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System Engineer Phd Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Senior System Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$108K - $147K/yr

Senior System Engineer Senior System Engineers to provide SETA (Systems Engineering & Technical ... PhD preferred) * Active Top Secret SCI with CI Poly or the ability to get a CI Poly after hire ...

Senior System Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$108K - $147K/yr

Senior System Engineer Senior System Engineers to provide SETA (Systems Engineering & Technical ... PhD preferred) * Active Top Secret SCI with CI Poly or the ability to get a CI Poly after hire ...

As a Home Prototyping System Engineer, you will be responsible for the electrical definition and ... MS or PhD in electrical engineering or similar fieldExperience leading teams through product ...

A PhD in a Qualified Engineering Field or a related discipline from an accredited college or university may be substituted for three (3) years of systems engineering experience. \n \n \n \n \n \n

Requires 5 to 8 years with BS/BA or 3 to 5 years with MS/MA or 0 to 2 years with PhD. * Bachelor's degree in Systems Engineering or in related technical or scientific fields such as engineering ...

Requires 5 to 8 years with BS/BA or 3 to 5 years with MS/MA or 0 to 2 years with PhD. * Bachelor's degree in Systems Engineering or in related technical or scientific fields such as engineering ...

Senior System Engineer

Fremont, CA · On-site

$145K - $170K/yr

MS or PhD in Physics or relevant engineering field with more than 5-10 years of experience in ... Ability to develop and validate end to end system models for complex mapping of multidimensional ...

... PhD and sixteen (16) years of experience, or twenty-four (24) years of systems engineering ... experience with no degree. The Benefits Package * Wyetech believes in generously supporting ...

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System Engineer Phd information

See salary details

$53.5K

$127.2K

$167K

How much do system engineer phd jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for system engineer phd in the United States is $127,215.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $98,000.00 and $157,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, petroleum engineering, and aerospace engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High compensation often involves working in high-demand industries, managing large projects, or holding executive-level responsibilities.

What can I do with a PhD in systems engineering?

A PhD in systems engineering prepares individuals for advanced roles in research, development, and consulting across industries such as aerospace, defense, manufacturing, and technology. Graduates often work as systems engineers, research scientists, or technical consultants, utilizing skills in modeling, simulation, and systems integration. They may also pursue academic careers or leadership positions requiring expertise in complex system design and analysis.

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 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 System Engineer PhDs?

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 engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, systems engineering, or electrical engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High compensation often involves working in high-demand industries like technology, aerospace, or finance, and may include bonuses, stock options, or other incentives.

Is a PhD worth it in engineering?

A PhD in engineering can enhance a system engineer's expertise, research skills, and qualifications for specialized roles or academia. However, it often requires significant time and financial investment, and may not be necessary for all engineering positions, which typically value practical experience and certifications. The decision depends on career goals and the specific industry sector.
More about System Engineer Phd jobs
What cities are hiring for System Engineer Phd jobs? Cities with the most System Engineer Phd job openings:
What states have the most System Engineer Phd jobs? States with the most job openings for System Engineer Phd jobs include:
What job categories do people searching System Engineer Phd jobs look for? The top searched job categories for System Engineer Phd jobs are:
Infographic showing various System Engineer Phd job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 25% Full Time, 68% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $127,215 per year, or $61.2 per hour.
Senior System Engineer

Senior System Engineer

Momentum

Chantilly, VA • On-site

$108K - $147K/yr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Salary:

Welcome to the MOMENTUM Family!

MOMENTUM is not just our company name; it is the highest value we deliver to our customers. We are a rapidly growing technology solutions company delivering innovative technology, engineering, and intelligence solutions across the DoD sector. The efforts of our high-capacity team ultimately strengthen our Nation and the warfighter.


Our team is dispersed throughout the US, which means we value the diversity and unique collaboration that's fostered throughout our team. We work incredibly hard for our customers and believe deeply in our core values. We're a high-energy, high-growth team and we love to win.


Senior System Engineer
Senior System Engineers to provide SETA (Systems Engineering & Technical Assistance) support to a government program office responsible for the development and deployment of a space-based Air Moving Target Indicator (AMTI) system.
This role places you at the center of a high-visibility, fast-paced program, working directly with government leadership and industry partners to ensure mission success. You will provide independent technical assessment, systems engineering expertise, and mission-focused insight across the full lifecycle from design through launch and early operations.
If you're a technically strong engineer who thrives in a government advisory role, understands how to bridge government and industry, and wants to contribute to a next-generation space-based radar mission, we encourage you to apply.
In this role, you will:

  • Provide independent technical assessment of contractor designs, architectures, and performance
  • Support systems engineering lifecycle activities, including requirements development, design reviews, integration, test, and verification
  • Evaluate radar payload performance, modeling, and system-level trade studies
  • Assess RF hardware development and production testing
  • Support Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) and digital engineering efforts, including system performance modeling and multi-sensor integration
  • Analyze and validate end-to-end mission performance (sensor, ground, processing, dissemination)
  • Participate in and support major program design reviews
  • Provide technical risk identification and mitigation recommendations to government leadership
  • Develop and deliver briefings and decision support materials for senior stakeholders
  • Collaborate with government and contractor teams using tools such as Cameo, Tableau, and Confluence


If you're suitable for this role, you have:

  • Bachelors degree in aerospace engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, or related technical field (Masters or PhD preferred)
  • Active Top Secret SCI with CI Poly or the ability to get a CI Poly after hire
  • 10+ years of experience in aerospace, space systems, or defense programs
  • Demonstrated experience across the full system lifecycle (requirements, design, integration, test, and operations)
  • Strong background in space-based ISR systems, radar systems, or RF payloads
  • Experience with one or more of the following:
    • Radar system design or radar signal processing
    • RF payload development and production testing
    • Performance modeling and estimation (e.g., detection, tracking, coverage)
    • Mission data processing or ground system architectures
  • Experience with Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) and SysML tools (e.g., Cameo/MagicDraw)
  • Ability to assess contractor technical performance and provide independent recommendations
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, including experience briefing senior leadership


Preferred Additional Skills and Qualifications

  • Prior experience supporting a government program office (SETA or similar role)
  • Familiarity with DoD/IC acquisition processes (JCIDS, DoD 5000 series)
  • Experience working with prime contractors and major subcontractors
  • Background in:
    • Satellite and payload engineering
    • Communications systems and architectures
    • Crypto integration in space systems
    • Multi-sensor integration and data fusion
  • Experience supporting:
    • Integration & test campaigns
    • Launch site operations and readiness reviews
    • Early orbit operations/commissioning
  • Proficiency with tools such as:
    • Cameo/MagicDraw
    • Tableau
    • Confluence, Jira, DOORS
    • Python, MATLAB, or similar analytical tools


To learn more about us, check out our website at www.gomomentum.tech!


MOMENTUM is an EEO/M/F/Veteran/Disabled Employer:
We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.


To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The qualifications listed above are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.


Accommodations:
Consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Alabama civil rights law, it is the policy of Momentum to provide reasonable accommodation when requested by a qualified applicant or employee with a disability, unless such accommodation would cause an undue hardship. The policy regarding requests for reasonable accommodation applies to all aspects of employment, including the application process. If reasonable accommodation is needed, please include request when applying.