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How much do systems engineering consultant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for systems engineering consultant in Virginia is $62.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39.09 and $76.49 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a systems engineering consultant?

Systems Engineering Consultants are professionals who provide expert advice and solutions for designing, integrating, and managing complex systems throughout their life cycles. They work with organizations to ensure that all components of a system—hardware, software, processes, and people—work together efficiently and effectively. Their responsibilities often include requirements analysis, system architecture design, risk management, and process improvement. Systems Engineering Consultants typically collaborate with stakeholders across various departments to deliver projects on time and within budget.

How does a systems engineering consultant typically collaborate with clients and cross-functional teams during a project?

As a Systems Engineering Consultant, you will frequently act as a bridge between clients and internal technical teams. You'll gather and analyze client requirements, facilitate design review meetings, and ensure that proposed solutions align with both business objectives and technical feasibility. Collaboration often involves regular communication, documentation, and iterative feedback sessions to address evolving needs and troubleshoot challenges. This role requires strong interpersonal skills and adaptability, as you'll be working closely with stakeholders from diverse backgrounds to drive project success.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a systems engineering consultant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Systems Engineering Consultant, you need strong analytical abilities, expertise in systems integration, and a relevant degree in engineering or computer science. Familiarity with modeling tools like MATLAB, SysML, and requirements management software, as well as certifications such as INCOSE CSEP, are often required. Excellent communication, project management, and problem-solving skills help you collaborate with stakeholders and deliver effective solutions. These skills ensure you can design, implement, and optimize complex systems to meet client needs and industry standards.

What is the difference between Systems Engineering Consultant vs Systems Engineer?

AspectSystems Engineering ConsultantSystems Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's or master's in engineering, certifications like INCOSE CSEP are commonUsually holds a bachelor's or master's in systems or electrical engineering, certifications like INCOSE CSEP are beneficial
Work EnvironmentConsults with multiple clients, often project-based, in various industriesWorks within an organization on designing, developing, and maintaining systems
Employer & IndustryConsulting firms, defense, aerospace, IT, government agenciesCorporations, government agencies, defense, aerospace, manufacturing

While both roles require similar credentials and industry knowledge, Systems Engineering Consultants focus on providing expert advice across multiple projects and clients, whereas Systems Engineers work within organizations to develop and maintain specific systems.

Do systems engineering consultants make a lot of money?

Systems engineering consultants typically earn competitive salaries that vary based on experience, location, and industry. They often have specialized skills in systems design, integration, and project management, which can lead to higher compensation, especially with certifications like INCOSE or PMP. Overall, the role can be financially rewarding compared to many other engineering positions.

What are popular job titles related to Systems Engineering Consultant jobs in Virginia?

For Systems Engineering Consultant jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Systems Engineering Consultant jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Systems Engineering Consultant jobs in Virginia are:

Systems Engineering Consultant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Systems Engineering Consultant job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,690 per year, or $62.8 per hour.

Strategic Consultant - Systems Engineering

Systems Planning and Analysis

Alexandria, VA • On-site

$125K - $145K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Overview
Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. (SPA) delivers high-impact, technical solutions to complex national security issues. With over 50 years of business expertise and consistent growth, we are known for continuous innovation for our government customers, in both the US and abroad. Our exceptionally talented team is highly collaborative in spirit and practice, producing Results that Matter. Come work with the best! We offer opportunity, unique challenges, and clear-sighted commitment to the mission. SPA: Objective. Responsive. Trusted.
The Joint, Office of the Secretary of War, Interagency Division (JOID) provides expert support services to a range of customers spanning across the Department of Defense, Federal Civilian, and international markets. JOID provides a diverse portfolio of analytical and programmatic capabilities to help our customers make informed decisions on their most challenging issues.
The Critical Infrastructure Group (CIG) within JOID provides technical, programmatic, and analytical support to customers with missions in national security, including the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Health and Human Services (HHS), and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The Group brings technical and operational expertise in fields such as countering weapons of mass destruction, critical infrastructure protection, emergency response, and transportation safety.
We have a near-term need for a Strategy Advisor to assist with systems engineering (SE) and testing and evaluation (T&E) programs in support of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The primary place of performance will be at SPA Headquarters in Alexandria, VA with regular visits to customer sites in VA and DC.
Responsibilities
The Strategy Advisor provides strategic guidance in a specialized functional area. This involves advising on strategic direction and the use of current industry standards and innovative solutions, based on deep knowledge of the latest developments in the field. The role influences the objectives of complex programs or projects by offering clear vision to project managers and senior leadership, and by guiding functional procedures, processes, and policies. It may also include leading in-depth research to support studies and analyses.
Qualifications
Required:
  • Master's degree or equivalent credits/certifications.
  • 3+ years of strategic guidance experience and background in systems engineering.
  • Understanding of the Systems Engineering Lifecycle and industry standards and best practices.
  • Proven ability to communicate effectively, both in written and verbal formats, with diverse stakeholders.
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with a demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities independently.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office tools (Excel, PowerPoint, Word).
  • Active Secret clearance with ability to obtain DHS Suitability.

Desired:
  • DHS Systems Engineering Level 2, DAWIA Engineering and Technical Management Practitioner Level 2/3, and/or INCOSE certification(s).
  • Experience in providing assistance to program planning and oversight, exercise, development, execution and evaluation; system level analysis; system integration support inclusive of understanding of threats and vulnerability; technical assessment & evaluation to support and complement the Government's technical experts in applying both acquisition efforts and RDT&E towards accomplishing the DHS mission.
  • Prior experience supporting DHS programs.
  • Active DHS Suitability.

At SPA, we strive to deliver a robust total compensation package that will attract and retain top talent. Elements of the compensation package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities. SPA provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and a number of programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work. The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, etc.
Please note that the salary information shown below is a general guideline only. Salaries are commensurate with experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
VA Pay Transparency Salary range: $125k-$145K
Pay Range Information
At SPA, we strive to deliver a robust total compensation package that will attract and retain top talent. Elements of the compensation package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities. SPA provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and a number of programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work. The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, etc. Please note that the salary information shown below is a general guideline only. Salaries are commensurate with experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations. Virginia, Pay Transparency Salary range: USD $125,000.00/Yr. - USD $145,000.00/Yr.

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