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System Engineer Phd Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Our Space Systems team is looking for an experienced engineering team lead for our Space Systems ... Typically requires a bachelors degree, masters degree or PhD in engineering or a related technical ...

Our Space Systems team is looking for an experienced engineering team lead for our Space Systems ... Typically requires a bachelors degree, masters degree or PhD in engineering or a related technical ...

Sr System Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$107K - $147K/yr

... or PhD with 8-9 years of experience. • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with ... systems engineering concepts and principles. • Requirements analysis and tracing. • Cost ...

Sr System Engineer

Denver, CO · Hybrid

$107K - $147K/yr

PhD with 8-9 years of experience. * Technical Expertise: * Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with exceptional attention to detail. * Familiarity with systems engineering concepts and ...

Sr System Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$107K - $147K/yr

PhD with 8-9 years of experience. * Technical Expertise: * Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with exceptional attention to detail. * Familiarity with systems engineering concepts and ...

Senior Systems Engineer

Boulder, CO · On-site

$140K - $160K/yr

Advanced degree (MS or PhD) in engineering, physics, or a related discipline * Familiarity with quantum computing, atomic, and optical (AMO) physics, or control system integration * Experience ...

Senior Systems Engineer

Boulder, CO · On-site

$140K - $160K/yr

Advanced degree (MS or PhD) in engineering, physics, or a related discipline * Familiarity with quantum computing, atomic, and optical (AMO) physics, or control system integration * Experience ...

Senior Systems Engineer

Boulder, CO · On-site

$140K - $160K/yr

Advanced degree (MS or PhD) in engineering, physics, or a related discipline * Familiarity with quantum computing, atomic, and optical (AMO) physics, or control system integration * Experience ...

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Showing results 1-20

System Engineer Phd information

See Colorado salary details

$56.3K

$133.8K

$175.6K

How much do system engineer phd jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for system engineer phd in Colorado is $133,769.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $103,000.00 and $165,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a system engineer PhD?

System Engineer PhDs are professionals who have earned a doctoral degree (PhD) in systems engineering or a closely related field. They specialize in designing, analyzing, and managing complex systems across various industries, such as aerospace, defense, IT, and manufacturing. Their advanced education enables them to conduct research, develop innovative solutions, and lead multidisciplinary teams to tackle large-scale engineering challenges. System Engineer PhDs often work in academia, research institutions, or high-level industry roles, focusing on optimizing system processes and integration.

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

To thrive as a System Engineer PhD, you need advanced knowledge of systems engineering principles, research methodologies, and typically a doctorate in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with modeling and simulation tools (e.g., MATLAB, Simulink), systems engineering software (e.g., IBM DOORS), and relevant industry certifications are highly valuable. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help you lead complex projects and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams. These skills and qualifications are essential for driving innovation, ensuring robust system design, and successfully managing sophisticated engineering challenges.

What are common challenges system engineer PhDs face when transitioning from academia to industry roles?

System Engineer PhDs often encounter challenges when shifting from academic research to industry, such as adapting to faster project timelines and working within cross-functional teams. In industry, there is typically a greater emphasis on practical application and collaboration, rather than theoretical exploration. Adjusting to structured workflows and aligning technical solutions with business objectives are also key transitions. However, this environment offers opportunities to see the tangible impact of your work and to advance into senior technical or leadership roles.

What is the difference between System Engineer Phd vs Network Engineer?

AspectSystem Engineer PhdNetwork Engineer
Required CredentialsPhd in Engineering or related field, possibly with certifications like Cisco or CompTIAAssociate's or Bachelor's in Computer Science or related, with certifications like Cisco CCNA or CCNP
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, R&D departments, or advanced technical teams in tech companiesNetwork operations centers, IT departments, or telecommunications firms
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, tech companies, or organizations requiring advanced system designTelecom providers, enterprise IT, or service providers

The main difference between a System Engineer Phd and a Network Engineer lies in their focus and qualifications. System Engineers with a Phd typically engage in advanced system design, research, and development, often in research or high-tech environments. Network Engineers focus on designing, implementing, and maintaining network infrastructure, usually with industry certifications. Both roles are essential in tech industries but serve different technical needs and expertise levels.

