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Senior Systems Engineer Jobs in Highlands Ranch, CO

Sr Systems Engineer

Centennial, CO · On-site

$107K - $147K/yr

The Sr Systems Engineer champions the viewpoint of the integrated whole during system development and works to glue segments and subsystems together via top-down decomposition of stakeholder ...

Job Title : Sr. Systems Engineer Reporting To: Management, Design Engineering Work Schedule: Onsite - Buffalo, NY As a Sr. Systems Engineer in our Space & Defense Group in East Aurora, NY or Arvada ...

Sr Systems Engineer

Lone Tree, CO · On-site

$143K - $197K/yr

As a Senior Systems Engineer, you will exhibit expert-level skills in requirements engineering, systems integration, Verification & Validation (V&V), and Model Based Systems Engineering (MBSE). You ...

Senior Systems Engineer

Aurora, CO · Hybrid

$106K - $145K/yr

We are seeking a Senior Systems Engineer to drive the technical design, system integration, and deployment of mission operations services supporting NOAA's Space Weather Observations Mission ...

Senior Systems Engineer

Aurora, CO · Hybrid

$106K - $145K/yr

We are seeking a Senior Systems Engineer to drive the technical design, system integration, and deployment of mission operations services supporting NOAA's Space Weather Observations Mission ...

Senior Systems Engineer I

Westminster, CO · On-site

$105K - $144K/yr

We are looking to add a Senior Systems Engineer to our team. If you enjoy working in a startup environment and are passionate about developing leading-edge phased arrays for satellites, spacecraft ...

Senior Systems Engineer I

Westminster, CO · On-site

$105K - $144K/yr

We are looking to add a Senior Systems Engineer to our team. If you enjoy working in a startup environment and are passionate about developing leading-edge phased arrays for satellites, spacecraft ...

Senior Systems Engineer I

Westminster, CO · On-site

$133K - $160K/yr

We are looking to add a Senior Systems Engineer to our team. If you enjoy working in a startup environment and are passionate about developing leading-edge phased arrays for satellites, spacecraft ...

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Senior Systems Engineer information

See Highlands Ranch, CO salary details

$58.8K

$130.9K

$184.7K

How much do senior systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior systems engineer in Highlands Ranch, CO is $130,920.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $109,700.00 and $150,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by senior systems engineers when integrating new technologies into existing infrastructure?

Senior Systems Engineers often encounter challenges such as ensuring compatibility between legacy systems and new technologies, minimizing downtime during migrations, and addressing unforeseen security vulnerabilities. Effective integration requires thorough planning, cross-team collaboration, and detailed testing to avoid disruptions to business operations. Staying current with emerging technologies and adopting best practices for change management are essential for overcoming these challenges and ensuring smooth implementation.

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

To thrive as a Senior Systems Engineer, you need expertise in systems architecture, troubleshooting, and network administration, typically supported by a degree in computer science or a related field and several years of relevant experience. Familiarity with virtualization platforms, cloud services (like AWS or Azure), automation tools (such as Ansible or PowerShell), and certifications like CompTIA, Microsoft, or Cisco are often required. Outstanding problem-solving, communication, and project management skills help you lead initiatives and collaborate effectively across teams. These competencies are crucial for ensuring system reliability, scalability, and security in complex IT environments.

What is a senior systems engineer?

A senior systems engineer is an IT (information technology) professional tasked with designing and maintaining network systems and security. Examples include large server or storage systems, computer networks, and mainframes. As a systems engineer, your primary duties are to oversee the daily operations of your facility and lead a team of engineers in designing new systems to replace old ones. You may work for a company that provides engineering services and solutions for other businesses, or you may be part of a large university or other institution's IT department. Skills needed for the career include the ability to work independently, leadership, and analytical problem-solving. A bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or IT and significant experience in a lower systems engineering position are essential qualifications.

What is the difference between Senior Systems Engineer vs Systems Administrator?

AspectSenior Systems EngineerSystems Administrator
CertificationsCompTIA Security+, Cisco CCNA, Microsoft certificationsCompTIA A+, Network+, Microsoft certifications
Work EnvironmentDesigning, implementing, and troubleshooting complex systemsManaging daily system operations and user support
Industry UsageIT, technology, enterprise environmentsIT support, small to medium businesses

While both roles involve working with IT systems, Senior Systems Engineers focus on designing and implementing complex infrastructure, whereas Systems Administrators handle routine maintenance and user support. The senior role typically requires more advanced certifications and experience, and often involves strategic planning and system architecture.

What are the most commonly searched types of Systems Engineer jobs in Highlands Ranch, CO? The most popular types of Systems Engineer jobs in Highlands Ranch, CO are:
What are popular job titles related to Senior Systems Engineer jobs in Highlands Ranch, CO? For Senior Systems Engineer jobs in Highlands Ranch, CO, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Highlands Ranch, CO are hiring for Senior Systems Engineer jobs? Cities near Highlands Ranch, CO with the most Senior Systems Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Senior Systems Engineer job openings in Highlands Ranch, CO as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,920 per year, or $62.9 per hour.

Sr Systems Engineer

Sierra Space Corporation

Centennial, CO • On-site

$107K - $147K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Sierra Space Careers:

At Sierra Space, we build the missions and systems that keep our world secure in the domain above Earth.

