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Systems Engineering Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Umbra

Systems Engineering Manager

Reston, VA · On-site

As Systems Engineering Manager, you will collaborate with systems, hardware, and software teams, along with senior technical leadership, to drive the development of new technologies while fostering ...

Umbra

Systems Engineering Manager

Arlington, VA · On-site

As Systems Engineering Manager, you will collaborate with systems, hardware, and software teams, along with senior technical leadership, to drive the development of new technologies while fostering ...

Umbra

Systems Engineering Manager

Reston, VA · On-site

As Systems Engineering Manager, you will collaborate with systems, hardware, and software teams, along with senior technical leadership, to drive the development of new technologies while fostering ...

BWXT

Systems Engineering Manager

Lynchburg, VA

As our Systems Engineering Manager, you will lead a dynamic and growing team of approximately 12 Systems Engineers at our Advanced Technologies office in Lynchburg, Virginia. This position offers ...

BWX Technologies

Systems Engineering Manager

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

$99K - $157K/yr

As our Systems Engineering Manager, you will lead a dynamic and growing team of approximately 12 Systems Engineers at our Advanced Technologies office in Lynchburg, Virginia. This position offers ...

Booz Allen Hamilton

Systems Engineering Lead

Mclean, VA

$99K - $225K/yr

Systems Engineering Lead The Opportunity: Are you looking for an opportunity to combine your technical skills with big picture thinking to make an impact in national security? You understand your ...

Peraton

Systems Engineering Advisor

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$146K - $234K/yr

Responsibilities The ideal Systems Engineer will possess the knowledge and technical expertise to support the team during the entire Systems Engineering life cycle. We are seeking a forward leaning ...

Peraton

Systems Engineering Advisor

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$146K - $234K/yr

Responsibilities The ideal Systems Engineer will possess the knowledge and technical expertise to support the team during the entire Systems Engineering life cycle. We are seeking a forward leaning ...

Peraton

Systems Engineering Advisor

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$146K - $234K/yr

Responsibilities The ideal Systems Engineer will possess the knowledge and technical expertise to support the team during the entire Systems Engineering life cycle. We are seeking a forward leaning ...

Lockheed Martin

Systems Engineering Lead

Herndon, VA · On-site

You will be System Engineering Lead with regular collaboration of a broad group of partnered IC stakeholders at the program and enterprise level. As a Systems Engineering Lead, you will be ...

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All JobsSystems Engineering JobsSystems Engineering Jobs in Virginia

Systems Engineering information

See Virginia salary details

$60K

$140.9K

$194.3K

How much do systems engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for systems engineering in Virginia is $140,851.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $113,000.00 and $171,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a Systems Engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during a project lifecycle?

Systems Engineers play a pivotal role in bridging various departments such as software, hardware, and project management throughout the project lifecycle. They facilitate communication by translating technical requirements between teams, ensuring that all components integrate seamlessly. Regular meetings, documentation reviews, and design sessions are common, and Systems Engineers often serve as mediators to resolve technical conflicts or dependencies. This collaborative environment helps deliver robust and scalable solutions that meet both business and technical goals.

What is systems engineering?

Systems engineering is an interdisciplinary field that focuses on designing, integrating, and managing complex systems throughout their life cycles. It involves coordinating various engineering disciplines and specialties to ensure that all parts of a project work together efficiently to meet customer needs. Systems engineers use principles from engineering, management, and mathematics to address both the technical and organizational aspects of a project, from initial concept through development, deployment, and maintenance.

What is the difference between Systems Engineering vs Mechanical Engineering?

AspectSystems EngineeringMechanical Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Systems Engineering, Electrical, or related fields; often certifications like INCOSEBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering; often PE licensure
Work EnvironmentProject teams, systems integration, interdisciplinary collaborationDesign labs, manufacturing, product development
Industry UsageTechnology, aerospace, defense, ITAutomotive, manufacturing, robotics
Common Search/ComparisonYesNo

Systems Engineering focuses on designing and managing complex systems across various disciplines, emphasizing integration and lifecycle management. Mechanical Engineering centers on designing and manufacturing mechanical devices and systems. While both roles require engineering degrees, their focus areas, work environments, and industry applications differ significantly.

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

To thrive as a Systems Engineer, you need a solid background in systems architecture, integration, and problem-solving, often supported by a degree in engineering, computer science, or a related field. Familiarity with tools like MATLAB, SysML, and requirements management software, as well as certifications such as INCOSE CSEP, are commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, effective communication, and teamwork are essential soft skills to excel in multidisciplinary environments. These competencies ensure the efficient design, implementation, and maintenance of complex systems that meet organizational goals.
What are the most commonly searched types of Systems Engineering jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Systems Engineering jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Systems Engineering jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Systems Engineering job openings:
Systems Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Systems Engineering job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $140,851 per year, or $67.7 per hour.
Systems Engineering Manager