What can I do with a PhD in system engineer?

A PhD in system engineering prepares individuals for advanced roles in research, development, and systems design across industries such as aerospace, defense, technology, and manufacturing. Graduates often work as systems engineers, research scientists, or technical consultants, utilizing skills in systems analysis, modeling, and simulation, and may pursue careers in academia or industry innovation.

What cities in Colorado are hiring for System Engineer Phd jobs?

Cities in Colorado with the most System Engineer Phd job openings:

Infographic showing various System Engineer Phd job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $133,769 per year, or $64.3 per hour.

Sr. Lead System Engineer

General Atomics

Englewood, CO • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago


General Atomics rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 39 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

10th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Job Summary
General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems (GA-EMS) designs and manufactures first-of-a-kind electromagnetic and electric power generation systems. GA-EMS' expanding portfolio of specialized products and integrated system solutions support critical fleet, space systems and satellites, missile defense, power and energy, and process and monitoring applications for defense, industrial, and commercial customers worldwide.
Our Space Systems team is looking for an experienced engineering team lead for our Space Systems Engineering Department. In this role you will lead the System Engineering team, ensuring the successful design, integration, and verification of GA-EMS developed space systems with their associated ground and launch systems.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Supervise and lead a systems engineering team, including day-to-day tasking, planning, and development and execution of systems engineering artifacts.
  • Provide hands-on leadership and mentorship, including performance evaluations, regular feedback, and development plans to support staff growth and alignment with organizational goals.
  • Coordinate and manage systems engineering resources to ensure the team has the appropriate skill mix to meet program staffing, cost, and schedule requirements.
  • Actively contribute to program execution as a Systems Engineering IPT Lead, accountable for technical, cost, and schedule performance of the IPT and, when needed, as an individual contributor to resolve technical challenges and ensure successful delivery.
  • Ensure all IPT work products are completed in accordance with the project plan, statement of work, CDRLs, and applicable requirements, and are delivered on cost and on schedule.
  • Define and maintain Integrated Master Schedule (IMS) tasks required to execute the IPT scope and achieve program milestones.
  • Act as Control Account Manager (CAM) for assigned control accounts, including planning, tracking, and reporting of cost and schedule performance.
  • Lead external stakeholder engagement for the IPT scope, including frequent collaboration with customers, subcontractors, and mission partners.
  • Contribute to program design and readiness reviews.
  • Using traditional and Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) approaches lead and contribute to the development all SE work products which may include:
    • CONOPS
    • System Architecture
    • Requirements and Interface Control Documents
    • Mission and System Analysis
    • Trade Studies
  • Drive continuous improvement in systems engineering processes, tools, and practices to enhance efficiency, quality, and reuse.
  • Support internal research and development and new business opportunities as needed.
  • Perform other duties as assigned or required.

We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.
Job Qualifications
  • Typically requires a bachelors degree, masters degree or PhD in engineering or a related technical discipline from an accredited institution and progressive engineering experience as follows; nine or more years of experience with a bachelors degree, seven or more years of experience with a masters degree, or four or more years with a PhD. May substitute equivalent engineering experience in lieu of education.
  • Demonstrates extensive technical expertise and application of engineering principles, concepts, theory, and practice with the ability to organize, plan, schedule, conduct, and coordinate workloads to meet established deadlines or milestones with some experience in project leadership.
  • Strong communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills are required enabling an effective leadership interface with other departments, all levels of management, professional and support staff, customers, potential customers, and government representatives.
  • Prior space domain experience which may include space vehicles or satellite ground systems, is desired.
  • Familiarity with the following tools is desired: Cameo or Magic Draw, DOORS, Atlassian (JIRA, Confluence).
  • Customer focused, must be able to work on a self-initiated basis and in a team environment, and able to work extended hours and travel as required.
  • Must have active TS clearance and be able to obtain and maintain TS/SCI security clearance.

What General Atomics employees say

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About General Atomics

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

General Atomics (GA), and its affiliated companies, is one of the world's leading resources for high-technology systems development ranging from the nuclear fuel cycle to remotely piloted aircraft, airborne sensors, and advanced electric, electronic, wireless and laser technologies.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

San Diego, CA, US

Year founded

1955