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System Engineer Phd Jobs in Detroit, MI (NOW HIRING)

Sr Function Owner, Climate Systems

Novi, MI

$98K - $134K/yr

Responsible for system level definition and requirements for hardware, software, features ... engineering. PhD with 6+ years of experience preferred. * Extensive experience working with ...

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System Engineer Phd information

See Detroit, MI salary details

$53K

$125.9K

$165.3K

How much do system engineer phd jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for system engineer phd in Detroit, MI is $125,938.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,000.00 and $155,400.00 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 are popular job titles related to System Engineer Phd jobs in Detroit, MI?

For System Engineer Phd jobs in Detroit, MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Detroit, MI are hiring for System Engineer Phd jobs?

Cities near Detroit, MI with the most System Engineer Phd job openings:

Infographic showing various System Engineer Phd job openings in Detroit, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $125,938 per year, or $60.5 per hour.

System Engineer Calibration

Megan soft Inc

Dearborn, MI • On-site

Contractor

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

HI,
Job Title: Systems Engineer Calibration (Gasoline ICE/HEV/PHEV)
Location: Dearborn, MI
 
Note: Only W2
 
Job Description:
As an Advanced Emissions Systems Engineer, you will lead the concept definition, design, and integration of cutting-edge emissions systems for gasoline-powered Internal Combustion Engines (ICE), Hybrid (HEV), and Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) applications. Your primary focus will be developing hardware and software strategies to achieve the stringent regulatory standards, including SULEV20, SULEV15, and SULEV10. You will serve as a technical lead, balancing cross-functional trade-offs between mechanical, electrical, and chemical domains to deliver an optimized, durable propulsion system.
 
Skills Required:
Chemical Engineering, Quality Control, Electrical Engineering, System Integration, Project Management, Mechanical Engineering
1. Chemical Engineering – Ability to understand and communicate with team regarding exhaust gas chemical reactions
2. Quality Control – Statistical methods for data analysis
3. Electrical Engineering – Ability to understand electrical systems and needs for various engine control devices. Understanding of power distribution dn architecture, including 48v system concepts
4. System Integration – Higer level understanding of vehicle control system and electrical systems and ability to consider balances and tradeoffs for system level attributes and balancing the needs to for the entire vehicle in the context of emissions control
5. Project Management – Manage multiyear projects for vehicle system design and testing including managing parts procurement, test resource management and timing, and regular status reporting to management
6. Mechanical Engineering - Understanding of how vehicle engine and powertrain's function, from conventional ICE to various hybrid configurations.
 
Skills Preferred:
Performance Testing, Regulatory Affairs, Ford powertrain, Quality Control, Analytical Chemistry, Leadership, Data Modeling, Environmental Compliance, Project Planning, MATLAB modeling
1. Performance Testing – Conduct vehicle level, engine only, and powertrain testing to investigate, develop, and demonstrate emissions compliance with varied aftertreatment systems
2. Regulatory Affairs – Understanding of current emissions regulations, and familiarity with regulations, and ability to understand and adapt to emerging regulations
3. Ford powertrain – Understanding of current Ford powertrain offerings and various hybrid configurations from MHT, to PowerSplit to full EREV. Ability to adapt control strategy and calibration to different operating conditions of each powertrain configuration.
4. Quality Control
5. Analytical Chemistry – Understanding of chemical reactions in relation to aftertreatment echaust gas, NOx, HCs, CO, Sulfur, O2, etc.
6. Leadership – Self-motivated, able to develop a project from concept phase through development through to report out and conclusion phase.
7. Data Modeling – Experience with data analysis techniques and ability to model trends from large data sets. Use or create models to predict vehicle and emissions attribute performance during experiment definition phases
8. Environmental Compliance – Understanding of current and proposed future emissions regulations
9. Project Planning – Manage multiyear projects for vehicle system design and testing including managing parts procurement, test resource management and timing, and regular status reporting to management 10. MATLAB modeling - Matlab or equivalent (Python etc) to process large data sets and predict performance of engine and aftertreatment components
 
Experience Required:
• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related Systems Engineering field.
• 5+ years of experience in propulsion or emissions system design and integration.
• 3+ years of experience with Systems Engineering principles and quality tools (e.g., DFMEA, Boundary Diagrams, P-Diagrams).
• 1+ years of project management experience
 
Experience Preferred:
• Master’s degree or PhD in Engineering.
• Strong project management skills with the ability to coordinate complex technical workstreams.
• Direct experience with emissions regulations, compliance and testing.
• In-depth understanding of HEV/PHEV powertrain architectures and their specific impact on emissions (e.g., cold-start management, thermal transients).
• Experience leading cross-functional technical trade-offs in a high-volume production environment.
• Cross-domain familiarity with engine controls, mechanical packaging, and catalyst chemistry.
• Demonstrated experience with 1D modeling tools and methodology. (e.g., GT-Suite, MATLAB/Simulink)
 
Additional Information :
• System Design & Integration: Lead the definition and design of new emissions concepts, integrating hardware, controls, and packaging across the engine, transmission, generator, and aftertreatment systems.
• Cross-Functional Leadership: Coordinate subsystems and lead technical trade-off discussions across different engineering domains to achieve an optimized system-level solution.
• Project Management: Drive project milestones and workstream coordination using the Global Technical Development System (GTDS) to ensure timely delivery of project goals.
• Quality & Systems Engineering: Develop and maintain core systems engineering and quality documentation, including Boundary Diagrams, P-Diagrams, and Design Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (DFMEA).
• Requirements Management: Define attribute targets and cascade system/subsystem requirements, functions, and use cases to ensure compliance throughout the vehicle's full useful life.
 
Thanks & Regards,
Sr. Recruiter
Megan Soft, Inc.
17177 N. Laurel Park Dr; Suite #337 Livonia, MI -48152
Ph: 248-313-4099
msthakur@megansoft.com 
www.megansoft.com