Systems Engineering Manager

Umbra

Reston, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Umbra is an American space technology company delivering advanced systems, from sensors to spacecraft, that empower customers worldwide with unmatched access to critical information from space. Our mission is simple and ambitious: redefine space-for people, systems, and missions in every domain. Umbra's ecosystem operates through three business units: Remote Sensing (the data), Space Systems (the components), and Mission Solutions (the platforms). Together, our teams develop capabilities that deliver persistent access, resilient performance, and mission-ready solutions, advancing U.S. space leadership while keeping the world safe and informed.
About the Team
Mission Solutions - The Platforms
Mission Solutions builds on Umbra's expertise in remote sensing and spacecraft operations to engineer platforms purpose-built for U.S. and allied defense and intelligence missions. Whether it's a custom payload, a full-stack spacecraft, or the infrastructure behind an entire constellation, our team delivers secure, resilient systems tailored to exacting requirements and built on timelines that match the urgency of the mission.
If you want to work on cutting-edge space technology that's redefining what's possible in remote sensing, you belong here at Umbra.
About the JobUmbra is seeking a Systems Engineering Manager to lead the Mission Solutions Systems Engineering group. This individual will oversee the engineers who architect, design, build, test, and operate Umbra's advanced satellite and space mission technology.
As Systems Engineering Manager, you will collaborate with systems, hardware, and software teams, along with senior technical leadership, to drive the development of new technologies while fostering the growth and success of a talented engineering team. You will provide functional leadership through coaching, mentoring, performance management, career development, and workforce planning, helping engineers grow both technically and professionally.
The Systems Engineering Manager will lead our mission architects, mission designers, and systems engineers throughout the program lifecycle-from early concept and mission definition through delivery to our customers. You will partner closely with Program Management and technical leadership to ensure alignment across technical execution, program objectives, and team development, enabling successful mission outcomes.
This position is based on-site in either our Arlington, VA office or Reston, VA office.
Key Responsibilities
  • Establish & maintain systems engineering technical excellence within Mission Solutions.
  • Lead, contribute, and support the systems engineering group through the full program lifecycle.
  • Contribute and review proposal submissions for accuracy in technical content.
  • Functional management of technical staff includes:
    • Coordinating and reporting on departmental efforts.
    • Conducting regular one-on-one meetings and performance reviews.
    • Guiding the professional development and career planning of mission solutions engineers.
    • Manage workload, assignments, support, and conflict resolution for team members.
    • Ensuring compliance with legal regulations, security standards, and company policies.
    • Identifying opportunities for process improvements and implementing changes to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.
  • Program staffing forecasts and recruiting:
    • Collaborate with stakeholders on headcount planning and hiring.
    • Work closely with project and technical leads to understand the scope of work, ensuring high-quality and efficient execution.
  • Develop resource basis of estimates for proposals and department growth.
  • Use agile practices to support sprint planning, track progress, and manage individual performance.
  • Other professional duties as assigned.

Requirements
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree in engineering or a related STEM field.
  • 8+ years of professional experience in systems engineering or a related field, with 3+ years of professional experience in direct personnel management.
  • 3+ years of professional experience in space mission systems engineering.
  • 3+ years of professional experience managing complex technical projects from planning through execution.
  • Demonstrated experience leading engineering teams, including hiring, performance management, career development, succession planning, workload allocation, and accountability for technical quality and schedule performance.
  • Excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate across cross-functional teams.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government security clearance. Applicants must be U.S. citizens to obtain and maintain a security clearance.
Desired Qualifications
  • 10+ years of professional experience in systems engineering or a related field, with 7+ years of experience in direct personnel management.
  • 5+ years of professional experience managing complex technical projects from planning through execution.
  • 5+ years of experience in space mission systems engineering.
  • Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, collaborative, and dynamic environment.
  • Experience with agile project management practices and tools, such as scrum, SAFe and Jira.
  • Experience with traditional project management practices and tools, such as critical path analysis, resource loading and MS Project.
  • Experience with the full program lifecycle including systems engineering, software, and hardware deliverables.

Benefits
  • Flexible Time Off, Sick, Family & Medical Leave
  • Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, LTD, STD (employer funded)
  • Vol Life, Critical Illness, Accidental, Hospital Indemnity, Pet Insurance (employee funded)
  • 401k with 3% non-elective company contribution
  • Stock Options
  • Free parking
  • Free lunch in office daily

Umbra is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate in hiring on the basis of sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religious creed, national origin, physical or mental disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions requiring an active U.S. Government security clearance or the ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance.
Employment Eligibility Verification
In compliance with federal laws, all hired persons will be required to verify their identity and eligibility to work in the United States by completing the required Employment Eligibility Verification Form (I-9 Form) upon hire.
ITAR/EAR Requirements
This position may include access to technology and/or data that is subject to U.S. export controls pursuant to ITAR and EAR. To comply with federal export controls, all persons hired must be a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, U.S. lawful permanent resident, refugee or asylee as defined by 8 U.S.C. § 1324b(a)(3), or must otherwise be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or U.S. Department of Commerce as applicable.
Pay Transparency
This job posting may cover multiple career levels. To ensure greater transparency, we provide base salary ranges for all roles, regardless of location. Our standard pay ranges are based on the role's function and level, benchmarked against similar growth-stage companies. Compensation may vary based on geographical location, as certain regions may have different cost-of-living factors. The final offer will also be influenced by the candidate's skills, responsibilities, and relevant experience.
Compensation Range
The Compensation Range for this role is $185,000 - $225,000 DOE.

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