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System Engineer Phd Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Sr. Space Systems Engineer

Englewood, CO · On-site

$103K - $141K/yr

GA-EMS' expanding portfolio of specialized products and integrated system solutions support ... Typically requires a bachelors degree, masters degree or PhD in engineering or a related technical ...

Senior Systems Engineer

Colorado Springs, CO · Hybrid

$103K - $141K/yr

... engineering, system integration and project management services for real-time, mission-critical ... experience with a PhD in STEM • Applicants must have a current active in-scope DoD Secret ...

Senior Systems Engineer

Colorado Springs, CO · Hybrid

$103K - $141K/yr

... engineering, system integration and project management services for real-time, mission-critical ... experience with a PhD in STEM • Applicants must have a current active in-scope DoD Secret ...

Systems Engineer

Boulder, CO · On-site

$120K - $145K/yr

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

Systems Engineer

Boulder, CO · On-site

$120K - $145K/yr

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

Systems Engineer

Boulder, CO · On-site

$120K - $145K/yr

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

Showing results 21-40

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 2, 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.

Systems Integration & Test Engineer

asrcfh

Colorado Springs, CO

$164K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago


ASRC Federal rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 28 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

243rd of 450 rated engineering


Job description

Description

ASRC Federal System Solutions, LLC (AFSS), a subsidiary of ASRC Federal, is a premier provider of systems engineering, software engineering, systems integration, engineering, and program management services supporting mission-critical national security and defense programs.

AFSS is seeking a Systems Integration & Test Engineer to support the Deep Space Advanced Radar Capability (DARC) Program in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

The selected candidate will be responsible for planning, developing, and executing end-to-end system integration and verification activities for a next-generation radar capability. This role focuses on software-intensive integration and test, ensuring system requirements are fully verified through structured testing, detailed documentation, and collaboration across multiple engineering disciplines.

The successful candidate will work closely with systems, software, hardware, network, cybersecurity, and program engineering teams to develop formal verification procedures, execute integration testing, resolve technical issues, and support customer acceptance of system capabilities.

Job Duties Include

  • Develop and execute system integration and test activities supporting software and hardware verification.
  • Create, maintain, and execute detailed test plans, test procedures, verification procedures, and test reports.
  • Develop formal requirements verification procedures to support customer acceptance testing.
  • Support subsystem and system integration activities, including troubleshooting, fault isolation, and resolution of hardware and software issues.
  • Verify system performance against technical requirements and document verification results.
  • Maintain requirements traceability and verification documentation within the program requirements management system.
  • Review system engineering documentation to ensure test methodologies are complete, accurate, and aligned with program objectives.
  • Participate in integration planning, test readiness reviews, and formal test events.
  • Support development of integration scenarios and verification strategies for software and hardware components.
  • Analyze test results, document discrepancies, and work with engineering teams to resolve technical issues.
  • Contribute to the development and implementation of automated test capabilities and continuous integration practices.
  • Participate in engineering peer reviews to ensure technical quality and compliance with program standards.
  • Collaborate effectively across Integrated Product Teams (IPTs) while supporting program schedules and customer milestones.
  • Provide technical recommendations and status updates to program leadership.

Basic Qualifications

  • Active DoD Top Secret Security Clearance with the ability to obtain and maintain SCI eligibility.
  • U.S. Citizenship required.
  • Bachelor's degree in Systems Engineering, Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical discipline with a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience; Master's degree with 3 years of experience; or PhD with 1 year of experience. Additional years of applicable experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.
  • Experience developing requirements verification procedures for software-intensive systems.
  • Experience executing formal system or software verification testing.
  • Experience developing test documentation, including test plans, procedures, and test reports.
  • Experience supporting system integration and troubleshooting activities.
  • Strong understanding of systems engineering principles and system verification methodologies.
  • Experience working in cross-functional engineering teams.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.
  • Ability to travel up to 30%, including CONUS and international locations.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience supporting Department of Defense or U.S. Space Force programs.
  • Experience integrating complex hardware and software systems.
  • Experience with radar systems, missile defense, space surveillance, or satellite operations.
  • Experience supporting Integration and Test/Checkout (I&T/IATC) activities.
  • Experience developing Modeling and Simulation (M&S) scenarios to support integration and testing.
  • Experience documenting integration activities, deficiencies, corrective actions, and verification results.
  • Experience supporting international integration or field test activities.
  • Knowledge of Agile software development methodologies and DevSecOps environments.
  • Experience with automated test frameworks or test automation tools.
  • Familiarity with requirements management tools such as IBM DOORS or equivalent.
  • Experience with Atlassian tools including Jira and Confluence.
  • Familiarity with C++ software development or software integration.
  • Experience integrating large-scale ground processing, command and control, or radar systems.
  • CompTIA Security+ or Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP) certification.

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