PPBES Process, or system engineering of large complex System of Systems or Service Oriented Architecture/Cloud environments
  • Experience with and strong understanding of systems engineering lifecycle
  • Documented Expert-level work experience and demonstrated knowledge of:
    • GEOINT TCPED cycle and familiarity with systems / services that comprise TCPED
    • NGA and its Mission Partners
  • Ability to report to designated work location in Springfield, VA, up to full time, based on the needs of the customer

Pay Range Information
At SPA, we strive to deliver a robust total compensation package that will attract and retain top talent. Elements of the compensation package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities. SPA provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and a number of programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work. The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, etc. Please note that the salary information shown below is a general guideline only. Salaries are commensurate with experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations. Virginia, Pay Transparency Salary range: USD $190,000.00/Yr. - USD $210,000.00/Yr.

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