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Systems Engineering Manager Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Koniag, Inc.

Systems Engineering Lead

Washington, DC · On-site

$145K - $180K/yr

The Systems Engineering Lead will serve as the principal systems engineering authority for large ... Manage comprehensive requirements traceability from statutory mandates (such as Title 13) through ...

kgs

Systems Engineering Lead

Washington, DC

The Systems Engineering Lead will serve as the principal systems engineering authority for large ... Manage comprehensive requirements traceability from statutory mandates (such as Title 13) through ...

kgs

Systems Engineering Lead

Washington, DC

The Systems Engineering Lead will serve as the principal systems engineering authority for large ... Manage comprehensive requirements traceability from statutory mandates (such as Title 13) through ...

Peraton

Senior Manager, Systems Engineering

Herndon, VA · On-site

$135K - $216K/yr

Responsibilities The Senior Manager, Systems Engineering provides leadership to a team of engineers and professional staff in developing, modifying, creating, and testing solutions to our client ...

Peraton

Senior Manager, Systems Engineering

Herndon, VA · On-site

$135K - $216K/yr

Responsibilities The Senior Manager, Systems Engineering provides leadership to a team of engineers and professional staff in developing, modifying, creating, and testing solutions to our client ...

BAE Systems

Mgr I- Eng

Rockville, MD · On-site

$132K - $226K/yr

BAE Systems is seeking an Engineering Manager to support our work as a prime contractor on a high-profile U.S. Navy weapon system. The ideal candidate will be someone who can lead a team of four to ...

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Systems Engineering Manager information

See Washington salary details

$68.5K

$160.9K

$222K

How much do systems engineering manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for systems engineering manager in Washington is $160,908.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $129,100.00 and $195,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Systems Engineering Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Systems Engineering Manager, you need a solid background in systems engineering principles, project management experience, and typically a degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with systems modeling tools (such as SysML), requirements management software, and relevant industry certifications like INCOSE CSEP are often required. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills help you effectively guide teams and collaborate with stakeholders. These skills and qualities are essential to ensure project success, technical excellence, and seamless integration of complex systems.

What are some common challenges faced by Systems Engineering Managers, and how can they be addressed?

Systems Engineering Managers often navigate challenges such as coordinating multidisciplinary teams, ensuring clear communication across departments, and balancing technical leadership with project management duties. They may also face difficulties in aligning system requirements with organizational goals and managing resource constraints. To address these, effective managers foster open communication, implement structured processes for requirement management, and prioritize continuous training for their teams. Building strong relationships with stakeholders and promoting a culture of collaboration can also help overcome these challenges.

What does a Systems Engineering Manager do?

A Systems Engineering Manager oversees a team of engineers responsible for designing, integrating, and maintaining complex systems within an organization. They coordinate project activities, ensure technical requirements are met, and manage resources to deliver efficient solutions. Additionally, they serve as a liaison between engineering teams and other departments, helping to translate business needs into technical specifications. Their role often involves mentoring staff, managing budgets, and ensuring projects are completed on time and within scope.

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

AspectSystems Engineering ManagerSystems Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Engineering, PMP or similar certifications often preferredBachelor's degree in Engineering, relevant technical certifications
Work EnvironmentLeads teams, manages projects, oversees system developmentDesigns, develops, tests systems, works on technical tasks
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in tech, aerospace, defense, and manufacturing companiesCommon in similar industries, often as technical staff
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding managerial roles, leadership responsibilitiesTechnical skills, system design, implementation

The main difference between a Systems Engineering Manager and a Systems Engineer lies in their roles and responsibilities. The manager oversees teams and projects, focusing on leadership and strategic planning, while the engineer concentrates on technical system development and implementation. Both roles require relevant engineering credentials and are vital in industries like aerospace, defense, and technology.

