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System Engineer Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Network Systems Engineer

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

$120K - $125K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Network Systems Engineer Duties : Responsible for a wide range of duties including computer network ... Monitoring and optimizing system performance. Creating and managing user accounts. Designing and ...

Network Systems Engineer

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

$120K - $125K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Network Systems Engineer Duties : Responsible for a wide range of duties including computer network ... Monitoring and optimizing system performance. Creating and managing user accounts. Designing and ...

Tax Innovation - Data Engineer - Manager

Chicago, IL

$99K - $266K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Within our Tax practice, you will focus on designing and building data infrastructure and systems ... Management, Computer Science/Information Systems, Economics, Engineering, Finance, Mathematics ...

Showing results 41-60

System Engineer Manager information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$62.3K

$146.4K

$201.9K

How much do system engineer manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for system engineer manager in Chicago, IL is $146,353.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $117,400.00 and $178,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a system engineer manager?

System Engineer Managers are professionals who lead teams of system engineers responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining complex information systems. They oversee projects, coordinate technical activities, and ensure that systems meet organizational requirements for reliability, security, and efficiency. Additionally, they serve as a bridge between upper management and technical staff, providing guidance, mentoring, and support to their teams. Their role is critical in ensuring that IT infrastructure aligns with business goals and operates smoothly.

What are some common challenges system engineer managers face when leading cross-functional teams?

System Engineer Managers often encounter challenges in aligning the diverse goals and workflows of cross-functional teams, which may include engineers, IT specialists, and project managers. Balancing technical priorities with business objectives, managing communication across different disciplines, and ensuring that all stakeholders are updated on project progress are frequent hurdles. Effective delegation, strong interpersonal skills, and a proactive approach to conflict resolution are essential for overcoming these challenges and ensuring successful project delivery.

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

To excel as a System Engineer Manager, you need a strong background in systems engineering, project management, and leadership, typically supported by a relevant degree and experience in IT infrastructure. Familiarity with tools like VMware, Linux/Windows server environments, and certifications such as PMP or ITIL are commonly expected. Exceptional communication, problem-solving, and team-building skills help you effectively lead cross-functional teams and manage complex projects. These competencies are crucial for ensuring system reliability, aligning technology with business goals, and driving team performance.

What is the difference between System Engineer Manager vs System Engineer?

AspectSystem Engineer ManagerSystem Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or higher in Computer Science, Engineering; often leadership certificationsBachelor's degree in related field; certifications like CompTIA, Cisco are common
Work EnvironmentLeads teams, manages projects, strategic planningDesigns, implements, maintains systems; works individually or in teams
Employer & Industry UsageIT departments, tech companies, large enterprisesIT firms, tech departments, system integrators
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding managerial roles, leadership responsibilitiesTechnical skills, system design, implementation

The main difference between a System Engineer Manager and a System Engineer lies in their responsibilities. The manager oversees teams, strategic planning, and project management, while the system engineer focuses on technical system design, implementation, and maintenance. Both roles require relevant technical credentials, but the manager also emphasizes leadership and coordination skills.

Is a system engineer manager a high paying job?

A system engineer manager typically earns a high salary due to their leadership responsibilities, technical expertise, and experience in managing engineering teams. Salaries can vary based on industry, location, and company size but generally rank above average for engineering roles. Certifications like PMP or advanced technical skills can also influence compensation levels.

What are the most commonly searched types of System Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of System Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for System Engineer Manager jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most System Engineer Manager job openings:

Systems Engineering Manager 2 (Production Programs)

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Rolling Meadows, IL

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago


Northrop Grumman rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 363 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

88th of 540 rated manufacturers


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be availableCLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: YesCLEARANCE TYPE: SecretTRAVEL: 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 is a trusted provider of mission-enabling solutions for global security. Our Engineering and Sciences (E&S) organization pushes the boundaries of innovation, redefines engineering capabilities, and drives advances in various sciences. Our team is chartered with providing the skills, innovative technologies to develop, design, produce and sustain optimized product lines across the sector while providing a decisive advantage to the warfighter. Come be a part of our mission!

We are looking for you to join our team as a Systems Engineering Manager 2 to lead Production Programs based out of Rolling Meadows, IL. We currently have a System Engineering Manager opening supporting our Mission Survivability Systems business unit.

This is a dual-role manager position, balancing the overall Functional oversight and management of a Systems Engineering group of 10-15 engineers, against performance of productive work on a program or several programs. The candidate will spend ~20% of their time on support of the organization (functional duties) and ~80% of their time on technical program work.

The selected candidate(s) will be part of the Systems Engineering Integration & Test (SEIT) team within our Mission Survivability Systems organization.

The Production Programs Manager role will be responsible for a team executing the overall systems engineering effort on production programs and directing the execution of all systems engineering activities. This manager will collaborate across all engineering disciplines, manufacturing, global supply chain, and quality as the engineering point of contact to support Mission Survivability Systems production programs.

Responsibilities for the position include:

Oversee a team of engineers working multiple initiatives including follow-on contracts, new business growth opportunities, internal research and development, and capital projects.

Guide the team in support and adherence to standard SEIT processes and the oversight of cost, schedule, and technical quality for SEIT execution on supported programs, including functional reviews for major milestone events (SRR, PDR, CDR, TRR, etc.) and proposals as applicable.

Work on staffing and workload forecast; employee inclusion, engagement, mentoring and career development; employee training and identification, and training of skills required to execute on programs; management and execution of employee performance review processes; and leadership and execution for a multitude of functional management processes.

Collaborate with our talent acquisition team to meet staffing commitments.

Support initiatives such as Model Based System Engineering (MBSE), Product Line Architecture (PLA), and Agile implementation that provide a competitive advantage for our customers.

#MSRMTA

This role will be full-time and on-site in our Mission Survivability Systems group in Rolling Meadows, IL.

Basic Qualifications for Systems Engineering Manager II:

Bachelor of Science degree in an engineering / technical discipline with a minimum of 8 years' experience or a Master of Science degree in an engineering / technical discipline with a minimum of 6 years' experience.

Proven leadership skills with the ability to work effectively in a team environment.

High proficiency in technical problem solving, to include decomposition, root cause analysis, solution development, implementation and monitoring.

This position requires the applicant to be a U.S. citizen.

Must have the ability to obtain a Secret clearance prior to start date.

Preferred Qualifications:

Master's degree in a relevant technical or management specialty.

Active Secret / Top Secret Clearance.

Ability to obtain Special Access Program (SAP) clearances.

Background and understanding in various tools and techniques associated with cost / schedule management (especially Earned Value Management).

Management experience leading teams including Systems Engineering, Integration, and Test.

Experience working in a systems engineering, integration, and test environment.

Experience with electronic warfare or related defense systems.

Experience with IR (infrared) systems.

Experience in all aspects of the engineering process from proposal / requirements analysis through verification testing.

Demonstrated excellence in written and oral communication skills along with proven success working in an integrated product team environment.

Proficiency in MS Project, MS Office, MATLAB, Simulink, Cameo, Model Based System Engineering (MBSE), and Agile techniques

Primary Level Salary Range: $153,800.00 - $230,800.00The 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