Sierra Space team members share a spirit of innovation and collaboration and a belief that we can deliver on the boldest missions in space today. Together with our customers, we aim to safeguard our nation, sustain human presence in space, and secure the freedom of operations in low Earth orbit and beyond.

Our success is measured by the trust of those who rely on what we build and deliver, and our technologies keep the United States and its allies mission-ready throughout space.

We are mission-driven, and together, we are an extraordinary team.

About the RoleThe Sr Systems Engineer contributes to the development and implementation of advanced system solutions by providing alignment, connection and direction to the technical team throughout the product development lifecycle. The Sr Systems Engineer champions the viewpoint of the integrated whole during system development and works to glue segments and subsystems together via top-down decomposition of stakeholder requirements, traceability through development artifacts, and bottom-up validation and verification of the system. They shepherd the team through technical development milestones, track performance measures and identify technical risks to arrive at a compliant and cohesive system solution. The Sr Systems Engineer is a promoter of Systems Engineering principles and has expertise across the major systems engineering skills including requirements management, system architecture development, concept of operation definition, system integration and system verification. The Sr Systems Engineer leads teams to execute systems engineering scope and helps to develop systems thinking in others.
In this role, you will lead the specification, architecting, and integration of complex system solutions while collaborating with cross-functional teams and subject matter experts to understand project requirements and objectives. You will oversee the derivation, decomposition, allocation, tracing, and management of system requirements and architectures, as well as define and document system concepts of operation. Leading development milestone reviews by creating artifacts and deliverables will be a key responsibility, alongside overseeing system integration and verification activities to ensure system functionality and performance. You will identify and manage technical risks, develop mitigation strategies, and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives by identifying areas for enhancement. Adhering to established engineering processes and standards will be essential, and you will communicate effectively with team members and stakeholders to ensure project alignment and successful execution.About You

Our mission is driven by an unyielding commitment to advancing space-based technology in service of our customers and safeguarding national security. We seek individuals who are passionate about innovating beyond boundaries and relentlessly pursuing solutions that protect, preserve and empower - to join us in this critical mission.

We're looking for team members who align with our values, mission and goals - while also meeting the minimum qualifications below. The preferred qualifications are a bonus, not a requirement.

Minimum Qualifications:
  • Requires Bachelor's degree in a related field (or equivalent work experience in lieu of degree or Masters +8 yrs experience).
  • Typically 10+ years of related experience (or Masters + 8 years of experience).
  • Demonstrated expertise in Systems Engineering principles and practices, including a comprehensive understanding of the systems development lifecycle.
  • Progressive experience across the system development lifecycle, including requirements management, functional requirements parsing, derivation, and allocation.
  • Progressive experience developing systems architecture and performing systems integration, verification, and validation (V&V) activities.
  • Demonstrated ability to work and communicate with technical and specialty subject matter expert engineers to drive systems engineering products.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Master's degree in Engineering, Physics, or a related field.
  • Extensive experience with Requirements Management and Model Based Systems Engineering tools and frameworks, such as DOORS, CAMEO EA, Rhapsody, Matlab, and SysML.
  • Strong understanding of spacecraft systems, including hardware and software subsystems and components.
  • Strong understanding of project management methodologies including risk management and technical performance tracking.
  • Strong understanding of technical baseline and configuration management.
  • Proven experience in leading projects and mentoring junior and mid-level engineers.
  • Experience or certification in INCOSE standards.
  • Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
  • Ability to adapt to a fast-paced and dynamic work environment.
Compensation:

Pay Range:

$143,700.00 - $197,608.50

Your actual base compensation will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on job-related knowledge and skills, education,experience, internal equity and market competitiveness.

IMPORTANT NOTICE:

This position requires current/active Top Secret with SCI eligibility U.S. Security Clearance. U.S. Citizenship status is required as this position needs an active U.S. Security Clearance for employment. Non-U.S. Citizens may not be eligible to obtain a security clearance. The Department of Defense Consolidated Adjudications Facility (DoD CAF), a federal government agency, handles the adjudicative aspects of the security clearance eligibility process for industry applicants. Adjudicative factors which affect the outcome of the eligibility determination include, but are not limited to, allegiance to the U.S., foreign influence, foreign preference, criminal conduct, security violations and illegal drug use.

Elevate Your Career

At Sierra Space, we are committed to your personal and professional development. We empower you to make profound and meaningful contributions and foster a vibrant culture of collaboration, where teamwork ignites breakthrough innovations.


We also offer a generous benefit package, including medical, dental, and vision plans, 401(k) with 150% match up to 6%, life insurance, 3 weeks paid time off, and more.

Sierra Space is an industry-leading space and defense technology company providing satellites, spacecraft, and enabling mission systems and components. We deliver mission-proven technologies to our customers that safeguard our nation, protect space-based assets and enable space exploration.

Application Deadline: This role will remain posted until a qualified pool of candidates is identified.

Please note: Sierra Space does not accept unsolicited resumes from contract agencies or search firms. Any unsolicited resumes submitted to our website or to Sierra Space team members not through our approved vendor list or Talent Acquisition will be considered property of Sierra Space, and we will not be obligated to pay any referral fees.

Sierra Space Corporationis an equal opportunity employer and is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. If you need special assistance or a reasonable accommodation related to applying for employment withSierra Spaceor at any stage of the recruitment process, pleasecontact us.