What are popular job titles related to Systems Engineering Manager jobs in Washington? For Systems Engineering Manager jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Systems Engineering Manager jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Systems Engineering Manager jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Systems Engineering Manager jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Systems Engineering Manager job openings:
Systems Engineering Manager jobs near you
Systems Engineer Manager

Systems Engineer Manager

Science Applications International Corporation

Chantilly, VA • On-site

Other

Posted 12 days ago

SAIC rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 78 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

70th of 204 rated it services

Job description

Join a winning team!! SAIC is currently hiring to advance space capabilities supporting our Department of Defense (DOD) and Intelligence Community customers. Ten miles from the SAIC headquarters, our Chantilly, VA team supports systems development, targeting & intelligence analysis, systems engineering & integration and more.

This position is for a Satellite System Engineering Manager for a large, multi-year contract supporting cutting-edge and innovative space programs. The Satellite System Engineering Manager leads a proven technical team of system engineers and satellite subject matter experts. In partnership with the SAIC Program Management Team, the Satellite System Engineering Manager is a servant leader that guides the team's support to multiple satellite programs, relays guidance from the PM, and serves as the voice of the team to improve culture. The Satellite System Engineering Manager also directly supports multiple satellite missions providing system engineering expertise through the system's lifecycle.

Role Responsibilities:

  • Be a servant leader to a team of 8-10 satellite system engineers. Be the voice of the team, collaborate with Govt and SETA mission leadership to apply staff to critical SE and SME roles across multiple satellite missions, and implement PM guidance to execute the program.
  • Develop decision briefings for senior leadership reflecting deep analysis of alternative views and options. Facilitate meetings with SMEs across the program to collect input.
  • Collaborate with customers to develop and implement systems by providing technical oversight and satellite system engineering expertise throughout the project lifecycle ensuring alignment with mission objectives and timelines.
  • Oversee prime contractors' development and ensure systems meet customer requirements, risk tolerance, budget, and schedule, while assessing technical solutions and recommending Courses of Action (COA).
  • Work closely with a multidisciplinary team including hardware and software, to ensure system integration and mission success. Foster communication and alignment among team members to identify challenges and corresponding solutions.
  • Evaluate prime contractor performance at milestone reviews by analyzing compliance with technical requirements, and quality of deliverables. Offer recommendations to improve project outcomes and likelihood of success.
  • Identify and manage risks throughout the systems engineering lifecycle by conducting risk assessments, developing mitigation strategies, and monitoring potential impacts on mission objectives.
SAIC is a premier mission integrator focused on advancing the power of technology and innovation to serve and protect our world. Our robust portfolio of offerings across the defense, space, intelligence, and civilian markets includes secure high-end solutions in mission IT, enterprise IT, engineering services, and professional services. We integrate emerging technology, rapidly and securely, into mission critical operations that modernize and enable critical national imperatives.

We are approximately 23,000 strong; driven by mission, united by purpose, and inspired by opportunities. SAIC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, SAIC has annual revenues of approximately $7.3 billion. For more information, visit saic.com. For ongoing news, please visit our newsroom.
  • Must possess an active TS/SCI clearance with Polygraph.
  • Experience with the Intelligence Community and/or the Department of Defense Program Office best practices.
  • Bachelors and 14 years of relevant experience; OR Masters and 12 years of relevant experience.
  • At least 6 years experience working on a Government or Commercial satellite program as a lead system engineer or subject matter expert.
  • 3 years experience as a manager supervising staff including coordinating with Contract PM and Corporate leadership.
  • Effective interpersonal skills (across multiple groups, offices, and organizations) and strong briefing and writing skills. 
  • Ability to facilitate technical discussions with SMEs.
  • Ability to communicate to a diverse audience of senior decision makers with varying levels of programmatic and technical expertise.
  • Effective communication, coordination, and customer engagement skills.
  • Ability to work in a fast paced, dynamic, and team environment with no supervision.

Desired Qualifications:

  • PMI PMP or DAWIA Level 3+ certification. Project Management Institute (PMI) Project Management Professional (PMP) and/or Defense Acquisition Workforce Improvement Act (DAWIA) Program Management Level III+ certifications.
  • Government or Commercial experience as a COTR, PM, PEM or acquisition leader.

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